Windows 11 cloud backup is getting a whole lot better at last

Microsoft unveils a new Windows 11 backup app

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

Microsofthas announced details of an extended and much-improvedbackupexperience coming toWindows 11designed to make transitioning between existing and new devices much smoother.

A designated Windows Backup app is set to be users’ main interface for creating backups - though a second entry via Settings > Accounts > Windows Backup is also available - which makes backups available to new devices as part of the out-of-box experience.

Microsoftsaysthat “the goal of these changes is to land users on a desktop that feels familiar to them and get them back to productivity within minutes on their new PC,” offering up an experience similar to that of Time Machine on macOS though lacking in external hard drive capabilities.

Backup Windows 11 to the cloud

Backup Windows 11 to the cloud

It appears that Windows Backup currently only works withcloud storagelike OneDrive, though the pricing is reasonably on par with competition and many users will find them paying for the service anyway for access to up-to-date versions of Microsoft Office.

These are the best free office software choices>Why the 3-2-1 backup strategy is obsolete>Ransomware attackers are going after backup storage to force you to pay up

TechRadar Prohas asked Microsoft to confirm details of third-party cloud integration, and whether the company has any plans to accept physical backup locations likeexternal hard drives, or even network-attached storage (NAS).

From early previews, it looks like the backup experience is designed to be an all-in-one solution with support for files and folders, apps, settings, and login credentials. The tool also promises to restore specific settings like taskbar and Start menu app pinning.

Full details for the upgraded backup experience are yet to be announced, given that it is currently being rolled out inWindows 11Insider Preview Build 23466, however once it has been made generally available it will give Windows users one less reason to rely on another third-partycloud backup tool, helping to reduce subscriptions and costs.

Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter

Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!

With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!

Google puts Nvidia on high alert as it showcases Trillium, its rival AI chip, while promising to bring H200 Tensor Core GPUs within days

A new form of macOS malware is being used by devious North Korean hackers

OLED vs Mini-LED: which TV type is best?