Upgrading to a new Windows PC is exciting, but transferring your files, applications, and settings can seem daunting. Fortunately, Windows Backup provides a simple way to move your important data from your old PC to your new one seamlessly.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you're signed in with a Microsoft account on your old PC. If you don't have one, you'll need to create it, as Windows Backup stores your backup data in OneDrive, Microsoft's cloud storage service.

Note: Windows Backup is only available for personal Microsoft accounts; work and school accounts are not supported. Additionally, OneDrive offers 5GB of free storage. If your backup exceeds this limit, consider upgrading to a Microsoft 365 plan for more space.

It's also important to have installation files ready for any traditional desktop applications you use, as Windows Backup does not back up these apps. Be prepared to reinstall them on your new PC.

Backing up data with Windows Backup

Step 1: On your old PC, open the Start menu, type Windows Backup, and select the app from the search results.

Step 2: In the Windows Backup app, you'll see four backup options: Folders, Apps, Settings, and Credentials. Click the downward arrow next to each option to expand and configure them.

Step 3: Within each option, select the specific items you want to back up. For example, under Settings, choose items like Accessibility or Personalization. Customize your backup according to your needs.

Step 4: After selecting the items to back up, click the 'Back Up' button at the bottom right corner to initiate the backup process.

Step 5: The app will prompt you to sign in to your Microsoft account. Click 'Sign In' to proceed.

Step 6: Enter your Microsoft email address in the pop-up window and click 'Next'.

Step 7: Enter your Microsoft account password and sign in.

Step 8: Windows Backup will begin uploading your selected data to OneDrive.

Step 9: Once the backup is complete, a confirmation message will appear in the app. Depending on your selections, the backup may be partial or full.

Setting up your new PC

Step 1: Power on your new Windows 11 PC and begin the initial setup. When prompted, sign in with the same Microsoft account you used for the backup.

Step 2: During the setup, you'll be notified that backups from your previous PC are available. Select the backup from your old PC to restore your data.

Step 3: Click 'Restore From This PC' to begin restoring your apps and settings. The setup process will continue while your data is being restored.

Step 4: After the setup is complete, log in to your new PC. Your files and settings from the old PC should now be available.

Note: Remember to manually reinstall any desktop applications that were not included in the backup.

Windows Backup streamlines the process of transferring your data to a new PC, ensuring that your important files and settings are carried over with ease. By utilizing OneDrive for backups, you also benefit from having your data securely stored in the cloud.