Microsoft has rolled out Windows Backup for Organizations, an enterprise-focused cloud backup tool designed to make migrating from Windows 10 to Windows 11 easier—especially with Windows 10 end of life looming. After entering public preview in May 2025, the feature is now generally available for business customers, giving companies an official way to back up and restore Windows settings, user preferences, and a list of Microsoft Store-installed apps.
Key details:
- Windows Backup for Organizations is disabled by default; businesses need to opt-in after installing the September 2025 Windows Monthly Cumulative Update on Microsoft Entra joined devices.
- Backups save your Windows settings, personalization, and app lists, allowing for seamless migration to new devices or fresh Windows installations.
- While backups can be created from Windows 10 (22H2) and Windows 11 (22H2, 23H2, and 24H2), restoration is only supported on Windows 11 machines—a clear prompt to get enterprises to move off Windows 10 as its end of support date arrives.
- Encrypted backups are stored securely in Exchange Online cloud, with data kept in your chosen region or country.
- The tool becomes especially relevant as companies face the choice between paying for Extended Security Updates (ESUs) or updating to Windows 11.
- When restoring, settings and preferences come back, and the rest of the Out of Box Experience stays the same as a new Windows 11 deployment.
This move is part of a broader Microsoft strategy to keep businesses connected and minimize friction during OS upgrades. The new backup tool complements other recent initiatives like Windows 365 Reserve, which temporarily gives employees Cloud PC access to support transitions and remote work.
