Dell Backup Media and Recovery Options for Windows

Dell has provided multiple options to recover Windows. Select the option that works best for your device and operating system.

Dell SupportAssist OS recovery (Windows 11, Windows 10)

Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery starts automatically if Windows will not startup. The recovery environment allows you to diagnose hardware issues, repair issues, back up files, and restore the device to how it was shipped to you. You can start the recovery environment at any time.

Dell Technologies recommends that supported computers use Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery Automated by SupportAssist for a premium restoration experience. See our article, Repair and Restore your Computer Using SupportAssist OS Recovery for restoration instructions.

Check our list of devices that support Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery.

Download a Windows Image using the Dell OS Recovery Tool (Windows 11, Windows 10, legacy versions of Windows)

Use the Dell OS Recovery Tool to download an image and create a USB flash drive that will install the factory version of Windows that was shipped on your device. Driver and software updates will be required after installation. For more information about using the Dell OS Recovery tool, see Create an OS Recovery Image with the Dell OS Recovery Tool.

OneDrive

Microsoft recommends using OneDrive to keep critical files backed up to the cloud. OneDrive allows you to use your data from multiple devices. For more information, see Microsoft’s OneDrive page.

File Backup

To back up your personal files using Windows’ native file backup utility, see the Microsoft Support tutorial for Windows 11 and Windows 10.