Windows settings backup and restore

Information

Windows settings backup and restore is a feature in Intune that stores users' device settings and Microsoft Store app configurations, making it easier to switch PCs or reinstall.

NOTE: This is only supported on personal machines.

Backup

Backup happens seamlessly and without the user having to do anything at all:

• The scheduled backup task runs automatically every eighth day, backing up user settings, preferences, and the list of installed Microsoft Store apps.
• Alternatively, the user can start a backup manually by searching for the Windows Backup app in the Windows search box and selecting "Back up now".

Restore

The restore process can currently be started during the out-of-box experience (OOBE), when the user signs in with their UiO user account. The following steps show how to restore:

1. The user turns on a new or reinstalled device and starts the out-of-box experience (OOBE).
2. During OOBE, the user signs in with the same user@uio.no account that was used for the backup.
3. After the sign-in screen, the restore page is displayed. The user can choose to restore a backup from a previous device or set up the device as new.

1. To restore settings and any Microsoft Store apps from a previous device, the user selects the device and then Continue.
2. The remaining enrollment process is the same as the standard setup.
3. When enrollment is complete and the user reaches the desktop, all previously backed-up settings and Microsoft Store apps are automatically restored.

User experience

When the feature is enabled, the user can manage backup settings directly in Settings by going to Accounts > Windows backup.

• To turn off backup of preferences, the user can disable the "Remember my preferences" toggle.
• To turn off backup of the list of installed Microsoft Store apps, the user can disable the "Remember my apps" toggle.