1. A software-driven computer migration method for migrating the essence of a source computer to a target computer, said method comprising the steps of: a) generating a list of items stored on said source computer; b) establishing a connection between the source computer and the target computer; c) comparing the source list to information stored on the target computer; and d) transferring selected information from the source computer to the target computer based on the comparison; e) wherein said target computer is adapted to replace said source computer.