Protecting your data is imperative in today’s dynamic technological age, as identity theft is rampant. In Windows 11, Microsoft has made copying your valuable documents to another hard drive relatively straightforward. This is not only reassuring to the user but can also offer a backup in case the system does not work or data is lost.
As for automatic backups in Windows 11, configuring new backups can be easily performed, and this guide will be helpful for both advanced and novice computer users. Below is a step-by-step guide outlining how to shield your information effectively.
This article will teach you how to create automatic backups for your Windows 11 operating system.
Step 1: To External Hard Drive
First, connect the external hard drive to your computer. Always use the blue port or the one labelled with the SS logo for a higher transfer rate. Ensure the system can ‘‘see’’ the drive; it should be listed under’ r Devices and drives’’ in ‘‘This PC.’’
Step 2: Go to File History
Click the Start button and then go to the settings menu. In the settings menu, look for the '‘Update &Security’y’ group and select ‘‘Backup’’.’ Windows 11 utilizes the File History feature to orchestrate backups; you can access it here.
Step 3: Add a Drive for File History
Click’‘Add a drive’’ and select your external hard drive from the list. This sets your external drive as the primary location for backups.
Step 4: Configure File History
After choosing your drive, turn on File History. This activates the automatic backup feature. You can then select which folders to back up and adjust settings like backup frequency and retention period.
Step 5: Set Backup Frequency and Select Folders
In the ‘‘More options’’ link, you can decide how often to back up your files—whether hourly, daily, or at another interval. You can also choose which folders to include in the backup.
Step 6: Run the Backup
You can start the backup manually or let it run automatically based on your schedule. File History does not back up OneDrive folders or your entire system.
Step 7: Store the Backup Safely
Once the backup is finished, it’s a good idea to disconnect the external hard drive and store it in a secure location to protect it from physical damage or unauthorised access.
Tips for a Smooth Backup Experience
- Regularly Check Backups: Sometimes, it is useful to check that backups are working and that your files are being backed up correctly.
- Keep the Drive Connected: Connect the external hard drive to your computer for continuous file copying or to create backups that run automatically in the background.
- Use a Reliable Drive: Check that the external hard drive is properly working and is large enough to hold your backups.
Following the steps outlined above, safeguarding the data against various unexpected occurrences may be possible. It is highly crucial to have frequent backups in the digital era, and it saves a lot of trouble if lost.
