Windows 8 comes with several tools that help you protect your files and folders by backing them up automatically, but one feature that’s most useful is File History. The new File History can automatically backup all your documents, browser favorites, music and videos, desktop icons and more to either an external USB drive or a network location. It can also be started manually if you wish to do so.
If you want to protect yourself from accidental deletion and the lost of important documents, you may want to configure this feature to automatically backup your critically important folders to external devices like USB Flash drives or a network locations.
In this brief tutorial, I’m going to show you how setup File History in Windows 8 so that your documents are protected. This is important in that when your computer crashes, you can go back and restore the most recent files and documents from File History.
To get started with File History, insert an external USB drive into your computer then press the Windows Key + X to open Windows 8 Tools Menu. When that opens, select ‘Control Panel’ from the list.
Then, choose ‘Save backup copies of your files with File History’ from the System and Security group.
When File History opens, make sure the external device is visible, then click ‘Turn on’ to turn on File History.
After turning on, you can choose to immediately run it to begin backing up your files. It is also configured to automatically backup your file at a chosen time and date. To change the backup time and date, click ‘Advanced settings’ from the left.
On the advanced settings screen, choose how frequently you want to backup your data and how long to keep it. When you’re done, click Save.
That’s it. To restore your data in the event that it is missing or deleted, go back to File History and select Restore personal files on the left. Then click the restore button to restore the recent backup copies of all the files. You can choose which file to restore by selecting.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I automatically backup my personal files in Windows 8 using File History?
You can automatically backup your personal files in Windows 8 using File History by connecting an external USB drive to your computer, accessing the Windows 8 Tools Menu by pressing Windows Key + X, selecting 'Control Panel,' and then choosing 'Save backup copies of your files with File History.' Follow the prompts to turn on File History and configure backup settings.
What type of files can File History automatically backup in Windows 8?
File History in Windows 8 can automatically backup documents, browser favorites, music, videos, desktop icons, and more. It ensures that your critical files are protected from accidental deletion or loss by backing them up to an external USB drive or network location.
How can I manually start the backup process using File History in Windows 8?
You can manually start the backup process using File History in Windows 8 by accessing the File History settings, ensuring the external device is visible, and clicking on 'Turn on' to initiate the backup process. You also have the option to immediately run the backup or set a specific time and date for automatic backups.
What steps are involved in setting up File History for automatic backups in Windows 8?
To set up File History for automatic backups in Windows 8, insert an external USB drive, open the Windows 8 Tools Menu, select 'Control Panel,' choose 'Save backup copies of your files with File History,' ensure the external device is visible, and click 'Turn on' to enable File History. You can then configure advanced settings for backup frequency and retention.
How can I configure File History to backup specific folders in Windows 8?
In Windows 8, you can configure File History to backup specific folders by accessing the advanced settings of File History. From there, you can choose which folders to include in the backup process and specify the frequency and duration for backups to ensure your important files are protected.
What are the benefits of using File History for automatic backups in Windows 8?
Using File History for automatic backups in Windows 8 offers benefits such as protection from accidental deletion, easy restoration of files after a computer crash, and the ability to schedule regular backups to ensure your important documents are always secure.
Can I backup my files to a network location using File History in Windows 8?
Yes, you can backup your files to a network location using File History in Windows 8. File History allows you to choose between backing up to an external USB drive or a network location, providing flexibility in storing your important files securely.
How can I change the backup schedule for File History in Windows 8?
To change the backup schedule for File History in Windows 8, access the advanced settings of File History and adjust the frequency and retention settings according to your preferences. This allows you to customize when and how often your files are automatically backed up.