windows 10 / 11 file history as backup

 windows 10 / 11 file history as backup

In Windows 10 and 11, File History can be used as a backup solution for your personal files. It automatically creates backups of specific folders (like Documents, Pictures, Music, etc.) to an external drive or network location. You can configure File History to back up files to a specified drive, adjust the backup frequency, and even exclude certain folders from the backup process. 

Here's how to set up and use File History:

1. Connect a backup drive: Ensure you have an external hard drive or network location where you want to store your backups. 
2. Open File History settings: You can access it through Settings > Update & Security > Backup (in Windows 10) or by searching for "File History" in the Start menu. 
3. Select a backup drive: Choose the drive where you want to store the backups. 
4. Turn on File History: Toggle the "Turn on" switch to activate File History. 
5. Customize settings (optional):
   • Add or exclude folders: You can add specific folders to be backed up or exclude folders from the backup. 
   • Set backup frequency: Choose how often you want File History to back up your files (e.g., hourly, daily). 
   • Advanced settings: You can also configure how long to keep backup copies. 

Restoring files with File History:

1. Navigate to the File History folder: Locate the backup folder on your designated drive.
2. Browse and select files: Find the specific file or folder you want to restore.
3. Copy to a new location: You can copy the file or folder back to its original location or a different location. 

For a more complete system backup, including apps and settings, consider using Windows Backup,