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How to backup and restore data on Windows?

Backing up and restoring data on Windows can be accomplished through several methods. One common approach is using File History, a built-in feature that automatically backs up files in the Documents, Music, Pictures, Videos, and Desktop folders.

Backup:
To enable File History, follow these steps:

  1. Connect an external drive to your computer.
  2. Open the Control Panel and go to "System and Security" > "File History."
  3. Click "Turn on" to start the backup process. File History will back up your files every hour by default.

Restore:
To restore a file from a backup:

  1. Open File Explorer and navigate to the folder where the file was originally located.
  2. Click on "History" in the top menu.
  3. Browse through the backups and select the version of the file you want to restore.
  4. Click "Restore" to bring the file back to its original location or a new location of your choice.

Another method is using Windows Backup, which allows you to create system images and backups of files and folders.

Backup with Windows Backup:

  1. Open the Control Panel and go to "System and Security" > "Backup and Restore (Windows 7)."
  2. Click "Create a system image" and follow the prompts to select the drive you want to back up and the destination for the backup.

Restore with Windows Backup:

  1. Boot from the Windows installation media if your system is not bootable.
  2. Select "Repair your computer" and go to "Advanced options" > "System Image Recovery."
  3. Follow the prompts to select the system image and restore your computer.

For more advanced backup solutions, consider using cloud storage services like Tencent Cloud's COS (Cloud Object Storage), which offers reliable and scalable data storage and backup capabilities.