How to back up Windows 10 to a QNAP NAS

QNAP TS-431X3
QNAP TS-431X3 (Image credit: Rich Edmonds / Windows Central)

Network-attached storage (NAS) enclosures make it possible to conveniently back up Windows 10 PCs with very little effort, allowing you to safeguard your data. You don't require the best NAS for home to set up backups for your PC, and this guide will work with most NAS enclosures from QNAP.

How to back up Windows 10 to a QNAP NAS

It's important to back up your Windows 10 PCs just in case something goes wrong, and using a NAS is a great way to store these images in an easily accessible, yet secured location. Ensure your QNAP NAS is up and running before using this guide.

  1. Download and install QNAP's NetBak Replicator.
  2. Open NetBak Replicator and select your region.

QNAP NetBak Replicator

Source: QNAP (Image credit: Source: QNAP)
  1. Click Apply.
  2. Click Start.
  3. Select your QNAP NAS from the list.
  4. Click Next.
  5. Select the shared folder to store backups (or create a new one).
  6. Click Next.
  7. Enter your QNAP NAS credentials. (Checking "Remember username and password" will allow the app to automatically log you in.)
  8. Click Finish.

NetBak Replicator will present a few options once connected to a QNAP NAS. You can instantly back up your Windows 10 machine, restore using a previously saved backup, or configure various options like automated backups and what should be sent to the QNAP NAS.

If you'd rather not use an application to handle backups, you can configure Windows 10 to automatically save copies of your files on the QNAP NAS by using the built-in backup tool. You'll need the network location, as well as user credentials to set everything up.

Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.