The procedures of backing up your computer are one of the most crucial procedures that you can employ in order to ensure that you save your files, applications, settings and operating systems, in case of some eventuality coming along and wiping it all out. In case you are using Windows 10, you can use several secure ways to take the complete backup of your system, whether you are looking ahead to backup your data in an external hard drive or making the complete system picture. This is our go-to-tutorial, so we are about to take you through all that you need to know about backing up Windows 10, how to create, administer and even restore your information using any of the built-in backup tools in Windows, and how to best keep your digital life secure. This guide by the company Digital Bulls brings you the most reliable Windows support and installation solutions.
A failure of computers might be caused by hardware reasons, virus attack, software bugs or even a misplaced deleted operation. Full PC backup enables you to restore complete state of your system including files, applications, settings as well as your windows operating system to previous working condition. Being a student, business user, or having no need except the great rest of mind, you will realize how to backup Windows 10, and this way, you will be spared of wasted hours or even days of worry.
There are multiple ways to perform a Windows 10 system backup, depending on your needs.
This method saves only your documents, pictures, videos, and other personal files.
This is a complete full system backup or bare metal backup that includes your operating system, apps, drivers, and settings — a snapshot of your entire hard drive.
Saving your backup to an external hard drive adds an extra layer of protection. Even if your PC fails, your data is safe and can be restored quickly.
Cloud solutions like OneDrive or third-party tools allow for secure off-site storage of your most important files.
Windows 10 comes with two primary built-in backup features: File History and Backup and Restore (Windows 7). Here’s how to use both.
File History is a simple way to backup files on Windows 10 such as documents, photos, and videos.
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup
Click on Add a drive and select your external hard drive
Turn on Automatically back up my files
Customize the folders to include
This is ideal for users who need to protect their personal files but not the entire system.
This legacy tool is still available in Windows 10 and allows you to create a system image backup.
Open the Control Panel
Click Backup and Restore (Windows 7)
Select Create a system image from the left sidebar
Choose your backup location (external drive recommended)
Follow the on-screen steps to complete the backup
You can also create a system repair disc or bootable USB in case your system becomes unbootable.
An external hard drive is the most secure and convenient location for storing your backup. It keeps your data separate from your internal system, reducing the risk of total loss.
To backup your Windows 10 laptop to an external drive, follow these steps:
Connect an external USB hard drive with enough storage space
Use either File History or System Image Backup as outlined above
Schedule regular backups to keep everything up to date
Safely disconnect the external drive once the backup is complete
If you want to perform a complete laptop backup or full system backup of Windows 10, use the System Image method:
Connect your external hard drive
Open Control Panel > Backup and Restore
Select Create a system image
Choose the drive and click Next
Click Start backup
This will create an exact copy of your entire computer, which you can restore later if your system crashes or becomes corrupted.
Restoring your computer from a backup can bring your system back to a working state after a crash, malware infection, or data loss.
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup
Click More options > Restore files from a current backup
Select the files or folders you want and click Restore
Insert the recovery drive or bootable USB
Restart your computer and boot from the recovery media
Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > System Image Recovery
Follow the prompts to restore your backup
Make sure the backup drive is connected during this process.
Follow these tips to ensure your backup strategy is safe and reliable:
Use an external hard drive with at least twice the space of your current system.
Schedule regular backups weekly or monthly.
Store backups off-site or in the cloud for extra safety.
Test restore points occasionally to ensure everything works.
Keep multiple copies if possible: local + external + cloud.
New laptops come with pre-installed applications and drivers. Creating a full system backup as soon as you set up your device will save time if you ever need to reset it.
Set up your laptop
Connect an external hard drive
Use the System Image Backup tool to create a full copy
Save a recovery USB in case the system becomes unresponsive
This ensures you can restore your laptop to its original state, including all pre-installed software and custom settings.
How often should I back up my Windows 10 PC?
It depends on how frequently you update files. Weekly or biweekly backups are recommended for regular users.
Can I back up only specific folders or drives?
Yes. With File History, you can select specific folders. For full system backups, use the System Image tool.
Is cloud backup enough?
Cloud backup is good for essential files, but for full system recovery, a local external backup is better.
What if I don’t have an external drive?
You can use a secondary internal drive or network storage, but external drives offer better security.
Can I automate backups in Windows 10?
Yes. Both File History and System Image tools allow scheduled backups.
It is important to backup your windows 10 computer to safeguard your data, application and system settings. Despite whether you want to make regular backup of important files or complete system image backup, Windows 10 has the tools to make this process simple and safe. File History only allows backing up of personal files hence combine with System Image that takes a complete duplication of the system. It is best to put the backups in an external drive or cloud and create a repeated schedule to prevent a loss of the data. For more guides, tools, and official support, visit Digital Bulls, your trusted destination for secure Windows downloads and expert help.
