Your Windows PC has a secretly useful backup tool - here's how to access it

Windows includes a built-in backup feature in Windows 10 and 11 called Windows Backup. It can save files to recordable CDs or DVDs, an external drive, or a network location, and can include a full system image for restoring Windows. This legacy tool has been deprecated by Microsoft, so it may produce occasional errors.

Using a network share as the destination has triggered a persistent error for some users even when paths and credentials appear correct; many people report the same problem, which is why an external drive is often the more reliable choice. Microsoft also offers a newer Windows Backup designed to move certain files and settings between PCs, while the older tool behaves like traditional backup software.

To set up a backup, choose your storage media (CD/DVD, external USB drive, or network share), make sure it’s connected and has enough space—typically at least 16GB to 32GB depending on your files—and select the destination.

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