What is the process of copying electronic files and folders to new media called?

The process of copying electronic files and folders to new media is known as data migration. This term is used to describe the systematic transfer of data between storage types, formats, or computer systems. In this context, it involves moving data from one environment to another, whether that be transferring from a local hard drive to a cloud service, or from an older storage system to a newer one. Data migration ensures that all necessary data is moved or copied correctly and efficiently, often with the goal of improving performance or integrating with new systems.

While the other terms may seem similar, they highlight different aspects of data handling. The backup process specifically refers to creating copies of data for protection against loss, not necessarily involving the idea of moving it to a new system or format. File transfer typically refers to sending files from one device to another without implying permanence or the context of storage change. Data transfer is a broader term that can refer to any movement of data, not specifically involving the notion of migration or the associated processes to ensure the data is compatible in the new location.