Moving files and configuring settings and preferences when setting up a new Windows computer (or after a reset) can be frustrating. But with Windows Backup integrated into Windows' Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE), the process has become much easier. Here's how it works and how you can put it to use.

What Exactly Is the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE)?

When you power on a new Windows device for the first time -- or restart it after a reset -- you're guided through an initial setup process. This process, known as the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE), enables you to customize your device. You can set your region, select a keyboard layout, name your PC, create a password, and determine whether it's for personal use, work, or school.

Just as important, OOBE allows you to adjust your privacy preferences -- a step that many people overlook when setting up their device for the first time. With Windows Backup now integrated, you can also restore apps, files, and settings from your previous PC during the setup process. Remember that setup may take some time, and your device may restart multiple times.

A Quick Look at Windows Backup

Microsoft has introduced a cloud-based Windows Backup feature that simplifies restoring your data when you move to a new device or reset your current one. It allows you to back up documents, photos, and other important files, while also preserving installed apps and syncing preferences, including Wi-Fi networks, passwords, and Microsoft account settings.

Thanks to automatic backup to OneDrive, you no longer need to spend time manually transferring files or reconfiguring settings. However, this isn't a complete system backup -- only specific files and folders are included. Also, if you use the same Microsoft account on multiple devices, the files and folders from each device are backed up to the same OneDrive location.

For this reason, I recommend not using the same Microsoft account with Windows Backup across multiple devices, as it can mix up data and make restoring backups difficult.

How Windows Backup Works During OOBE Setup

Microsoft has integrated Windows Backup into the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE). This means that if you've set Windows Backup to save your files, preferences, and credentials -- and you sign in with the same Microsoft account on a new device -- Windows will automatically detect available backups. If multiple backups exist, you'll have the option to select the most recent one.

Once you select a backup and grant permission, Windows restores your personalization settings, Wi-Fi credentials, and files synced via OneDrive. This eliminates the hassle of manually restoring backups. You also gain control over what data gets backed up and what doesn't, giving you more flexibility in deciding what to move to your new device.

What Gets Transferred Automatically and What Doesn't

Before using Windows Backup with OOBE to set up a new device, it's important to understand what data is actually transferred, so you don't set unrealistic expectations. The backup only records apps installed from the Microsoft Store and queues them for reinstallation. It does not cover traditional desktop apps installed via EXE or MSI files.

You may also need to re-enter product keys for third-party software to activate them. Likewise, custom Registry edits, third-party drivers, and specialized configurations won't carry over. To maintain the same experience, keep a record of this data, back it up externally, and migrate it manually before resetting or switching devices.

Requirements and Limitations

To use Windows Backup with Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE), certain requirements must be met. First, you need to have Windows Backup configured on your old PC with the same Microsoft account you plan to use on your new device. Since the setup retrieves data from the cloud, an active internet connection is also required.

There are also limitations to consider. Unlike other backup options that allow you to choose what to save, Windows Backup only preserves specific data and settings and does not create a full system image. If you're on the free OneDrive plan and your data exceeds 5 GB, you'll need to upgrade to a premium plan.

Otherwise, you risk losing backups, missing Outlook emails, and running into issues with other Microsoft services.

Possible Alternatives to OOBE With Windows Backup

While Windows Backup with OOBE works fine for casual users with limited data, those who need a full backup of their data and settings should consider alternative solutions. In this case, the easiest option is to use an external hard drive to copy all your data from the old PC and transfer it manually to the new one.

Alternatively, you can manually upload your data to cloud services like Dropbox and then download it on the new device. For a more automated backup solution, third-party tools like Macrium Reflect or EaseUS Todo Backup let you clone drives, create differential backups, and schedule backups at regular intervals.

When paired with Windows Backup, OOBE makes setting up a new device and carrying over your data and settings much simpler. It allows you to continue using your PC almost as if it were the one you left behind. However, since not everything is backed up, you'll still need an alternative solution alongside Windows Backup with OOBE for a more complete transition.