Windows first sign-in restore experience now available

Windows first sign-in restore experience is now generally available as part of Windows Backup for Organizations. Users signing in for the first time on an eligible device will see a restore experience at first sign-in, even if it was missed the first time the device was turned on (Windows out of box experience). This allows users to restore Windows settings, restore their Microsoft Store app list, or choose to configure the device as new.

This update extends restore capabilities beyond Microsoft Entra-joined devices to support hybrid-managed environments, improving readiness for new or reimaged Windows 11 devices. For more information, see Windows first sign-in restore experience now available

When this will happen

General availability begins with devices that have installed Windows updates released February 24, 2026, and later.

How this affects your organization

This feature is available to IT admins managing Windows 11 devices using Windows Backup for Organizations, as well as eligible devices where sign-in occurs with a Microsoft Entra ID, including Microsoft Entra hybrid-joined devices and Windows 365 Cloud PCs.

The experience is controlled by admins and governed by existing Windows Backup for Organizations policies. Note that it is not enabled unless allowed by admin policy, and no changes are made to existing user data beyond what is already supported by Windows Backup for Organizations. No action is required if you do not want to offer restore at first sign-in, as existing policies remain in effect.

What you can do to prepare

If you already use Windows Backup for Organizations, you can enable the first sign-in restore experience using your existing management tools, such as the Microsoft Intune settings. Group Policy options also exist. Make sure to validate device eligibility and deployment scenarios against system requirements.