Abstract: A data transfer system and method for copying an operating system from an original hard drive to a replacement hard drive such that the replacement hard drive can be substituted for the original hard drive in a self-initializing manner. The system includes a data transfer program that identifies the operating system on the original hard drive. The data transfer program prepares the operating system for copying to the replacement hard drive and then copies the operating system, including all files of the operating system, to the replacement hard drive. After the operating system is copied onto the replacement hard drive, the replacement hard drive can be substituted for the original drive, and the replacement hard drive will be operable in a self-initializing manner.