Migrating data from an old Mac to a new one should be a seamless process, but for many users, Apple’s Migration Assistant throws an unexpected roadblock: “Authentication failed.” This error typically appears during the setup phase when trying to connect the two devices via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or Time Machine backup. It can halt your transfer of files, apps, and settings, leaving you frustrated mid-move.
If you’re encountering this issue on macOS Ventura, Sonoma, or the latest Sequoia release, you’re not alone. Based on widespread user reports from Apple Communities, Reddit, and tech forums, this error often stems from hardware glitches, network hiccups, or user account mismatches. The good news? It’s usually fixable with a few targeted steps. In this article, we’ll break down the common causes and provide proven workarounds to get you back on track—without losing your data.
