Microsoft adds free backup app to Windows 10 – but consumers don’t like it
The latest Windows 10 patch (KB5030211) added a new “Windows Backup” feature that allows users to backup user settings, installed applications and files.
Consumers have taken issue with Microsoft forcing this feature on users without their consent, as many have discovered the backup app in their Start menu without any prior warning.
Many technology companies have started implementing unnecessary or unwanted features by default across many operating systems, known as “bloatware.”
A useless feature for LTSC
Many of those who experienced issues with this latest update are Windows 10 LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) users. This version of Windows is a stripped-down, lighter version of the full Windows 10 client most commonly used by businesses.
This version is also the operating system of choice for those who want to avoid bloatware and unnecessary software that are so common on recent operating systems. So why is a backup feature so bad?
Firstly, it is linked to an update package including the Emoji Picker and Snipping tool. While removing the Emoji picker may not be a serious issue among LTSC users, the Snipping Tool shortcut is very versatile and widely used for quickly sharing screenshots and information.
Second, the backup feature has the potential to violate company policies around GDPR guidelines, making it useless for companies using Windows 10 LTSC and blowing up a system designed to prevent bloatware.
Third, even if companies remove this latest feature, it may quietly resurface in the Start Menu after future updates, as Microsoft will likely make future updates dependent on the KB5030211 patch.
This forces companies to remove the feature with each new update or disable automatic updates, leaving them highly vulnerable to security breaches that are regularly patched by Windows through updates.
While Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC will receive maintenance and updates until 2027, users may consider upgrading to the next release of LTSC, which will build on Windows 11 and is expected to arrive in late 2024.