Using File History for Backup and Restoration of Files on Windows

Key Notes

File History allows automatic backups of user files on external or network drives.
Backups include critical folders like Documents, Music, Pictures, and Videos by default.
Custom folders can be added if included in a system library.

Mastering File History Setup: A Comprehensive Guide for Windows 10 and 11 Users

In this guide, we will explore the importance and process of setting up File History on Windows, ensuring your files stay safe and recoverable.

Setting Up File History on Windows 10 and 11

File History is a built-in backup solution that helps users secure their files on Windows 10 and 11. It automates the process of backing up important directories to either external drives or network locations. Follow the steps below to set it up effectively and protect your valuable data.

Setup File History Backup to an External USB Drive

Begin by connecting an external USB drive to your computer and then proceed with the following steps:

Open Start.
Type in Control Panel and select it from the results.
Navigate to System and Security.
Click on File History.
Click the Turn On button if your backup drive is already listed.
(Optional) Access Advanced Settings from the left pane.
Adjust the frequency of backups using the Save copies of files setting in the Advanced settings section.
Choose how long to retain backups with the Keep saved versions setting.
Hit the Save changes button to apply your settings.
(Optional) Click on Exclude Folders in the left pane.
Click the Add button to select folders for exclusion.
Select the folder to omit from your backup process.
Click Select Folder and confirm your choice.
Finish by clicking Save changes again.

After completing these steps, your files will begin backing up to your connected external drive automatically.

Setup File History Backup to a Network Folder

For backing up files to a network location, follow these instructions:

Open Start.
Type Control Panel and select the application from the search results.
Go to System and Security.
Click on File History.
Select Select Drive from the left pane.
Click Add network location.
Choose the network folder where you’d like to back up your files.
Click Select Folder.
Press OK.
Activate File History by clicking Turn on.
(Optional) Navigate to Advanced Settings for additional options.
Set the frequency of backups and retention settings similarly to previous steps.
Save the changes to finalize your setup.

Upon completing these steps, your files will back up automatically to the selected network location.

Add Custom Folder Locations to File History

To enhance your backup strategy, include custom folder locations from secondary drives by adding them to system libraries. Here’s how:

Open File Explorer (use Windows key + E ).
Navigate to the folder you wish to include in the backup.
Hold Shift and right-click the folder, selecting Include in library, then opt for Create new library.
(Optional) Rename your new library to something fitting, such as “File History”.
(Optional) Repeat the process for any other folders you want to include in your backup.

Now your File History will encompass the specified custom folders, ensuring their protection.

Restore Files from File History on Windows

If you need to recover files that you’ve backed up with File History, follow these steps:

Open Start.
Search for Control Panel and select it from the results.
Click on System and Security.
Access File History.
Click Restore personal files from the left pane.
Navigate through the versions to find the backup you want to restore.
Highlight the files you wish to recover and click the restore button (green arrow).

Afterward, the selected files will be restored to their original locations on your Windows device.

File History vs. Full Backup Solutions

It’s crucial to distinguish that while File History serves as a form of backup, it targets occasional file recovery rather than a comprehensive restore solution following a clean installation or complete file loss. If you need to back up all files and have a full restoration option, consider creating a complete system backup or using full disk imaging software.

Even though File History still provides an automated backup function, recent updates have relegated it away from quick access in the Settings app in favor of OneDrive subscriptions for cloud storage. If a local backup is your priority, however, you can still leverage File History via Control Panel.

Update August 12, 2024: This guide ensures accuracy reflecting the latest procedural changes.

Additional Tips

Always confirm that your external drives are connected before scheduled backups.
Consider testing your backup restoration process periodically to ensure your data’s safety.
Configure OneDrive for cloud storage as an additional safety net for critical files.

Summary

File History offers an efficient way to back up and restore your files on Windows. By following the outlined steps to set up external or network backups, users can secure crucial data seamlessly and respond effectively to data loss situations.

Conclusion

Implementing File History is a proactive step towards safeguarding your critical files. By familiarizing yourself with the setup and restoration processes, you are empowered to protect your data from loss or corruption effectively. Don’t wait for data loss to occur—get started with backups today!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is File History?

File History is a Windows feature that allows users to back up files automatically to an external or network drive.

Can I back up files from OneDrive using File History?

Yes, but the files must be configured to be available offline on your device.

Alex Ruben

My goal is to make complex technical topics simple and accessible. On this site, I gather unique and useful content that not only solves users problems but also helps them better understand the capabilities of Windows.