How to Back Up Files on Windows 11 Using External Drives
You can restore lost or corrupted files on Windows 11 by using the built-in File History feature.
File History automatically creates backup copies of your personal files, such as documents and photos, on an external drive or network location. This means you can easily recover previous versions if your files get accidentally deleted or damaged.
To start recovering files, you need to have File History set up and configured to save to a storage device. This feature specifically backs up personal data, not applications or entire system settings.
How to Restore Your Files
You can browse through your saved files and pick the version you want to bring back. Follow these steps:
- Click the Start menu, search for Control Panel, and open it.
- Click on System and Security.
- Select File History.
- Click the link that says Restore personal files.
- Use the Previous or Next arrows at the bottom of the window to look through your saved versions. Find the date and time that contains the file you need.
- Click the green Restore button to bring the file back to its original spot.
If you want to save the file somewhere else, you can right-click the restore button to choose a different location. 
Handling Duplicate Files
If you try to restore a file that already exists in the folder, Windows will ask what you want to do. 
- Replace the file: This deletes your current file and replaces it with the backup.
- Skip this file: This stops the restore process for that specific file.
- Compare info: This lets you look at the file sizes and dates to see which version is newer.
Note: Administrative privileges are not required for these steps if you are restoring files within your own user account.
Summary
- File History is a simple way to recover lost or damaged documents.
- It allows you to look at different versions of your files before restoring them.
- You can choose to put files back where they were or save them in a new location.
- If a file already exists, you have options to compare or skip the restore process.
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Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
There are no options other than OneDrive for Windows 11. To use an external drive you must manually cut/paste or use third party software.