Concomitantly with the release of Windows Vista to the general public, Microsoft has also made available a free migration tool that will enable users to transfer their data from Windows XP and Windows 2000 machines to Vista based PCs.

According to Microsoft, the data transfer can be done across a network, to an external drive or to a CD/DVD via the Easy Transfer Cables. With Windows Easy Transfer, users will be able to transition their files, photos, music, emails and even settings to their new Windows Vista PCs. However, Windows Easy Transfer does not support the migration of installed applications.

"This software installs Windows Easy Transfer on a Windows XP or Windows 2000 based PC. This software is already built into Windows Vista, so it is not necessary to install it on a Windows Vista based PC. Windows Easy Transfer enables you to automatically copy your files, photos, music, email, settings, and more to your new Windows Vista based PC," informed Microsoft.

The Redmond Company has designed Windows Easy Transfer in order to stream line the migration process of personal data and settings across to Windows Vista.

"As an alternative to downloading, Windows Easy Transfer can be installed from the CD that came with your Easy Transfer Cable, or by following the directions in the Windows Vista version of Windows Easy Transfer on how to copy the program to Windows XP or Windows 2000," added Microsoft.

The tool is available for both x86 and x64 versions of the Windows operating system.

Windows Easy Transfer 6.0 was tested by Softpedia as being 100% Clean and is available for download here.