folder backup Archives

Winsage

April 25, 2026

Hands-On: The New Windows Insider Program and Windows Update

Microsoft has released a pre-release wave of enhancements for Windows 11 through the Windows Insider Program, introducing three notable features: 1. A new Feature flags interface that allows users to toggle new features immediately. 2. An updated experience providing access to both Experimental and Beta channels. 3. The ability to pause Windows Updates indefinitely using a calendar interface. Users must enroll in the Windows Insider Program to access these features. The new "Pick a date" button for pausing updates replaces the previous drop-down menu, allowing users to select specific dates for update pauses. The Experimental channel has replaced the Dev channel, and users can now revert to a stable version with the "Unenroll Device" option. Additionally, users can pause updates for up to 35 days, with the option to extend this pause indefinitely. Future updates will also introduce an "Available updates" interface.

Winsage

March 22, 2026

Trust But Verify ⭐️

Pavan Davuluri has been appointed as the new leader of Windows development at Microsoft. The company has committed to enhancing the quality of Windows through 2026. Davuluri's recent blog post, primarily directed at Windows Insider Program participants, lacks an apology for past customer grievances and does not address several critical issues, including forced telemetry, bundled software, chaotic updates, forced Microsoft account sign-ins, and the mandatory use of Microsoft Edge. While he mentions plans to improve Windows Update and acknowledges the need for better reliability and transparency in the Windows Insider Program, many concerns remain unaddressed. The introduction of Copilot and its integration into Windows will continue, but users have expressed frustration over its implementation. Davuluri's approach to improving performance through the WinUI3 framework is met with skepticism.

Winsage

February 27, 2026

De-Enshittify Windows 11: Make Windows 11 More Secure ⭐

Windows 11 offers a mix of security and privacy features, with a recommendation for users to opt for a Copilot+ PC with a Qualcomm Snapdragon X-series processor for enhanced security. Most users log in with a Microsoft account, which provides benefits such as two-factor authentication, device-bound passkeys, account recovery options, and automatic disk encryption. However, using a local account poses security risks, including limited recovery options and lack of support for key security features. To secure Windows 11, users should take several steps during initial setup or later, including enabling Windows Security features, verifying device encryption, and enhancing sign-in security through Windows Hello options like facial and fingerprint recognition. Additional security features such as Controlled Folder Access and Smart App Control can be configured for better protection. Users are advised to remove unnecessary third-party security apps and keep Windows 11 and installed applications up-to-date to maintain security. Regular updates and proper configuration of Windows Update settings are also essential for preventing disruptions and ensuring data safety.

Winsage

February 10, 2026

De-Enshittify Windows 11: OneDrive ⭐

Microsoft has auto-enabled the OneDrive Folder Backup feature in Windows 11 version 25H2 without notifying users, syncing the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders automatically. Many users may not want these folders synced due to containing sensitive or large files. Disabling Folder Backup can be cumbersome, as it requires users to decide where to store contents, complicating content management. Unlike previous versions, this feature is activated post-login without user consent. To uninstall OneDrive, users can go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, locate Microsoft OneDrive, and select "Uninstall." Uninstalling does not delete cloud-stored files, which remain accessible via the OneDrive website or app. Users can prevent OneDrive from enabling Folder Backup during PC setup by acting quickly after the Windows Setup Out of Box Experience (OOBE) and canceling the backup process when prompted. If Folder Backup is already enabled, users can disable it by accessing OneDrive settings and managing backups for the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders. OneDrive offers only 5 GB of free cloud storage, with additional storage requiring a subscription to Microsoft 365. Users can disable “On this day” memory notifications in OneDrive settings. To move OneDrive to a different disk, users must unlink their account and select a new folder path during re-sign-in.

Winsage

September 8, 2025

Is OneDrive sending all your Windows files to the cloud? Here’s why – and what you can do

When setting up a new Windows PC or completing a feature update, user data files may be relocated to the cloud, particularly when signing in with a Microsoft account on Windows 10 or 11. This creates a OneDrive folder that can lead to confusion regarding file backup, as it differs from traditional backup methods. Users with Microsoft 365 subscriptions receive 1 TB or 100 GB of OneDrive storage, while free accounts only have 5 GB. Adjusting File Explorer settings can result in cluttered views and potential duplication of folders. Users can manage OneDrive folder backup by turning it off completely or using it selectively to stay within storage limits. Microsoft's documentation on OneDrive is noted to be insufficient.

Winsage

July 25, 2025

I have a lot of Windows PCs, and these are my 6 tips for managing multiple Windows PCs at home

To manage multiple Windows 11 PCs effectively, consider the following practices: 1. Use Windows Backup to back up settings and app lists to the cloud, simplifying device setup and restoration. A Microsoft account is required for this feature. 2. Disable OneDrive folder backups to avoid complications from limited free storage and syncing issues. 3. Utilize the Windows Package Manager (winget) to manage applications across devices by exporting and importing lists of installed apps. 4. Enable nearby sharing in the Settings app to transfer files between devices without internet reliance. 5. Use a software KVM, like Microsoft's Mouse Without Borders, to control multiple PCs with a single keyboard and mouse. 6. Implement a remote desktop tool, such as TeamViewer or AnyDesk, for remote access and control of other PCs.

Winsage

July 22, 2025

Microsoft Documents How Windows Backup Will Help You Migrate to a New PC

Microsoft is introducing a new feature called “Transfer information to a new PC” within the Windows Backup utility for Windows 10 and 11. This feature allows users to automatically transfer files, settings, and preferences from an old PC to a new one. It is currently available for users who sign in with a Microsoft account and requires both PCs to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Users will launch Windows Backup on the old PC, select the transfer option, choose the destination PC, enter a one-time code, and select the data to be transferred. The transfer supports all files, including documents, photos, videos, and personalization settings. However, it does not include system and OS files, files stored in OneDrive, installed applications, saved passwords, or data on BitLocker-encrypted drives, which must be decrypted beforehand.

Winsage

September 25, 2024

Is OneDrive messing with your files? How to get your Windows storage under control

When setting up a new Windows PC with a Microsoft account, users may find their data files relocated to OneDrive, which can lead to confusion. Upon creating a user account, standard folders (Desktop, Documents, Downloads, Pictures, Music, and Videos) are generated on the system drive. If users choose to back up files during the setup process, new versions of these folders are created within the OneDrive directory, and their locations are reset to point to OneDrive. This means files originally stored locally are now found in OneDrive folders. Users with Microsoft 365 subscriptions have 1 TB of storage, while free accounts have only 5 GB, which can quickly fill up. To manage file storage, users can subscribe to Microsoft 365, disable OneDrive folder backup, or adopt a hybrid approach by backing up local folders while keeping older files separate.

Winsage

August 9, 2024

These 14 tweaks will make your Windows 11 PC so much better

Windows 11 offers various features to enhance user experience, including: - Turning off notifications and enabling Do Not Disturb to minimize distractions. - Disabling unnecessary startup tasks through Task Manager to improve system performance. - Changing the theme color by accessing the Personalize settings. - Setting up a Dev Drive for developers to improve project performance with secure storage. - Enabling Restore Points to revert the PC to a previous state, which is disabled by default. - Activating Storage Sense to automate the cleanup of temporary files. - Replacing the default Start menu with alternatives like Start11 or StartAllBack for better customization. - Changing the taskbar alignment to the left for a familiar layout. - Disabling unnecessary taskbar icons by unpinning them or adjusting Taskbar settings. - Uninstalling pre-installed apps that are not needed, potentially using tools like O&O AppBuster. - Accessing the classic context menu by holding Shift while right-clicking or using registry tweaks for a permanent change. - Disabling privacy-invasive features in the Privacy & security settings. - Turning on Night Light to reduce blue light emission during late-night usage. - Disabling OneDrive folder backups to prevent storage space consumption.

Winsage

July 8, 2024

How to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account, and tricks to avoid a Microsoft account

Microsoft has updated a webpage detailing how to manage a Windows account, including instructions on switching from a Microsoft account to a local account. The information was initially removed but has now been restored without explanation. Despite Microsoft's preference for Microsoft accounts, workarounds exist for setting up a local account in Windows 11. Users should have the option to choose their preferred type of account without having to resort to tricks.