Microsoft says it won't let you remove the Windows Backup app for Windows 10 and 11

Microsoft has recently launched a Windows Backup app for both Windows 10 and Windows 11, which is also installed on enterprise editions of these operating systems. The company refers to this app as a “system component”, which means it cannot be uninstalled.

However, despite its automatic installation, users with Azure Active Directory (AAD) and Active Directory (AD) accounts are unable to utilize the app for backing up their data as it requires a Microsoft account. This limitation has been imposed even though the app is automatically installed on their systems.

According to Microsoft's support website, “Because Windows Backup is a system component, it cannot be removed. However, we will be releasing a future Windows Update that prevents Windows Backup from appearing on certain user interface (UI) screens for Azure Active Directory (AAD) or Active Directory (AD) users that run the Pro, Education, or Enterprise editions of Windows 10 or Windows 11. For example, after the future Windows update is installed, Windows Backup will not appear in the 'All apps' or 'Installed apps' lists.”

Microsoft has reiterated that the Windows Backup app, being a system component, cannot be removed. However, the company is planning to make it invisible on unsupported Windows 10 and 11 PCs, particularly on enterprise systems or LTSC machines.

The app, though hidden after an upcoming Windows Update, will remain in the operating system and will no longer be visible in user interface areas like “All apps” or “Installed apps.”