How can I backup windows 11 to external drive?

It's great that you're taking steps to back up your important files. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to backup Windows 11 to external drive, suitable for beginners:

1. Connect Your External SSD

• Plug your 1TB external SSD into your ThinkPad using a USB port.
• Make sure your drive is recognized by Windows (it should appear in File Explorer).

2. Use Windows Built-in Backup Tool to backup Windows 11 to external drive: File History or Create a System Image

Option A: Use File History 

1. Open Settings: Press Windows + I.
2. Navigate to: System > Storage > Advanced storage settings > Backup options.
3. Set up File History:
   Under "Back up using File History," click Add a drive.
   Select your external SSD from the list.
   Windows will start backing up your files automatically.
   This method backs up your personal files, not the entire system.

Option B: Create a System Image

1. Open Control Panel: Type "Control Panel" in the Start menu and open it.
2. Go to: System and Security > Backup and Restore (Windows 7).
3. Create a system image:
   Click Create a system image on the left sidebar.
   Choose On a hard disk and select your external SSD.
   Follow the prompts to start the backup.

This creates a complete copy of your Windows system, useful in case of a full system failure.