I am in the process of moving files from my old PC (Vista) to a new PC (Windows 8) using a portable hard drive. After completing the process I realized that some large files that show on the old computer and on the portable hard drive do not copy to the new computer. In fact, when I connect the portable hard drive to the Windows 8 computer they files are not shown.

I tried copying the same files to a flash drive and had the same results. Why does Windows 8 not recognize these files? What can I do to save and view them on this new computer?

Most of the files are photos. I also had the same problem with an excel file.

t seems to be an issue with the file compatibility issues or may be due to broken or corrupted files. To assist you further with this issue, I would like to know some information about the same.

1. Is this issue confined specific files or folders?
2. Are you able to copy the files successfully to the portable hard drive?
3. Do you get any error code or error message?

I would suggest you to try copying the files to SkyDrive from the Windows Vista computer and then try saving to the Windows 8 computer using the SkyDrive app. I would suggest you to refer to the following Microsoft Help article and check if it helps.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/getting-started-skydrive-tutorial