Th best windows backup software or utility for Windows 11/10 OS?

My advice is not using the built-in Windows backup software as it was officially deprecated by Microsoft years ago and is no longer actively developed. It is notorious for failing with cryptic error codes (like "VSS" or "0x807800C5") that are nearly impossible to troubleshoot, often leaving you with a corrupted backup file just when you need it most. Even Microsoft’s own documentation has suggested users seek third-party solutions for full-disk recovery.

Furthermore, the newer windows backup utility found in modern Windows is not a true disaster recovery tool; it is essentially a settings synchronizer designed to push your files into OneDrive. It cannot create a "bare metal" image of your operating system, meaning if your hard drive physically fails or ransomware strikes, this app is incapable of restoring your computer to a working state.

Reliable protection requires a "system image"—an exact, bit-by-bit copy of your entire drive—which the built-in tools handle poorly or not at all. Third-party solutions like Veeam for stability or Hasleo for features use modern engines that verify backup integrity, ensuring that your recovery media actually boots and works during an emergency.

For total peace of mind, stick to the 3-2-1 rule using one of the free tools discussed: keep 3 copies of your data, on 2 different types of media (e.g., your PC and an external USB), with 1 copy stored offsite (or at least physically disconnected from your PC). This strategy remains the only effective defense against both hardware failure and malware.