Windows 10: Windows 11 file history and dropbox

Hi all.I got a question. To my understanding, Win11 File history backs up Libraries, Desktop, Contact, and Favorites folders. Now on my system, which has file history enabled, my main dropbox folder doesn't live in any of the above mentioned locations, yet, it's being backed up by file history. I'm happy with this, as this is actually the behaviour I want.But, I wonder why it is happening? I'd like to understand, so I can ensure it doesn't suddenly stop backing up this location without me knowing.So, in short, how come file history is including the dropbox location? I haven't added it to my li

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File History and Dropbox

Hi all,



I am using Windows 11 File History for a physical backup of my files.



File History backs up everything in my C:\Users\[my name here] folder. This folder includes, among other things, my Documents, Pictures and Dropbox folders. Since the contents of my Documents and Pictures folders have been backed up to Dropbox and thus have been moved to the Dropbox folder, should I exclude the (original) Documents and Pictures folders (now only shortcuts) from the File History backup?



I don't want to back up all these files twice, and I'm not sure how File History will process the two shortcut folders.



My File History drive is already such a mess that I can't tell what is being backed up and what isn't.



TIA.

 

File History and Dropbox

Hi Greg,

Thank you for the resources.

I see that my question could have been clearer. Given that my Documents folder has been moved to Dropbox (leaving a shortcut in its original location), if I want my Documents files to be backed up via File History, should I tell File History to back up C:\Users\[my name]\Documents -or- C:\Users\[my name]\Dropbox\PC\Documents?

TIA.

 

File History and Dropbox

Hi NC. I'm Greg, 10 years awarded Windows MVP, specializing in Installation, Performance, Troubleshooting and Activation, here to help you.

If you have the storage in DropBox I'd have it as a secondary, especially if you're trusting File History as your primary.. Can you move it out of your User folder to another location like C: root?



File History is the built-in backup from WIndows 10 and 11 which can lose files so I don't recommend it. But if you want to give it a shot then be sure to have a secondary real time cloud backup, and here is how to set it up and fix it if necessary:

Here is how to set up and use File History in Windows 11:

https://www.how2shout.com/how-to/enable-file-hi...

https://www.elevenforum.com/t/set-up-file-histo...

To fix it see here:

https://www.ubackup.com/windows-11/windows-11-f...

The safest and most reliable backup method is to sort your files into their User Folders (Documents, Desktop, Pictures, Downloads, etc) and periodically drag or copy them to external, which is otherwise kept unplugged to prevent ransomware attack. See tips for copying large groups of files here: http://www.pcworld.com/article/2086566/the-many...

Then have a Cloud backup to capture real time file changes, and so your files are safe from ransomware, fire and theft and easily accessible via the internet just like email. Some suggestions to help ease into this habit: You can drag or copy 5gb for free into OneDrive app to store in the cloud where they are safe from fire and theft. You can also choose to sync the Desktop, Pictures and Documents folders (only) in OneDrive app Settings > Backup for real time backup. More here:

https://www.elevenforum.com/t/turn-on-or-off-on...

If you install Google Drive Desktop, you can choose ANY User folders (Documents, Pictures, etc.) to sync up to 15g for free to their cloud in real time. You can also drag/copy selected files into Drive folder. More here:

https://support.google.com/drive/answer/1083812...

Save a System Image backup stored externally so if Windows ever becomes irreparable you can restore C in 20 minutes and be up and running. Here's the best free imaging app and how to use it: https://www.howtogeek.com/howto/7363/macrium-re...



I hope this helps. Feel free to ask back any questions and keep me posted. I will keep working with you until it's resolved.

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