How does Windows 11's new backup feature work?

However, Microsoft is testing an official app for creating and managing backups.

Instead of manually copying every file or creating a huge system image, you can manage backups of most personal data on your Windows PC in one app. Are you wondering how this application works and what data it can backup? Let's find out through the following article!

What is the new Windows Backup app?

Windows 11 already has a backup section in the Settings app that provides the option to save all your device preferences, remember apps and settings, and store all your personal files in OneDrive. The Windows Backup app brings all these options into one store in the form of one app. So users will easily choose what to back up without opening the Settings app.

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After backing up all the necessary files and settings, you can restore it using the OOBE experience page. It appears after you log in to your Microsoft account while installing or resetting your Windows PC.

How to use the Windows Backup application

The Windows Backup app was previously available on the Canary and Dev Insider channels. But now, it is also available for Beta channel. You must update to insider build 22631.2262 to get access to the Windows Backup app if you have your PC enrolled in the Dev channel. Just check for the latest Windows update and install it on your PC.

To get started, you must sign in to Windows with a Microsoft account. If you're currently using a local account, convert your local account to a Microsoft account on Windows before continuing.

You also need OneDrive sync to work on your PC. See how to link OneDrive to your Microsoft account for more information.

You can check the status of all these features in the Backup section of the Settings app. Once done, follow these steps:

1. Press the Win key to open the Start menu. Type Windows Backup and press the Enter key to launch the application.

2. You will see 4 options: Folders , Apps , Settings and Credentials .

3. Click the arrow icon next to the Folders option . Enable conversion of all folders that you want to select for backup.

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4. You can then select the type of settings, credentials, and apps to backup using the remaining options listed in the app.

5. Finally, click the Backup button to start the process. It will take a while to upload all the files and settings.

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6. Click the Close button to end the application.

The backup is complete. Whenever you reset your PC or install Windows on a new PC, you can import this backup at the same time. The setup page will ask you to sign in to your account while installing Windows 11.

After signing in, you'll see the option to restore data from your old PC. If you use your Microsoft account on other PCs and have backup enabled on them, you'll also see the option to restore data from these devices. Complete the device setup and then sign in to your PC.

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You'll see all the pinned app icons in the Start menu and Taskbar, and can click on the icons to restore the app. Windows will direct you to the official website to download and install apps not available on the Microsoft Store. You can even restore all Store apps by launching the Microsoft Store app and selecting the Restore All option .

Compare the Windows Backup app and previous backup options

The Windows Backup app relies on cloud storage to store all of your data. It's more convenient to access files via OneDrive and restore all your personal settings and apps.

Older backup options do not offer this feature. You can create a complete system image and backup all files, but it requires a separate external hard drive.

Similarly, File History is great for backing up personal files and maintaining multiple versions of files. However, you will not be able to restore applications and settings using File History. So, the cloud backup method is a great way to regularly back up all your files, settings, and preferences.

However, you may have to upgrade to the paid OneDrive if your personal files take up too much space. Another thing to note is that restoring Microsoft Store apps is extremely easy, but all third-party software will still be missing from the image. After data recovery, you will have to install all these applications manually.

Jessica Tanner

Update 13 September 2023