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Microsoft’s plans aren’t just policy statements. Davuluri’s memo names specifics such as improved performance in Start and File Explorer, fluid and responsive app interactions, and even an overhaul for the Windows Subsystem for Linux experience that developers use. The problem is that you’ll have to take Microsoft’s word for it. These are the “it feels faster” improvements that will become apparent (or not) only after you use Windows as Microsoft begins issuing changes. “We are focusing on making Windows 11 more responsive and consistent, so performance feels smooth and reliable,” Davuluri wro

The best Windows backup software is Easeus Todo Backup 2025. It has everything PCWorld expects to see in a top product: A polished interface, intuitive functionality, a comprehensive approach to backing up data including imaging, file backup, sync, and disaster recovery. And most important, it's reliable! Todo Backup also offers the option of a perpetual license or a subscription model, the latter of which can be augmented with affordable cloud storage.

It turns out that PCWorld's favorite for-pay backup software, Easeus Todo Backup 2025, also offers a surprisingly robust free version. It matches its paid counterpart in basics such as imaging, file backup, sync, and, most especially -- disaster recovery. It also features the same eminently user-friendly interface. As with most backup freeware, you will be nagged to upgrade, and Easeus's optional cloud storage, which is surprisingly affordable, is only available at the subscription tier.

Yes, by default, Backup and Restore (Windows 7) saves everything on your system disk (all the partitions, including hidden ones) in what's known as an image file that would be suitable for disaster recovery if Windows Recovery Drive and Rescue disk were reliable. News bulletin -- they aren't.Hence, we only recommend this program for creating highly compatible VHD/VHDX images of your data drives and partitions which can be mounted as virtual drives and browsed using nothing but Windows Explorer.