How to performs windows backup

Performing a backup in Windows ensures that your important files and system settings are protected against data loss. Windows offers several built-in tools to create backups, including File History, Backup and Restore (Windows), and System Image Backup. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use these tools to perform backups on a Windows system.

Method 1: Backup Using File History

File History is designed to back up your personal files and folders, such as documents, pictures, music, and videos.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Connect an External Drive:
   • Connect an external hard drive or USB drive to your computer. File History requires an external storage device to store backup files.
2. Open Settings:
   • Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
3. Navigate to Backup:
   • Go to Update & Security > Backup.
4. Turn On File History:
   • Click on Add a drive and select the external drive you connected. This will enable File History and automatically start backing up your files.
5. Configure File History Settings:
   • Click on More options to adjust settings like how often you want backups to occur and how long to keep the saved versions.
   • By default, File History backs up every hour and keeps backups forever, but you can change this to fit your needs.
6. Add or Remove Folders from Backup:
   • In the Backup options, you can see the list of folders being backed up. Click Add a folder to include additional folders in the backup or Remove to exclude certain folders.
7. Manually Run a Backup:
   • Click Back up now to manually start a backup.
8. Restore Files from File History:
   • If you need to restore files, go to Control Panel > File History > Restore personal files and select the files or folders you want to restore.

Method 2: Backup Using Backup and Restore (Windows 7)

Backup and Restore (Windows 7) is a utility that allows you to create system image backups and regular file backups. Despite the name, this tool is available in Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open Control Panel:
   • Press Win + R, type Control Panel, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to Backup and Restore (Windows 7):
   • Click on System and Security > Backup and Restore (Windows 7).
3. Set Up Backup:
   • Click Set up backup. Windows will prompt you to select a destination for the backup. You can choose an external drive, a network location, or a secondary internal drive.
4. Choose Backup Destination:
   • Select the drive where you want to save the backup, then click Next.
5. Select Files to Backup:
   • Choose whether to let Windows choose what to back up (recommended) or manually select the files and folders.
   • If you choose to let Windows decide, it will back up data files saved in libraries, on the desktop, and in default Windows folders, as well as create a system image.
   • If you choose to select files yourself, you can include libraries, folders, or even specific files.
6. Set Backup Schedule:
   • Set how often you want the backup to occur (e.g., daily, weekly, or monthly). Adjust the schedule to your preference and click OK.
7. Start Backup:
   • Click Save settings and run backup to start the backup process. The initial backup may take some time, depending on the amount of data being backed up.
8. Restore Files from Backup:
   • To restore files, go to Backup and Restore (Windows 7) and click Restore my files or Restore all users’ files.
   • Follow the prompts to select the backup location and the files you want to restore.

Method 3: Create a System Image Backup

A System Image Backup creates a complete snapshot of your system, including the operating system, installed programs, settings, and files. This type of backup can be used to restore your entire system in case of a catastrophic failure.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open Control Panel:
   • Press Win + R, type Control Panel, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to Backup and Restore (Windows 7):
   • Click on System and Security > Backup and Restore (Windows 7).
3. Create a System Image:
   • Click Create a system image on the left sidebar.
4. Select the Backup Destination:
   • Choose where you want to save the system image. You can save it to an external drive, a set of DVDs, or a network location.
   • Click Next.
5. Confirm Backup Settings:
   • Select the drives you want to include in the system image (usually, this will just be the system drive where Windows is installed).
   • Click Start backup to begin the process. This may take some time depending on the size of your system.
6. Create a System Repair Disc (Optional):
   • After creating the system image, you’ll be prompted to create a system repair disc. This disc can be used to boot your computer and restore the system image in case of a failure.
   • Click Yes to create the disc if you have a CD/DVD drive, or click No to skip this step.
7. Restore from System Image:
   • To restore your computer using a system image, boot your computer from the Windows installation media or a system repair disc.
   • Choose Repair your computer, then select System Image Recovery and follow the prompts to restore from your system image.

Method 4: Use Third-Party Backup Software

While Windows provides several built-in backup options, you may also consider using third-party backup software for more advanced features, such as:

• Acronis True Image
• Macrium Reflect
• EaseUS Todo Backup
• Paragon Backup & Recovery

These tools often offer additional features like incremental backups, differential backups, and cloud storage integration.

Additional Tips

• Automate Backups: Schedule backups to run automatically at regular intervals to ensure your data is always protected.
• Verify Backups: Regularly check your backups to ensure they are completing successfully and that the files can be restored.
• Store Backups Offsite: For added security, keep a copy of your backups offsite or in the cloud to protect against local disasters like fires or theft.

By following these steps, you can effectively use Windows built-in tools to back up your files and protect your system.