How to Toggle ‘Remember My Preferences’ in Windows Backup
‘Remember My Preferences’ in Windows Backup controls whether your chosen backup settings are saved automatically for future backups.
This setting decides if Windows reapplies your custom backup choices, like which folders you pick, every time the backup runs. For example, if you tell Windows Backup in Windows 11 to always include your ‘Photos’ folder, this option determines if that choice sticks automatically.
By default, Windows 10 and 11 keep your backup settings the same each time, which saves you from having to set them up again. You can now change this behavior yourself right in the Windows Backup settings.
Open Settings, go to Accounts, then select Windows Backup. Find the ‘Remember my preferences’ toggle and click it to turn it On or Off. This immediately saves or stops saving your chosen backup settings.
What is Windows Backup?
Windows Backup is a handy tool that saves your important files, folders, and even system settings to keep them safe.
Why Toggle ‘Remember My Preferences’?
Toggling ‘Remember My Preferences’ for Windows Backup means your backup choices will stick around, even when you switch computers. This saves you time because you won’t have to set up your preferences every single time you use the backup tool.
How to Toggle ‘Remember My Preferences’
Managing your Windows Backup settings involves following these steps. Some system-wide changes, such as altering user account controls, may require administrator privileges to complete.
Step 1Open the Settings App
Click the Start menu and select Settings, or press Windows key + I.
Step 2Go to Accounts
Within the Settings menu, locate and click the ‘Accounts’ tab found on the left-hand sidebar.
Step 3Select Windows Backup
Selecting ‘Windows Backup’ opens the configuration menu for cloud synchronization settings, which manage how your files are saved to the cloud. This menu lets you manage how Windows Backup saves your files to the cloud, ensuring your data is accessible from multiple devices.
Step 4Find ‘Remember My Preferences’
Inside the Windows backup menu, look for the toggle labeled ‘Remember my preferences’.
Step 5Toggle the Switch
Click the switch to turn it On or Off. Your changes take effect immediately.
What Gets Backed Up?
When you enable ‘Remember My Preferences’, Windows syncs these settings:
- Accessibility settings
- Accounts and passwords
- Personalization options (wallpaper, colors)
- Language preferences
- Other Windows settings
Restoration and Troubleshooting
When you set up a new PC, your Windows backup preferences will restore automatically. This process ensures your preferred backup configuration is applied from the start, saving you manual adjustments on a new device.
Summary
The ‘Remember My Preferences’ feature in Windows Backup is key to making sure your settings stay the same on any computer you use.
Does Windows Backup include my browser history?
Windows Backup primarily focuses on system settings and preferences. While it syncs some app data, your specific browser history is usually managed by your browser’s own sync feature, such as Microsoft Edge sync, rather than the core Windows Backup system settings migration tool.
What happens to my preferences if I sign out of my Microsoft Account?
If you sign out of your Microsoft Account, the synchronization process stops. Your existing preferences remain on your local machine, but they will no longer be updated in the cloud. Any changes you make while signed out will not be reflected on your other devices.
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About the Author
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.
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