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Enable or Disable File History in Windows 11

Richard

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The article guides on switching File History on/off in Windows 11, a built-in backup tool that saves user files and folders. The feature can be controlled via the Control Panel or local group policy editor. It automatically remains off if suitable backup locations, such as external or network drives, aren’t available.

This post shows students and new users steps to turn File History on or off when using Windows 11. File History is a built-in Windows backup tool to back up all folders in a user’s home directory and files, including documents, music, pictures, videos, and desktops.

In cases where the original files are lost or damaged, users can then use the backup versions created by File History to restore them. File History also allows you to browse a backup timeline, select the version you want, and restore it.

By default, File History backs up all the files and folders in a user home directory (C:\Users\Username). You can also include additional folders and locations to backup.

File History is automatically not enabled when there are no suitable locations to backup up. You can only back up to an externally connected drive, such as a USB drive, or save to a network drive. File History will not be used if none of these locations are available.

Read our previous post on How to Backup Windows 11.

Follow the steps below to turn File History on or off Windows 11.

How to turn off File History on Windows 11

If you want to turn off File History on Windows 11, use the steps below.

Go to the Start menu, search for the Control Panel app, and open it.

When the Control Panel opens, go to the System and Security category group.

Next, click on File History, as highlighted below.

On the File History settings pane, click the Turn off File History button.

How to turn off File History via local group policy

Users can also turn off File History via the local group policy editor. To get there, click on the Start menu, then search for and open the Edit group policy.

When the local group policy editor opens, navigate to the folder paths below:

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\File History

Double-click the Turnoff File History settings on the right to open. When the settings open, check the box next to Enable to disable File History.

How to enable File History on Windows 11

If you change your mind about File History and you want to re-enable File History, simply reverse the steps above. If disabled in group policy, navigate to the File History settings and check the box next to Not Configured.

Next, go to the Control Panel, System and Security category ==> File History, and click the Turn on File History button.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

  • File History is an essential backup tool in Windows 11, allowing users to save copies of their important files automatically.
  • Users can easily turn File History on or off through the Control Panel or the local group policy editor, giving them flexibility based on their backup needs.
  • Enabling File History ensures that valuable files such as documents, music, pictures, and videos are safeguarded against accidental loss or damage.
  • Reviewing and adjusting File History settings can help maintain optimal backup performance and security.
  • Consider exploring additional resources and guides on Windows 11 backup strategies for further information.
Richard Avatar
Richard
Richard, the owner and lead writer at Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast passionate about simplifying complex IT topics. His years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations have honed his ability to provide practical insights 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. He enjoys watching football, cheering for the Minnesota Vikings, and spending time with his family when he’s not writing or managing Geek Rewind.

Comments

  1. luca Avatar
    luca

    Hi,
    you can find the exact same document here no sure who copies who.

    You wrote at the beginning “You can also include additional folders and location to backup.”. However, this option is not there. Could you explain how to do it? Is there any way other than modifying the configuration files under %localappdata%?

    thank you

    Reply
    1. Richard Avatar
      Richard

      During the setup, you’ll have options to add additional folders to backup.

      Reply
      1. luca Avatar
        luca

        Sorry, i tried to make a setup in a virtual machine and i did not see any option to add additional folders to backup. Could you kindly show how?

        Reply

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