Windows Settings Backup Now Enabled by Default in 26H2 Update

Microsoft has rolled out its annual Windows update, version 26H2, which includes a significant change that may catch administrators off guard. The update enables Windows settings backup by default, a move that could be problematic for organizations with strict data privacy policies.

The latest release of Windows 11 doesn't bring many new features, but it does have some notable changes under the hood. One of these is the reset of the end-of-support clock and enabling Windows Backup and Restore by default.

Windows Backup and Restore backs up a device's settings and a list of installed Microsoft Store apps. The idea behind this feature is to allow users to easily transition to a new device, with their settings and apps restored during setup. However, the service only backs up data in the cloud, which may not be suitable for organizations that are prohibited from sending sensitive information online.

As a result, the default-on setting won't apply in regions such as those covered by the EU Digital Markets Act or sovereign environments. For many others running Windows 11 26H2, the feature will be enabled by default on eligible devices unless an administrator has explicitly opted out of it.