what is an efficient (and free) way to transfer files to new computer?

Hi,
I am waiting for my new laptop to come in the mail. My current laptop is running Windows 7 32-bit. The new one runs Windows 7 64-bit.

I understand I will have to reinstall programs, but what is an efficient (and free) way to transfer files (and settings?) over the new system? In addition to files, I would like my browser bookmarks, pinned folders, email messages (thunderbird), and the like transferred.

My current hard-drive is using about 100 GB of space.

If it helps, I also have a 500 GB external hard-drive available for use. I don't have any special high-speed connection/file transfer wires. I may have some old ethernet wires laying around somewhere.

Windows Easy Transfer - Transfer To & From Computers

Recovery WET IMG
How to extract files from MIG

thank you for the replies,
with using Windows Easy Transfer, is there any issue of transferring from 32bit to 64bit?

WET has no issue with x86 or x64 or a mix.
Is your old rig CLEAN?

i'm not sure what is meant by clean, but it has no viruses and I try to keep files organized.

Occasionally I may dust the old rig too (haha).

I would just drag my active User folders to external to copy into the new install, as importing settings is a corruption path.

Best to go completely clean: Clean up factory bloatware

Google how to transfer Thunderbird mail and account settings.

Your browser Favorites can be exported from the Bookmarks/Favorites tab. If you use IE your Favorites User file will also populate browser Favorites.

Hi,
I got my new notebook and I used the Windows Easy Transfer with external hard drive along with reinstalling my programs. The process was smoother than expected. Thank you all for your help in resolving this issue.

You are welcome.