Backups are essential for preserving data, especially when a primary machine encounters issues. Windows 11 offers a variety of tools designed to facilitate this process, whether through on-device, external, or cloud solutions. Previously, I relied on Macrium Reflect, a robust tool that unfortunately phased out its free tier and lacked certain basic backup features, prompting me to explore alternatives.
With a fresh interface, the Windows Backup app emerges as a central hub for safeguarding files on the C drive, installed applications, and even operating system preferences. This app stands out for its ability to restore backups during a Windows reinstallation, secure credentials, and maintain resilience against online threats.
5 Blazing Fast Setup
Restoring a backup doesn’t need to be exhausting
Restoring a backup can be a streamlined experience. With Windows Backup, I can initiate the restoration process right from the Out of Box Experience (OOBE) setup, which appears after the OS installation completes. This eliminates the need for external USB drives or navigating through BIOS settings to select the correct disk drive.
Windows Backup is designed for reliability, focusing on restoring critical settings and personal files. If I need to reset my PC, I can quickly return to my previous Windows setup by selecting the Restore this backup option during installation. The efficiency of this process largely depends on my internet connection, particularly if I utilize OneDrive for basic work-related file backups. Moreover, I can restore my Windows theme, wallpaper, desktop pins, and system settings, saving valuable time that would otherwise be spent reconfiguring individual settings.
4 Don’t Need to Remember Passwords
Only remember your Microsoft account credentials
Connecting my laptop to various wireless networks can make remembering passwords a daunting task. While I could manually export passwords or jot them down before resetting my PC, this seems inefficient. Unlike Macrium Reflect, which lacks such features, Windows Backup conveniently remembers all connections, passwords, and accounts without needing additional software. Just remembering my Microsoft account credentials is sufficient to restore all types of credentials on my Windows 11 PC, allowing me to connect to any wireless network seamlessly.
3 Restores Installed Apps in One Go
Bring Back All Your Microsoft Store Apps
Restoring installed applications can often be a cumbersome task during a clean install or image backup restoration. While third-party backup solutions may preserve files and folders, they typically do not restore Microsoft Store apps and games. However, with Windows Backup, enabling the Apps option simplifies this process into a one-click operation.
This feature backs up the entire Microsoft Store app list, and upon booting to the desktop for the first time, a prompt appears to restore all previously used store apps. A simple click redirects me to the Microsoft Store, where I can easily re-download all my apps. Although it does not restore apps installed via setup files, I can find installation links for third-party software in the All apps section of the Start menu, albeit requiring individual installations.
2 Beginner-Friendly Design
No More Confusing Menus and Options
Many Windows backup tools, including Macrium Reflect, can be overwhelming for the average user. Navigating options and determining the best mode can be challenging. In contrast, Windows Backup adopts a straightforward approach with a user interface that aligns with the operating system. Users can easily access and select backup items and their sub-options at a glance, with each option accompanied by a clear explanation. Simply choose the desired items and click Continue to initiate the backup process, which uploads data to Microsoft servers.
1 Data Safety
Protect Files from Ransomware Attacks
When utilizing a cloud storage approach for backups, reliability and transparency in data management are paramount. Windows Backup securely saves all data to my Microsoft account, leveraging OneDrive for file storage, backed by robust security measures. This ensures that my data remains protected from external threats.
Similar to Macrium Reflect, Microsoft incorporates ransomware protection within Windows Backup. All files stored on OneDrive are safeguarded against such attacks, providing peace of mind for important files typically kept in the Libraries folders. In the event of an attack, personal files can still be restored.
What Can Microsoft Improve in the Future?
While the Windows Backup app is commendable, it does have some limitations. Notably, the inability to restore third-party apps is a significant drawback. Although users can manually download individual apps, a one-click restoration feature for Microsoft Store apps would greatly enhance usability.
Additionally, the limited cloud storage space presents a challenge. With only 5GB available on OneDrive, users must be judicious about what to save. It’s advisable to avoid storing large files and instead manage storage by moving non-essential items to other drives. By doing so, users can maximize the potential of this free Windows backup tool.
