How to create a System Image backup on Windows 11

On Windows systems in general and Windows 11 in particular, if the main operating system drive fails, it may take a long time for you to return the system to its normal working state, even if it is in manual backups. You will need to reinstall every app and configure each to your liking. To avoid that, consider backing up the System Image. Find out how to do it right here

What is System Image Backup?

In a Windows environment, a System Image backup is an exact copy of the entire 'C:' drive containing the system's working Windows installation folders, all installed applications, as well as all files configuration and data for those applications. They are stored 'frozen' as an important backup, ready to use when needed.

In the event of a system drive failure, you can restore this System Image to a new drive, back it up, and run it as if nothing changed — no need to reinstall Windows or apps. Of course, there can be a lot of extra data that you don't always need in a regular backup. Therefore, an ideal System Image will only play the primary role of maintaining the correct state of the Windows system.

Create a System Image backup on Windows 11

To create a system image backup on Windows 11, you will need to use a tool called 'Backup and Restore (Windows 7)'. This tool comes with every version of Windows since Windows 7. To launch it, first access the Control Panel by opening the Start menu and typing the keyword 'Control Panel'. Then click the 'Control Panel' icon in the list of results returned below.

When 'Control Panel' opens, look under 'System and Security' and click on the 'Backup and Restore (Windows 7)' link.

In the Backup and Restore section, click 'Create a System Image' in the sidebar.

Next, Windows will ask where you want to save the backup. You can choose either a local hard drive or an external storage drive (not the one you're backing up), DVD, or network. Select an option and click 'Next'.

Next, you will see an overview of what will be backed up. Click 'Start Backup'.

The system will show you a progress bar of creating a system image backup.

When the backup is complete, close the System Image tool. If you check the destination location, you will see the 'WindowsImageBackup' folder containing the backup files. Do not move or modify this folder.

In the future when you want to restore a backup, run the Backup and Restore tool (Windows 7) again, look in the 'Restore' section and select the location containing the system image you created. Windows will restore the backup, restart the PC and everything will be done.

Marvin Fry

Update 22 August 2022