Recent Windows updates create thorny situation for Windows 7 recovery discs
If your PC is running the latest version of Windows, you won’t be able to restore it with a disc until Microsoft rolls out a fix.
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What you need to know
If you prefer to restore your PC through a physical disc, such as a CD or DVD, you may run into an issue. According to aMicrosoft support document, any PC running a Windows update from after January 11, 2022 will not be able to use a recovery disc created with the Back and Restore (Windows 7) app in Control Panel (viaBleeping Computer).
“After installing the Windows updates released January 11, 2022 or later Windows versions on an affected version of Windows, recovery discs (CD or DVD) created by using the Backup and Restore (Windows 7) app in Control Panel might be unable to start,” said Microsoft.
“Recovery discs that were created by using the Backup and Restore (Windows 7) app on devices which have installed Windows updates released before January 11, 2022 are not affected by this issue and should start as expected.”
Despite the Backup and Restore app having Windows 7 in its name, it also works withWindows 11. The app is part of the restoration process outlined byMicrosoft support.
Microsoft’s support document does not explain why the latest Windows updates prevent recovery discs from working. It just notes that the company is working on a fix and that an update will come out in a future release.
No third-party backup or recovery apps are affected by the issue, according to Microsoft.
If you’d like to move away from using CDs and DVDs to backup and restore your system, you can check out our guide onhow to create a full backup of your Windows 11 PC. We also have a guide onhow to backup your PC automatically on Windows 10.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
