Windows Backup for Organizations: Simplify Device Migration and Data Protection

Last Updated: September 5, 2025
Author: CloudAid365 Team
Category: Microsoft 365 | Tags: Windows 11, Intune, Microsoft Entra, Backup, IT Admin, Device Migration
Focus Keywords: Windows Backup for Organizations, Windows 11 migration, Intune backup policy, Microsoft Entra, Windows device restore Published on: CloudAid365

Introduction

Microsoft has officially announced the general availability of Windows Backup for Organizations, a powerful feature designed to simplify device migration, enhance data protection, and improve user productivity. With Windows 10 support ending on October 14, 2025, this solution is a game-changer for IT admins preparing for large-scale upgrades to Windows 11.

What is Windows Backup for Organizations?

Windows Backup for Organizations is a cloud-based backup and restore solution that allows IT admins to back up Windows settings and Microsoft Store apps for users and restore them seamlessly on new or reimaged devices. This feature ensures a smooth transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 while minimizing downtime and troubleshooting.

Key Benefits

• Reduced Troubleshooting: Confidently reset or reimage devices knowing user settings and apps can be restored quickly.
• Seamless User Experience: Smooth migration from Windows 10 to Windows 11 with familiar settings and apps.
• Enhanced Productivity: Minimize downtime and get users back to work faster with their personalized environment.

What Can You Back Up and Restore?

• User Settings: Desktop personalization, system preferences, and more.
• Microsoft Store Apps: Backup and restore the list of installed apps to the Start menu.

Prerequisites

To enable Windows Backup for Organizations:

• Devices must be Microsoft Entra joined or hybrid joined.
• Supported OS versions:
  • Windows 10, version 22H2 or later
  • Windows 11, version 22H2 or later
• Devices must have the August 2025 Windows security update or newer.
• Backup policy must be enabled via Intune (MDM) or Group Policy.
• Admin permissions: Microsoft Intune Service Administrator or Global Administrator.

How It Works

1. Enable Backup Policy: Configure in Microsoft Intune Admin Center under
   Devices > Enrollment > Windows > Enrollment options.
2. Automatic Backups: Once enabled, backups run every 8 days automatically.
3. Manual Backup: Users can trigger backups via the Windows Backup app.
4. Restore During OOBE: When setting up a new or reimaged device, users can restore their previous backup during the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE) by signing in with the same Microsoft Entra ID.

Why It Matters Now

With Windows 10 end of support approaching, organizations need a reliable way to migrate to Windows 11 without disrupting user productivity. Windows Backup for Organizations reduces migration overhead and strengthens device resilience against incidents like hardware failure or ransomware attacks.

Next Steps

• Enable Windows Backup for your organization today.
• Prepare for Windows 10 end of support on October 14, 2025.
• Learn more about Extended Security Updates (ESU) if you need extra time for migration.

Official Microsoft Article

For detailed documentation and configuration steps, visit:
Windows Backup for Organizations is now available – Microsoft Tech Community