Backing up your Windows PC is crucial to ensure you don’t lose important data in case of hardware failure, theft, or other disasters. In this guide, we’ll cover the built-in Windows backup options, as well as using the legacy shadow copy (Windows 7 version) of backup from the control panel.
Option 1:
Windows Backup Windows Backup is a built-in feature that allows you to back up your entire PC or selected files and folders to an external hard drive or network location. Here’s how to use it:
- Connect your external hard drive or choose a network location where you want to save your backup.
- Type “backup” in the Windows search bar and select “Backup settings” from the results.
- Click “Add a drive” to select your backup location.
- Under “Back up now,” click “More options” to choose the files and folders you want to include in the backup.
- Click “Back up now” to start the backup process.
Option 2:
Shadow Copy (Windows 7 version) Shadow Copy is a built-in feature in Windows that allows you to restore previous versions of files and folders. Here’s how to use it for backup:
- Type “Control Panel” in the Windows search bar and select it from the results.
- Select “System and Security” and then “File History.”
- Click “System Image Backup” on the bottom left.
- Follow the prompts to create a system image of your PC, which includes Windows and all your files.
Option 3:
3rd Party Backup Software There are many 3rd party backup software options available that offer additional features and customization options. Some popular options include Acronis True Image, EaseUS Todo Backup, and Norton Backup.
In conclusion, backing up your Windows PC is important, and there are several options available to ensure your data is safe and secure.