Power Automate Desktop, part of Microsoft’s Power Automate suite, allows users to automate repetitive desktop tasks without writing complex code. It is a powerful tool for streamlining processes, saving time, and improving efficiency by automating manual operations like data entry, file management, and app integrations.
Sometimes, you may need to move or share these automated workflows called “flows”, between computers or with other users. Whether you’re changing devices, collaborating with a colleague, or simply creating a backup, you can easily copy and paste your Power Automate Desktop flows without needing a premium license. Here’s how to do it step-by-step.
Step-by-Step Guide to Copy and Paste Power Automate Desktop Flows
Step 1: Open Your Power Automate Desktop Flow
Start by launching Power Automate Desktop and opening the flow that you want to copy.
Step 2: Copy the Entire Flow
Press Ctrl + A to select the whole flow and then press Ctrl + C to copy it.
Open Notepad or any text editor and paste the copied content using Ctrl + V.
Save this text file to your desktop or a secure folder. This file contains all your flow’s actions and logic.
Step 3: Transfer the File to Another Computer
Now, move the saved text file to your new computer. You can use a USB drive, email attachment, or a cloud storage service like OneDrive or Google Drive.
Step 4: Create a New Desktop Flow on the Second Computer
On the target computer, open Power Automate Desktop, and create a New Desktop Flow. Give it a name that matches or describes your original project.
Step 5: Paste and Save the Flow
Open the new flow’s editor, copy all content from your saved text file, and paste it directly into the editor window. Once pasted, save the flow and close the editor. Your automation is now successfully transferred.
Note:
This method transfers all your actions, logic, variables, and UI elements, but it may not copy image-based elements perfectly. You might need to manually reinsert any images or UI references used in the flow.
Conclusion
Power Automate Desktop makes it easy to create and run automations that simplify daily work tasks. If you ever need to move your workflows to another machine, the copy-and-paste method provides a quick, reliable way to do so without requiring any paid features. For larger teams or enterprise environments, consider using Microsoft’s official export and sharing options for better version control and collaboration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I share Power Automate Desktop flows without a premium license?
Yes, you can share or move flows manually by copying and pasting them as text, as explained in this guide. However, official sharing through the Power Automate portal requires a premium license.
Do I need to reinstall connectors or actions after moving a flow?
No, standard desktop actions are included in the flow. But if your flow relies on specific apps or connectors not installed on the new machine, you’ll need to install them first.
Will variables and UI elements also transfer?
Yes, variables and UI elements transfer correctly. However, image-based UI references might not appear and may need to be recreated on the target computer.
Can I use this method to back up my Power Automate Desktop flows?
Yes. Saving your flow as a text file is a great way to back it up safely. You can store these backups on cloud storage or external drives.
Is there an easier way to share flows between users?
If you frequently share or collaborate on flows, Microsoft recommends using the export/import options available through Power Automate (cloud) for smoother sharing and version management.
