In this article, we will show you how to backup and restore important files and folders in Windows 11.

Windows 11 is packed with many great features that make it more intuitive and understandable. The Start menu, taskbar, and operating system are now centered on making everything easier to find. Rid corners on all windows offer an even more personal experience. The themes bring the interface to life & the colors are designed to suit your device.

One of the many features you can take advantage of with Windows 11 is its built-in backup and restore tool. You can read this article- How to restore files from file history in Windows 11

Window 11 provides a feature that allows you to back up your files and store them for safe-keeping. If you need to restore a file, Window 11 provides a quick and easy process.

It’s essential to put backups of your important files somewhere safe, such as an external hard drive. Keep a backup of everything on an external hard drive, and your data will be secure. For any files, you can’t back up, copy them onto a USB stick which you can take anywhere!

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Here are the steps to back up your files in Windows 11.

How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

How to Back up your Files

The most hassle-free way to backup your data is by using Windows’ built-in tool. There are several other tools out there, but this is the one that comes with Windows 11.

You could either manually copy the file to a backup location, or you can use an application that does this for you on your computer. However, the best option is to automatically backup your important files on your computer by allowing Windows to do it for you.

What should you backup?

In the light of a data-destroying event, it’s essential to protect your most valuable files. Information like documents, emails, financial documents, and irreplaceable family photos should be backed up.

Other less essential data would be your profile settings, installed software, and system settings. These are things you change reasonably often but are relatively easy to fix.

How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

How to Backup files to OneDrive

Saving your files and photos to OneDrive is a good way of backing up Windows. You’ll be able to access whatever you upload from other devices, anywhere.

You need a Microsoft account to set up OneDrive on your machine. Go to the link below and create a Microsoft account.

Sign in – Microsoft OneDrive (live.com)

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With 5GB of free storage, you can upload all your videos, pictures, music, and documents for 100% free. When you need more space, we give you a few options to choose from, including paying a low monthly fee for continued premium service.

To set up a backup on a new Windows system, go below for more steps.

Windows 11 has a centralized location for most of its settings. Everything can be done from the System Settings pane, from system configurations to creating new users and updating Windows.

To get to System Settings, you can press the Windows key + I shortcut or click on Start -> Settings. Check the snapshot below for reference.

How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

Alternatively, you can use the search bar on the taskbar and type “Settings.” Then select to open it.

Windows 10 settings pane should look similar to the image below. In Windows Settings, click System, then select Storage on the right pane of your screen. Check the snapshot below for reference.

How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

On the System Storage Settings page, click on Advanced Storage Settings.

How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

You can choose a backup option in the Advanced settings screen.

How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

To back up your files to OneDrive, go to the Backup options page and choose the OneDrive icon. Then input your Microsoft account credentials when prompted.

How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

You will be asked to enter your OneDrive account email address and password to log in.

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How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

After logging in to your OneDrive account, the setup wizard should appear. The next thing you should do is to click “next.”

How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

Once you make it through the setup process, you should see this screen letting you know OneDrive is ready to go. Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed and set up OneDrive.

How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

How to Backup Windows 11 Files to External Drives

You can backup and restore your Windows to any external drive, meaning if your original files go missing, get corrupted, or deleted, you’ll be able to recover exactly what you need.

In Windows Settings – to System, then Storage; now Advanced Backup options, select Back up using File History instead of going to OneDrive as mentioned above.

How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

Once you click the Add a drive button, you’ll be prompted to select the external drive to back up to. Choose the drive that’s connected to your computer.

You’re all set when you select a drive. Every hour, Windows will back up everything in your user folder. If you want to change which files get backed up or how often backups happen, go to More options.

How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

More choices mean you can decide when and how often your files are backed up.

How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11

Once you’ve finished, save and close.

Conclusion: Backup and Restore in Windows 11

I hope this guide on How to Backup and Restore in Windows 11 was helpful. If you face any issues, you can comment below. You can additionally view this guide- How to restore files from file history in Windows 11.

Author

Ruby has been a writer and author for a while, and her content appears all across the tech world, from within ReadWrite, BusinessMagazine, ThriveGlobal, etc.

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