How to Create a Backup of Windows 10 and Windows 11 and Restore Using Built-in Tools

Creating a backup of your Windows system is a critical step to protect your data and ensure your computer remains functional. In case of system errors or failures, a backup allows you to quickly restore the operating system and files. In this guide, we will explain how to create a backup and restore your system in Windows 10 and Windows 11 using the built-in tools.

Why Is It Important to Create Backups?

Backups can help you prevent issues like:

  • Failed Windows updates that can cause system crashes;
  • Viruses and malware attacks;
  • Hardware failures;
  • Accidental deletion or corruption of important files.

With a backup, you can quickly restore your system to a working state without needing a full reinstallation or risking data loss.

How to Create a Windows Backup Using Built-in Tools

Method 1: Using “Backup and Restore (Windows 7)”

This legacy tool is still available in Windows 10 and Windows 11, allowing you to create a system image. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Open the Start menu and type “Backup and Restore (Windows 7)”, then select it from the list.
  2. Click on “Create a system image” on the left side of the window.
  3. Choose where to save the backup: an external hard drive, USB drive, or network folder.
  4. Select the drives you want to include in the backup, then click “Next”.
  5. Click “Start backup” and wait for the process to complete.

Method 2: Using File History

File History helps you back up your personal files, such as documents, photos, and videos. To set up File History backup:

  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup.
  2. Select “Add a drive” and choose an external storage device.
  3. Enable the option “Automatically back up my files”.
  4. Click “More options” to customize the backup frequency and select the folders you want to back up.

Method 3: Using System Restore

System Restore allows you to create restore points, which can be used to roll back your system to a previous state in case of issues:

  1. Open Control Panel and go to Recovery.
  2. Click on “Configure System Restore”, select the drive, and click “Configure”.
  3. Enable the option “Turn on system protection” and click “OK”.
  4. Click “Create” to make a new restore point.

How to Restore Your System from a Backup

If you need to restore your system from a backup, follow these steps:

Restoring from a System Image

  1. Connect the backup drive and restart your computer.
  2. During startup, press F8 or F12 (depending on your computer model) to access the boot menu.
  3. Select “System Restore” and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. Choose the backup image and wait for the restoration process to complete.

Restoring Using File History

  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup.
  2. Click on “Restore files from a current backup”.
  3. Locate the files you need and click “Restore”.

Tips for Creating Backups

  • Regularly check your backup status and ensure that the data is up to date.
  • Use multiple storage devices (external drives, cloud storage) for better reliability.
  • Create backups before installing major Windows updates or making significant system changes.