Are you aware of how to use the Windows file history tool to backup your data? Windows file history tool is considered to be the number one backup tool in a Windows 10 machine. Many people do not know how to use the Windows file history. Some of them are not aware that it can be used as a backup tool for backing up data. Let’s see how we can use the Windows file history tool to backup your data.

Steps to Use the Windows File History for Backup

The Windows file history tool was introduced in Windows 8. It is inbuilt in Windows 10 and can be used to backup your data. It is easy to enable the Windows file history. There are not many complications involved in using the Windows file history tool compared to other backup tools provided by Windows.

To enable the Windows file history, you need to connect an external hard drive first. Now, go to settings and from there choose the option “Update & Security” and “Backup.” Click on the option “Add a drive” to add an external hard drive to backup your data. When you click on “Add a drive,” it will automatically detect the external hard drive you have connected to the system so that Windows file history can use it to backup your data.

Steps to Configure Windows File History to Backup Your Data

To configure the Windows file history, go to Settings and choose “More Options.” Here, you can set how often the Windows file history needs to backup your data and how much long it needs to keep it. By default, Windows file history will take a backup every one hour and keep the backup forever. You can make changes here depending upon your interest.

Add a Specific Folder: By default, Windows file history will make the backup of important folders like Desktop, Documents, Music, Video, Downloads, etc. It also takes the backup of folders that contain roaming data. If you wish to add a specific folder, by clicking on the “Add a Folder” option you can select whichever folder you need the system to backup. There is also a “Remove” button that allows you to remove those folders whose backup you don’t need.

Exclude Files and Save: There is another option called “Exclude this folder.” This option lets you exclude subfolders that you don’t want to backup. The “Stop using drive” option lets you choose a different backup path where you want your backup files to be stored. Once you’re done with the changes, click on the “Backup Now” button to start making the backup.

Steps to Restore Files from Backup

To restore the files, you need to go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup and then select “More Options.” Now, scroll down and select the option “Restore files from the current backup.”

Conclusion

Windows file history tool is an excellent tool that is available in Windows 10 that can be used to backup your data on a regular basis so that you don’t lose any important files.