Here are some tips for getting started with a new Mac and be instantly flexible.

Migrate Data from Backup

Even if all your files are stored in one or another cloud like iCloud, Dropbox, or Google Drive, your Mac applications, system and app preferences, and a handful of other things are not backed up to those places.

Therefore, with a new Mac in hand, it’s best to use Time Machine or a clone backup tool (SuperDuper! or Carbon Copy Cloner) to back up your old Mac. Then, as part of the Mac setup process, it’s dead simple to transfer your files.

If you’re switching from a PC, download Windows Migration Assistant and use Ethernet or Wi-Fi to migrate. Migration Assistant will offer to create an ad hoc network directly between the PC and Mac for the fastest direct wireless connection that doesn’t require your router or local network.

Key Apps, Updates & Preferences

Install the free Malwarebytes and scan your Mac every so often for malware. If you use Microsoft Office, you may need to reactivate the software. (Let me know if you can’t find your product key.)

If your new Mac didn’t come with the latest macOS, install software updates offered in System Preferences as well as those available from the App Store. Also, open the third party apps you use most to ensure they all look and work as expected, and to check for updates.

Open Mail and Photos to verify your libraries are up to date and ready for you to be productive. Also, connect your new Mac to Messages on your iPhone in Settings > Messages > Text Message Forwarding.

Update Your Backups

With everything new in place and running smoothly, run your backup routine, inheriting a Time Machine history as appropriate.

For users whose backup drives are always connected, I find it usually unnecessary to back up hourly (which is Time Machine’s habit). If you feel that fewer backups is appropriate for your workflow, use TimeMachineEditor to set Time Machine on a different periodicity.

Ditch Your Old Mac?

What will you do with your old Mac? Used Mac sales isn’t the easiest thing but maybe you can sell your Mac to a friend or family member or trade it in to Apple for a credit.

There are a handful of reputable online outlets as well as Craigslist and eBay, but none as easy to navigate as the above. Craigslist is a good way to gauge the value of a used Mac. Or, share the specs with me and I can help you estimate and choose a sales channel.

Apple will happily recycle any old Mac you have in your arsenal, recycling all but the storage in an environmentally friendly manner. Also, let me know if you need help preparing your Mac for sale.

If you’re wondering whether you should clean up your old Mac before or after migrating data, I think you’ll spend about the same total time either way. However, if your old Mac is incredibly slow, clean up second; or if your new Mac doesn’t have enough storage capacity for a full migration, clean up first.

As always, reach out to me for insight on any of the above.