Microsoft has made a surprising move by installing the Windows Backup app on all Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems, declaring it a “system component” that cannot be removed. This decision, starting from August 22, 2023, affects all users, even those who may not find it useful.
Unfortunately, this move raises concerns, especially for Azure Active Directory (AAD) and Active Directory (AD) users who can’t utilize the app due to its Microsoft account requirement. Windows Backup is designed to manage certain files, folders, settings, credentials, and apps, all stored in the cloud for easy device restoration with an Internet connection.
Some view this as an attempt by Microsoft to push another one of its products onto users, with the potential for future cloud storage expansion costs. In contrast, Mac users signing in with an iCloud account can save content like files and credentials but need a separate hard drive or NAS device for full system backups, including apps.
Microsoft acknowledges that “Windows Backup is a system component and cannot be removed.” However, it plans to issue an update to prevent the app from appearing on certain user interfaces, specifically Pro, Education, and Enterprise versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11 that use AAD and AD.
For now, users with incompatible devices are still finding the Windows Backup app installed against their preferences.
