Computer Tricks and Secrets

Short answer: the best free Windows backup combines the built-in tools (File History for your files, plus a full system image) with a free imaging app like Macrium Reflect Free for disaster recovery. The tool matters less than having a real plan, so here are the free options and exactly how to set up backups that will actually save you. Built into Windows (start here, free) File History: automatically backs up your personal files (Documents, Photos, Desktop) to an external drive on a schedule. Settings > search "File History". OneDrive: syncs key folders to the cloud, an off-site copy for free (with storage limits). System image: the classic "Backup and Restore (Windows 7)" tool still makes a full-drive image you can restore from. Free imaging apps (for full-disk disaster recovery) Macrium Reflect Free , makes a complete image of your drive so you can restore Windows, apps and files exactly. My pick for disaster recovery. EaseUS Todo Backup Free ...