Migrating to a new computer ...

[rlesperance]

Hello,

I am currently migrating an oldest IMAC (2013) to a more recent IMAC (2019). The Apple migration utility also copied my Dropbox files to the new computer (Dropbox / Mac / Documents).

Before joining my new computer with my Dropbox account, do I have to eliminate this data from the new computer, or will Dropbox know how to share things and check the data with their Dropbox version in the cloud?

Where can I find the instructions to start Dropbox following the migration to a new iMac?

Thanks in advance.

[Hannah]

Hey @rlesperance, thanks for posting on our Community and happy Monday!

Generally, when you set up a new computer, it's best to just download the Dropbox application and allow it to sync the files down to your computer by itself.

The migrated folder right now is just a normal folder on your computer, so it won't be syncing with your Dropbox. 

Once you download and install the application, Dropbox will sync your files as they appear in your Dropbox account.

Let me know if you have any questions!

[rlesperance]

Hello Hannah,

Thanks for your reply.

So I understand that by restoring my old computer files to the new one and by activating the Dropbox sync on the new iMac, Dropbox will verify all the existing files and update only what is needed.  There is no reason to first delete the restored files before launching the sync.

Am I correct ?

Robert Lespérance 

[Hannah]

No worries, Robert. 

Linking an already existing Dropbox folder to a new installation can be a tricky process, so I would definitely suggest you remove the migrated Dropbox folder. 

You don't need it at this point, since once you install the application, it will create a new, functioning Dropbox folder and will download your files to it.

[rlesperance]

Thanks.  I proceeded without deleting the Dropbox folder prior to your answer.  

I thought that Dropbox would have only checked the data and synced whatever was required.  Do you say that Dropbox has synced everything back ?

[Jay]

Hi @rlesperance, the Apple migration feature can cause permission and security issues when transferring files in your Dropbox folder.

In general, we always recommend installing Dropbox from scratch and allowing the files to sync down through the site so there are no potential issues.

Does the desktop app show that it's up to date when you hover your mouse over the icon in the menu bar?