Microsoft is currently in the testing phase of an innovative recovery feature for Windows 11 known as Point-in-Time Restore. This new functionality promises a more extensive system snapshot compared to the traditional System Restore, which has long been a staple in Windows recovery options. Initially unveiled in 2025, Point-in-Time Restore made its first appearance in the Windows 11 Insider Experimental preview on April 24, 2026. The primary objective of this feature, as articulated by Microsoft, is to “minimize downtime and simplify troubleshooting when disruptions occur.” Users will find this feature integrated into the Windows Recovery Environment troubleshooting window, and it can also be accessed and configured through the Windows Settings app.
What Point-in-Time Restore Backs Up and How Snapshot Scheduling Works
Point-in-Time Restore distinguishes itself from System Restore by offering a more comprehensive backup solution. While System Restore typically secures system files, registry settings, drivers, and installed applications, Point-in-Time Restore encompasses a broader range of data. This includes user files, applications, settings, passwords, secrets, certificates, and keys. It is important to note that files stored in OneDrive or other cloud services remain unaffected by the restore process.
When reverting to a Point-in-Time snapshot, the entire PC is restored to its previous state, which means any local changes made after the snapshot will be lost. This includes edits to local files or any new files saved outside of cloud storage. Unlike its predecessor, Point-in-Time Restore operates on an automated schedule, eliminating the need for manual snapshot creation. Snapshots are retained for up to 72 hours, with options to shorten this duration to six, twelve, sixteen, or twenty-four hours. Users can also choose to create new snapshots at intervals of four, twelve, sixteen, or twenty-four hours, depending on their preferences.
Storage Requirements and the Windows 365 Enterprise Version
For optimal functionality, Point-in-Time Restore is enabled by default on PCs with a minimum of 200GB of drive space. Users with smaller drives will need to set up the feature manually. The storage allocation for this feature is capped at 2% of the total drive capacity, with flexibility for different percentage allocations. A minimum of 2GB must be reserved for Point-in-Time Restore to operate effectively. For consumer versions of Windows, this feature remains optional, allowing users to toggle it on or off as desired.
In contrast, a specialized version of Point-in-Time Restore is available for Windows 365 Enterprise cloud PCs managed through Intune. This enterprise variant is always active, retains restore points for up to a month, permits manual creation of restore points, and utilizes scalable cloud storage rather than relying on local drive space.
Remote Management Support and Availability
While remote management support for Point-in-Time Restore is currently under development, it is not yet available in the existing preview. Microsoft has indicated that this feature will be included in future updates, although a specific timeline for its release has not been disclosed. At present, Point-in-Time Restore is limited to builds within the Windows 11 Insider Experimental channel, and details regarding its broader availability to the general Windows 11 user base remain forthcoming.
