It’s easy to move your files and settings from another Mac or PC to your iMac. To transfer the data when you first set up your iMac, use Setup Assistant. To transfer data later, you can use Migration Assistant. If both computers are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, you can transfer the data wirelessly.
Tip: For best results, make sure your iMac is running the latest version of macOS. To check for software updates, click the System Preferences icon or Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port on your iMac, then drag files from your storage device to your iMac.
Use Target Disk Mode. Depending on the type of Thunderbolt port on your old computer, you need different cables and/or adapters:
Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port: You need a Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) cable. Plug one end into a Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port on your old computer and one end into a Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port on your iMac.
Thunderbolt 2 port: You need a Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter and a Thunderbolt 2 cable. Plug the adapter into a Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port on your iMac. Then connect one end of the Thunderbolt 2 cable to the adapter, and the other end to the Thunderbolt 2 port on your old computer.
Put the Mac you want to migrate data from in Target Disk Mode by restarting it while holding down the T key. Then connect the two computers using one of the options described above, and open Migration Assistant on your iMac. Select “From a Mac, Time Machine backup, or startup disk” when asked how you want to transfer your information, click Continue, then select the disk you want to transfer information from.
Note: If FileVault is enabled on your old Mac, you’re asked to enter an administrator password before you can use Target Disk Mode.