[All-in-One] Create Windows 11 Backup to NAS (Network Drive)

Storing computer data on a NAS (Network Attached Storage) has become one of the most popular ways to ensure the safety of essential files. This article will define NAS, discuss its advantages, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to back up Windows 11 files and operating system to a NAS.

[Definition You Need to Know] What is NAS?

NAS, short for Network Attached Storage, is a data storage device that can be connected to a network. It enables users to store and share data over a network, making it an ideal choice for backing up data. NAS devices have been around for a while, but they have only recently gained popularity as a backup solution. This is because NAS devices offer some advantages over other storage solutions.

NAS devices are typically much cheaper than other storage solutions, such as SAN or DAS. They are also easier to set up and use, making them ideal for small businesses or home users. Additionally, NAS devices offer features that make them well-suited for data backup. For example, most NAS devices come with built-in RAID support, which protects data from loss in case of a hard drive failure.

More definitions to read:

Backup Location | NAS vs. Local Hard Disk: Which Is Better?

If you want to back up Windows 11, you have two options: back up your data to a local drive or to a NAS (Network Attached Storage) device. Both methods have their pros and cons. Here's a quick overview of each:

#1. Backup to a local drive

#2. Backup to NAS

How to Back Up Windows 11 to a NAS Network Drive - Files and Operating System

Now that you're familiar with the pros and cons of backing up Windows 11 to a network drive, it's time to apply this to where you store your backup files. An increasing number of Windows users have now upgraded to Windows 11. This new system brings many features and refreshing user experience. However, it's a bit disappointing when it comes to data backup.

In general, Windows 11 merely enhances the OneDrive sync functionality that most people don't use anyway. But you can still leverage other built-in backup tools for basic data protection. There are two ways to back up Windows 11 to a NAS:

• Back up files only
• Back up the entire system

In addition to the built-in Windows tools, you might also want to use a third-party helper. Let's take a look at each method.

Read More: How to Backup Network Shared Folders with Network Backup Software

Method 1️⃣: Back Up Windows 11 Files Only to NAS

This method is best if you only want to back up specific files or folders. If you want to back up your entire system, skip to Method 2.

You can copy and paste files and folders to the NAS drive, or use File History in Windows 11 to save different versions. Here, we'll only show you how to back up data to NAS with File History in Windows 11. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Search for “System and Security” in Control Panel, and then click “File History.”

Step 2: Connect the NAS device to your computer and make sure that the NAS is turned on.

Step 3. On the left, you'll see an option that says “Select drive.” Click it and choose “Add network location” to set up your NAS drive as the backup location.

Step 4: File History will now begin its first backup to your NAS drive.

Select Add Network Location and click Next.

NOTE: The steps below detail how to back up Windows 11 to a network drive using File History. Alternatively, you can accomplish this task with the built-in Windows Backup and Restore utility. You may refer to its ultimate guide on how to effectively backup both your Windows 11 files and system to a NAS.

The extensive guide above is about using File History to back up your Windows 11 files to a NAS. Method 2 will show you how to back up your system to a NAS.

You may also find this useful: How to Automatically Backup a Folder to a Network Drive

Method 2️⃣: Back Up Windows 11 to a NAS

Backing up Windows 11 is more than just copying all system files. It involves creating an image file that contains files, configurations, and even disk structures at the backup location. In Windows 11, users can create a disk image using the built-in Backup and Restore feature. They can also use a free third-party backup tool like Todo Backup to simplify the process.

Todo Backup is a professional backup and recovery tool that can back up your system, hard drive, files, and applications in just a few simple steps. Let's see how to use Todo Backup to back up Windows 11 to a network drive. Before you start, please download and install Todo Backup for free. Then follow these steps:

Step 1: Launch Todo Backup and on the main interface, choose “Create Backup” and then click “Select Items to Backup”.

Step 2: Click "OS" to start the backup from the four options.

Step 3: The system partition will be selected automatically, you just have to choose the location.

Create System Backup Step 3

Step 4. You can choose to save the backup file to your local drive, cloud storage, or NAS. You can also connect an external hard drive to save the system backup.

Step 5: You can customize the settings as you wish in the “Options” in the bottom left corner. Then, click "Back Up Now" and the backup process will start.

* After the backup is complete, you can right-click on the backup task on the left to check its status, recover, open, or delete the backup.

Frequently Asked Questions About Backing Up Windows 11 to a Network Drive

**How to back up to a network drive in Windows 11?** In Windows 11, you can back up to a network drive using the built-in "File History" feature or by manually creating a backup. Here's a brief overview of both methods: ### Using "File History" 1. Click the "Start" button and then select "Settings" (the gear icon). 2. In the Settings window, choose "Update & Security." 3. On the left menu, click "Backup." 4. Click "Add a drive" and then select your network location (you may need to enter credentials to connect to the network drive). 5. Turn on "File History" and configure the backup settings as needed. 6. Ensure your network connection is stable, and the backup will occur automatically. ### Manually Creating a Backup 1. Connect to your network drive and ensure you have access permissions. 2. Select the files and folders you want to back up, using `Ctrl` to make multiple selections. 3. Right-click the selected items and choose "Copy." 4. Navigate to an appropriate location on the network drive, right-click, and select "Paste." 5. You can also use the `robocopy` command in Command Prompt or PowerShell to automate this process. Please note that manual backups might not offer the same version control and recovery options as "File History." It's recommended to perform this regularly to keep your data up to date.

In Windows 11, there are two ways to back up data to a NAS: by backing up files only or by backing up the entire system. Both Windows built-in tools and third-party backup software can assist you in backing up your Windows 11 files to a network drive. Connect the network drive to your computer and select it as the backup location when setting up the backup.

• Built-in Windows tools: File History and Backup and Restore
• Third-party backup software: Todo Backup, Acronis Cyber Protect, Paragon Backup and Recovery, and others

Does Windows 11 have a backup feature? Yes, Windows 11 includes a built-in backup program accessible through the "Settings" app under the "Backup" option. You can use this feature to create system images or back up your personal files to external storage devices, network locations, or OneDrive. To access it, press the `Win + I` keys on your keyboard to open "Settings," then click on "Update & Security" > "Backup." Here, you can configure and run backups. Additionally, Windows 11 still supports using the older "Control Panel" for "Backup and Restore" functionality.

Windows 11 has two backup programs built-in: File History and Backup and Restore. File History only backs up specific files, while Backup and Restore can create a system image file that contains all the data on your computer. You can choose to use either one of these as you see fit.

Final Thoughts

Following the guidelines above, you should know how to back up Windows 11 files and system to NAS. If you have any questions or suggestions when using the Todo Backup tool, feel free to contact us. We are always here to help.