Microsoft has announced a significant change in its approach to data protection and device management, with far-reaching implications for enterprise users. As of the latest update to Windows 11, version 26H2, Microsoft will enable by default the backup and restore tool for organizations, previously known as “Windows Backup for Organizations,” on eligible devices.
This tool allows IT administrators to back up and restore enterprise users’ Windows settings in case a device is reset, replaced, upgraded, or reimaged. The feature was first unveiled at the 2024 Microsoft Ignite conference as an opt-in option, disabled by default. It then entered public preview in May 2025 and general availability in August 2025. However, IT administrators were required to explicitly enable it through policy settings.
The shift from an opt-in to an opt-out approach will affect enterprise users worldwide, except those operating under the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) or in sovereign or restricted cloud environments. On eligible devices running Windows 11 26H2, the backup and restore tool will be enabled by default unless explicitly disabled through Microsoft Intune or Group Policy.
Microsoft’s motivation for this change is likely twofold: to improve user experience and reduce support requests from users who lose their personalized settings when switching devices or undergoing a system reset. By enabling the backup and restore tool by default, IT administrators can ensure that enterprise users’ data is safeguarded against loss in these scenarios.
However, it’s essential to note that this change does not imply a complete hands-off approach for IT administrators. They will still have full control over the feature through mobile device management (MDM) solutions, allowing them to configure and manage backup settings as needed.
The new default behavior is currently available in the Windows Insider Program Experimental channel, with broad implementation expected later this year. Devices originally running Windows 11 version 26H1 will receive the same treatment starting with the next feature update.
This shift highlights Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience and streamline data management within enterprise environments. While some might view this move as an added layer of complexity for IT administrators, others will appreciate the increased security and convenience it brings to users.
As a practical takeaway, IT administrators should familiarize themselves with the updated backup and restore tool settings in their Microsoft Intune or Group Policy configurations to ensure they can manage and configure the feature according to their organization’s needs. This includes verifying that explicit enablement and disablement settings are honored as specified by Microsoft.
Source: Bleeping Computer — 2026-07-07