Windows Easy Transfer: Re-install programs before, or after?

"Personally, I would do it before.

One of the processes if you choose it is ""program settings"" and it will not work if you install after (as setups will most likely overwrite your programs). From the FAQ:

Program settings.

Settings that keep your programs configured as you had them on your old computer. Windows Easy Transfer doesn't transfer the programs themselves. Some programs might not work in this version of Windows, including security programs, antivirus programs, firewall programs (your new computer should already have a firewall running to help ensure safety during the transfer), and programs with software drivers.

Can I transfer programs?

No. Windows Easy Transfer transfers only program settings, not the programs themselves. To use the programs from your old computer, install them on your new computer, and then transfer files and settings for those programs. It's possible that some kinds of programs, such as security and antivirus programs, might not work with this version of Windows."