Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
You can modify most Windows 11 backup choices at Settings > Accounts > Windows backup, or by opening the Windows Backup app from Start. That page separates three jobs: OneDrive folder syncing for Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Music; Remember my apps for an installed-app list; and Remember my preferences for selected Windows settings. Use the OneDrive app’s Help & Settings > Settings > Sync and backup > Manage backup path when you want to change folder protection there. These cloud controls are not the same as File History, which saves file versions to an external drive or network location. The right configuration depends on whether you are moving settings to another PC, protecting current folders, or recovering an earlier version of a file.
Where are the Windows 11 backup controls?
The primary control surface is Settings > Accounts > Windows backup. Windows 11 also exposes the same controls through the Windows Backup app, which you can find by searching for backup from Start.
- Open Settings from the Start menu or press Windows key + I.
- Select Accounts in the left pane.
- Choose Windows backup.
- Change the folder, app-list, or preference controls described in the sections below.
Windows presents these as separate groups rather than one master backup switch. A folder can be synchronized through OneDrive while app-list and preference backup are disabled, or you can enable all of the options that your account and organization permit.
How do I change which folders Windows 11 backs up?
Use Manage sync settings in the OneDrive folder-sync section of the Windows Backup page. The documented folder choices are Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Music, and each can be turned on or off independently.
#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Windows backup.
- Under OneDrive folder syncing, select Manage sync settings.
- Review the switches for Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Music.
- Turn on the folders you want synchronized and turn off any folders you do not want included.
- Follow any confirmation Windows displays, then allow OneDrive time to apply the change.
This control works at the supported-folder level. It does not present a documented picker for arbitrary folders elsewhere on the drive or for individual files inside a selected folder. If you need protection for a different location or want historical copies, use a separate file-backup method such as File History rather than treating OneDrive synchronization as a complete local backup.
What happens when a folder is turned off?
Turning off a folder removes it from the set of folders that Windows is asking OneDrive to synchronize. The setting changes synchronization scope; it is not the same control as creating or deleting a File History archive. Read any confirmation dialog carefully before accepting it, especially on a PC where the folder is already being used from another device.
How do I stop Windows from backing up an app list?
Use the Remember my apps control on the Windows Backup page. This option concerns a list of installed apps that Windows can remember for a later setup; it is separate from synchronizing the app’s data and separate from storing an installer or a complete disk image.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute- Open Settings > Accounts > Windows backup.
- Find Remember my apps.
- Switch the control off to stop Windows from remembering the app list, or switch it on when you want that list associated with your account.
Microsoft states that this control is unavailable for work or school accounts and that Windows does not remember apps for those accounts. If you are signed in with an organizational account, an absent switch is therefore expected rather than evidence that Settings is malfunctioning.
Which Windows preferences can I include in backup?
The Remember my preferences group lets you choose categories instead of treating every Windows preference as one indivisible setting. Microsoft’s Windows Backup settings catalog identifies accessibility, accounts and Wi-Fi information, personalization, language preferences, and other Windows settings as selectable categories.
| Preference category | What it is intended to carry | Important condition |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Selected accessibility-related Windows choices | Availability can be affected by account or organizational policy. |
| Accounts and Wi-Fi information | Account-related settings and saved Wi-Fi information covered by Windows Backup | Use caution on shared or managed PCs; an organization can restrict synchronization. |
| Personalization | Personalization choices such as the Windows appearance settings covered by the service | Microsoft requires OneDrive sign-in and sufficient available storage for personalization backup. |
| Language preferences | Selected language and related language settings | The available checkbox is controlled by the Windows Backup page and account policy. |
| Other Windows settings | Additional Windows configuration, including device, File Explorer, and notification preferences when permitted | Organizational policy can prevent these settings from synchronizing. |
- In Settings > Accounts > Windows backup, expand Remember my preferences.
- Clear the checkbox for any category you do not want synchronized.
- Leave selected only the categories you want Windows to associate with your account.
- If a category is unavailable, check whether the PC uses a work or school account or is managed by an organization.
These preference checkboxes are independent of the folder switches. Disabling personalization does not automatically disable Documents synchronization, and turning off folder synchronization does not by itself clear every preference category.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
What is included in “Other Windows settings”?
When organizational policy permits it, Microsoft says Other Windows settings can synchronize device settings such as printer and mouse options, File Explorer settings, and notification preferences. It is a broader category than the specifically named accessibility, language, or personalization groups.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallUse this checkbox when your goal is to make a replacement or additional Windows 11 device behave more like the original. Leave it clear when you want a narrower transfer and do not want hardware-related or interface choices carried to another machine. The actual set of settings that becomes available can vary with account type and policy, so the checkboxes visible on your PC are the authoritative list.
Can I change folder backup from the OneDrive app?
Yes. OneDrive provides a parallel route for the supported-folder choices, which is useful when you are already working from the cloud-sync client rather than Windows Settings.
- Select the OneDrive cloud icon in the Windows notification area.
- Open Help & Settings, then select Settings.
- Open the Sync and backup tab.
- Choose Manage backup.
- Toggle the supported folders that you do not want backed up, or enable the ones you want protected.
The OneDrive route and the Windows Backup page address the same general folder-protection area, but the labels and available choices can differ for work or school accounts. Microsoft recommends contacting an IT administrator when an option is unavailable on a managed account.
Why are some Windows Backup options missing?
Account type and organizational policy are the most important reasons. Microsoft specifically notes that Remember my apps is unavailable for work or school accounts, and policy can also restrict other settings, including the broader “Other Windows settings” category.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
- Personal Microsoft account: The documented Windows Backup categories are generally presented, subject to OneDrive sign-in and available storage where required.
- Work or school account: The organization can hide, disable, or limit controls. Microsoft says apps are not remembered for these accounts.
- Insufficient OneDrive storage: Personalization backup requires sufficient available storage, so storage capacity is a prerequisite for that category.
- Different Windows builds or policies: Labels and the exact checkboxes shown can vary. Use the controls actually displayed on your Windows Backup page rather than assuming every PC has the same list.
Do not try to work around a managed setting by changing registry values or installing another sync client. If the page identifies the device as managed or a required option is absent, ask the organization’s IT administrator which backup policy applies.
Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
Do I need an external hard drive for Windows 11 backup?
You do not need an external drive for the OneDrive-based Windows Backup controls, which use your Microsoft cloud account. You do need an external drive or a network location for File History, a separate Windows feature designed to keep earlier versions of personal files.
| Approach | Storage destination | What it protects | Main recovery goal | Account or policy considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows Backup folder syncing | Microsoft cloud through OneDrive | Supported user folders: Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Music | Keep selected folders available across devices and associated with your account | OneDrive sign-in and storage apply; work or school policy can change the choices. |
| Remember my apps | Windows account backup service | An installed-app list, not a copy of each app’s files | Help Windows remember apps during a later setup | Unavailable for work or school accounts; Windows does not remember apps for those accounts. |
| Remember my preferences | Windows account backup service | Selected accessibility, account/Wi-Fi, personalization, language, and other settings | Carry selected configuration to another Windows setup | Personalization needs OneDrive sign-in and sufficient storage; policy can restrict categories. |
| File History | External drive or network location | Continuously saved copies of personal files | Browse and restore an earlier version after loss, damage, or an accidental change | Requires the external or network destination; it is separate from Windows Backup cloud configuration. |
Choose the cloud controls when your priority is carrying folders and selected settings to another PC. Choose File History when your priority is going back to an earlier version of a file. Many households use the two for different recovery goals, but they should not be confused: folder synchronization is not a versioned archive.
How does File History differ from OneDrive folder syncing?
File History continuously saves copies of personal files to an external drive or network location, allowing earlier versions to be browsed and restored after a file is lost, damaged, or accidentally modified. OneDrive folder syncing, by contrast, keeps selected folders associated with the cloud service and changes which folders participate when you use its management controls.
Recommended Free Tools
This difference determines which setting to change:
- Use Manage sync settings or OneDrive’s Manage backup when the question is “Which of my standard user folders should synchronize?”
- Use Remember my apps when the question is “Should Windows retain an app list for setup?”
- Use Remember my preferences when the question is “Which Windows configuration categories should follow my account?”
- Use File History when the question is “How can I retrieve the version of a personal file from before it was changed or deleted?”
An external USB hard drive is therefore relevant to a File History plan, not a prerequisite for changing the OneDrive-based Windows Backup switches.
What should I check before changing the configuration?
A short check prevents most surprises when you narrow or expand the backup scope.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
- Identify the recovery goal: Decide whether you are preparing another PC, synchronizing working folders, or preserving older file versions.
- Confirm the signed-in account: Note whether Windows uses a personal Microsoft account or a work or school account.
- Check OneDrive capacity: Personalization backup requires sufficient available storage, and synchronized folders also consume cloud capacity.
- List the folders you actually use: Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Music are separate choices; do not assume enabling one enables the others.
- Review sensitive categories: Accounts, Wi-Fi information, device settings, and notifications may not be appropriate to carry to every device.
- Plan a local versioned copy if needed: If recovering previous file versions matters, arrange an external drive or network location for File History.
How can I troubleshoot a backup setting that will not change?
Start with the exact control and account involved instead of treating every backup problem as a OneDrive failure.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
The folder switch is missing
Open the OneDrive cloud icon and check Help & Settings > Settings > Sync and backup > Manage backup as well as Settings > Accounts > Windows backup. If both paths omit the choice, the account or organizational policy may be limiting it; Microsoft recommends asking an IT administrator for managed accounts.
Remember my apps cannot be selected
Check whether the PC is signed in with a work or school account. Microsoft documents this option as unavailable for those accounts, so changing unrelated folder switches will not make it appear.
Personalization will not synchronize
Verify that you are signed in to OneDrive and that sufficient storage is available. Both are stated prerequisites for personalization backup; a policy restriction can also affect what the page permits.
Settings appear to sync, but files need an older version
Windows Backup and OneDrive folder controls are not the File History interface. Use an external drive or network location with File History for the version-browsing and restore scenario Microsoft describes.
The OneDrive and Settings labels do not match
Microsoft notes that settings can differ for work or school accounts. Compare the options visible in both documented paths, and treat the account’s policy as the deciding factor rather than forcing a control that is not offered.
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Which Windows 11 backup configuration should I use?
For most personal PCs, enable only the supported folders you actively use, select preference categories that should follow your account, and enable app-list backup if you want Windows to remember installed apps during a future setup. Add File History on an external drive or network location when you need recoverable earlier versions of files rather than cloud synchronization alone.
For a managed work or school PC, configure only what the organization exposes. Missing switches are often policy decisions, and Microsoft’s guidance is to contact the IT administrator instead of attempting to bypass them. Revisit the Windows Backup page after changing accounts, storage, or device-management status because those conditions determine which controls are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Windows 11 back up a folder outside the five standard OneDrive folders?
The documented Windows Backup and OneDrive controls expose Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Music. They do not document an arbitrary-folder picker, so a different location requires a separate backup method rather than another checkbox on this page.
Does Windows Backup make a complete image of my PC?
The listed Windows Backup controls cover selected user folders, an app list, and preference categories. They are not described as a complete disk-image or bare-metal recovery feature; use a purpose-built system-imaging solution if that is your recovery requirement.
Can File History restore an application itself?
Microsoft describes File History as saving copies of personal files to an external drive or network location. Its documented purpose is browsing and restoring file versions, not reinstalling Windows applications or recreating app licenses.
Why might two Windows 11 PCs show different backup checkboxes?
The account type and organizational policy can change the available controls. Microsoft also states that work or school settings can differ, so a managed PC may intentionally show fewer choices than a personal PC.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
