Windows 7 Backup - How Microsoft Should Improve the Action Center

Windows Security Center has nagged you about anti-virus, firewalls and automatic updates since Windows XP SP2. I've always been puzzled that backup wasn't included on the list - you can have a happy green shield while remaining vulnerable to data loss.

Windows 7 takes a baby step forward with the new Action Center. This includes both security and maintenance tasks and I was happy to see a prompt to configure backup:



Disappointingly though the backup item isn't flagged as important and the only option is Microsoft's backup tool. This is much improved over the default Vista backup but it's still a simple local backup tool.

Backup is a critical security component and Microsoft should take the following steps to ensure that users find and use the right backup product for their needs:

1. Backup should be a first class citizen in the Action Center. If backup isn't configured or a backup hasn't occurred recently this should be treated as an important security warning.


2. As with other security components Action Center should include a Find a program online button to guide the user to a selection of backup products from reputable vendors.


3. Microsoft should extend the Security Center/Action Center API to allow third party backup products to report their status to Windows.

posted by Rob on Tuesday, June 09, 2009

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