Microsoft announced this week the general availability of Windows Backup for Organizations, a new enterprise-grade backup tool that helps simplify backups and makes the transition to Windows 11 easier.
First announced at the Microsoft Ignite conference in November 2024, this opt-in feature is turned off by default and has been available in public preview since May 2025.
Windows Backup for Organizations is available after installing the September 2025 Windows Monthly Cumulative Update on Entra joined devices, but must be enabled by an IT administrator by configuring backup and restore policy settings.
Once toggled on, this tool can back up Windows settings, preferences, and Microsoft Store-installed apps on Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems, and helps restore them on Windows 11 PCs during device setup.
"This enterprise-grade feature helps IT teams streamline device transitions by securely preserving user settings and Microsoft Store app installations," the company explained in a Microsoft 365 Message Center update.
"Whether upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 or refreshing Windows 11 PCs, this feature ensures a consistent user experience and supports business continuity through robust backup and rapid recovery capabilities."
Windows Backup (Microsoft)
Data backed up using Windows Backup for Organizations is stored in the Exchange Online cloud, in the Country/Region selected during tenant creation in the admin portal.
The data storage location for your tenant can be viewed in the Tenant Admin Center under Admin > Settings > Org Settings > Organization Profile > Data Location.
Microsoft says the customer data is protected using one or more forms of encryption, but will access it only when necessary under strict management oversight (e.g., for troubleshooting purposes or legal compliance).
"Microsoft personnel may use customer data only for purposes compatible with providing you with the contracted services, such as troubleshooting and improving features like protection from malware," the company added.