Windows 8 Backup vs. Windows 7 Backup: Key Differences
A New Approach to Data Protection: Windows 8's File History
The Windows 8 operating system introduces a significantly altered backup solution. File History, as it’s known, supersedes the Windows Backup functionality found in Windows 7. Users upgrading from Windows 7 will observe notable distinctions between the two systems.
The Need for Redesign
Microsoft undertook a redesign of its backup capabilities due to extremely low adoption rates. Less than 5% of personal computers were utilizing Windows Backup prior to the release of Windows 8.
The primary goal of the new File History system is to provide a streamlined and automated experience. It’s intended to operate seamlessly in the background, requiring minimal user intervention.
Key Differences Between File History and Windows Backup
This article will detail the variances between File History and the Windows Backup feature that many users previously employed in Windows 7.
For a comprehensive guide to utilizing the new system, refer to our detailed walkthrough of Windows 8's File History functionality.
Understanding these changes is crucial for ensuring your data remains secure during and after the transition to Windows 8.
Backup Limitations in Windows 8 Compared to Windows 7
Windows 7 offered comprehensive backup capabilities, allowing users to safeguard all data on their computers. This included personal files, program installations, and critical system files. Furthermore, complete system images could be generated for full system restoration.
A significant shift in approach occurred with Windows 8. The ability to create full system images was removed, and backing up the entire hard drive became impossible.
Restricted Backup Scope in Windows 8
Windows 8's backup functionality is now limited to files residing within your libraries, items on the desktop, contact information, and saved browser favorites.
The File History feature in Windows 8 prioritizes the protection of personal files, recognizing their irreplaceable nature. Reinstallation of operating systems and applications is considered a viable alternative to backing up system-level components.
Working Within the Windows 8 Backup System
To include a folder not initially part of a library in the backup process, it must first be added to a library. Windows 8 will then back up the contents of that library.
While files within a library can be excluded from backups, the system prevents the inclusion of files located outside of libraries or the desktop.
This represents a focused strategy, prioritizing user data over complete system mirroring.
Continuous Data Protection
File History provides a mechanism for ongoing data backup, enabling effortless restoration of prior file versions or recovery of accidentally deleted files. This approach significantly reduces the potential for data loss; even in the event of system failure, minimal data will be irretrievable due to recent backups.
The standard backup configuration within Windows 7’s Windows Backup utility initiates a backup process on a monthly schedule.
Backup Frequency in Windows 7
Historically, Windows 7’s backup system was configured to perform a full backup only once a month.
Enhanced Backup in Windows 8
In contrast, Windows 8 implements a continuous backup system by default. This automatically creates snapshots of your most recent files at hourly intervals.
This frequent snapshotting provides a more granular recovery point objective, allowing users to revert to versions of files created very recently.
- Windows 7: Monthly backups.
- Windows 8: Hourly continuous backups.
The shift to continuous backup in Windows 8 represents a substantial improvement in data protection capabilities.
Simplified File Recovery Through Backup
File History builds upon the functionality of Previous Versions, a feature present in Windows 7. This allows for the swift retrieval of earlier iterations of any given file. The process of restoring files using File History mirrors this ease of use.
Restoration can be initiated directly within File Explorer – previously known as Windows Explorer – by simply selecting the History button located on the ribbon interface.
A Contrast with Windows 7
In contrast to Windows 7, where file restoration necessitated navigating to the Windows Backup control panel and utilizing the Restore My Files wizard, Windows 8 streamlines this process.
While Windows 7 permitted restoring a file’s prior version via its properties window, the source of that version wasn't always a dedicated backup. It could originate from a system restore point, for example.
File History ensures that restored versions are specifically sourced from your defined backups.
- This provides greater control and reliability.
- It clarifies the origin of the restored data.
The integration within File Explorer offers a more intuitive and accessible method for recovering older file versions.
Additional Capabilities of File History
Beyond its core functionality, Windows 8’s File History incorporates several features designed to align with typical user backup behaviors. The setup process, for instance, has been streamlined; upon connecting an external hard drive, users are prompted regarding its use for backup purposes.
A key change is the restriction of backups to external drives or network locations. Utilizing an internal drive for backups is no longer supported. This policy promotes sound backup strategies, as backing up to another partition on the same physical disk offers no protection against complete data loss in the event of a drive failure.
HomeGroup Integration
During the File History configuration, an option exists to share the backup drive within a HomeGroup. This allows all Windows 8 computers connected to the HomeGroup to utilize this location for their backups, simplifying the creation of a centralized backup solution.
This feature facilitates easy data protection across multiple devices within a household or small office network.
Suitability and Comparison
While File History isn't universally applicable, some users will still prefer comprehensive, third-party backup solutions capable of full system imaging and complete file backups.
However, for the typical user, Windows 8’s File History offers a more accessible and potentially more effective backup experience compared to the more complex backup tool found in Windows 7.
- Ease of Use: File History is designed for simplicity.
- Centralized Backup: HomeGroup integration enables shared backup locations.
- Data Protection: Restrictions on internal drive backups enhance data security.
Related Posts
Touchscreen on Windows PC: Do You Need It?
Find Lost Windows or Office Product Keys - Easy Guide
Windows 10 Resetting Settings: Why It Happens & How to Fix
Monitor FPS in UWP Games on Windows 10 - A Simple Guide
Remove 'Get Windows 10' Icon & Stop Upgrade Notifications
