In Windows Vista system will create shadow (backup) copies of files and folders, if activated "System Protection" (default). The function will be called Previous Versions for its launch will be enough to cause the right-mouse button menu and select "Restore previous versions."

The utility will show multiple versions of the same file over time, giving the user the ability to save, delete or copy versions of the file. Service set up to track file changes from the point of view of the latest conservation, but these settings can still change before the OS. "Previous Versions" also monitors backups and requires management, even if they are made by other applications compatible with Windows Vista, with the only changes made since the last backup maintain or preserve the point. For example, the five options can be displayed in the same document, but will not show any pre latest version of the file backup conservation.

Corporate users can choose to disable the "Previous Versions" because it also creates a shadow copies of files on network drives. Service deactivated in the setup "System Protection".

Users of caring for the security of information should know that "Previous Versions" can save deleted files. In the case file in the basket and then remove it, the "Previous Versions" may show that has been removed. If necessary, need to specify the folder in which the file was stored prior to disposal and use the function "Previous Versions" directly in order to determine the most remote folder or modified files. As a result, will be possible to search all over the file system. For example, "Previous Versions" opens the history backup folder to view its contents at the moment.

Some believe this feature controversial because it gives a new boss to check than his staff are busy, and can be used for profit ill.

Previous versions of Windows, of course, allowed to work with these utilities, but this new feature greatly simplifies the search. On the other hand, it should be noted that "Previous Versions" does not keep their information directly to the files.

In each section of Windows Vista secure "System Restore" requires 300 MB of free space, and may take up to 15% of available space to store previous versions of files. If necessary, more disk space, the service removes the previous backup files, freeing up space for new ones.