Windows Backup Did Not Complete Successfully

Scenarios

You're experiencing issues with Windows Backup, specifically the error "Windows Backup did not complete successfully" and the message claiming the backup disk has insufficient free space, despite it actually having enough space.

Explanation

Windows Backup has failed to complete successfully, resulting in two common error messages: "Windows Backup did not complete successfully" and "the last backup did not complete successfully". Both messages indicate that Windows has failed to complete the backup task.

Here are the most common reasons that may prevent the backup process from succeeding:

The backup operation timed out before it was completed.
Files containing the virus were corrupted, causing Windows to skip or not find them.
The target file to be backed up is corrupted or inaccessible, which prevents the backup process from completing successfully. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty storage device, a virus or malware infection, or a corrupted file system.
I/O device error, etc.

Troubleshooting

To resolve Windows backup issues, it's essential to clean out damaged files, such as unfinished backup files, virus-infected files, corrupted files, and those causing i/o device errors, which can interfere with the backup process. Alternatively, consider backing up with another tool to ensure a successful backup.

This page provides four ways to solve your problem and restart the backup process.

Fix 1. Delete Old Backup in the Backup Location

If your computer is set to make a schedule backup and the previous backup was left unfinished, delete the previous backup, remove all existing backup files or folders, and redo the backup.

Fix 2. Full Scan the Computer with Antivirus Software

To resolve the issue, you can try scanning your computer or backup drive with antivirus software to remove any malicious software and viruses, which may be causing the problem. After scanning, attempt to create the backup again.

Fix 3. Use Another Backup Software and Check for Errors

If none of the above methods work for you, you can try using a third-party backup tool. Qiling Backup is a recommended option, which offers features such as automatic backups, data compression, and encryption.

Backup and restore files and folders for personal use.
Automatic backup protects changed data every half an hour.
Supports users to make scheduled backup.
Supports users to clone, upgrade, or transfer the system easily.

Download Qiling Backup to solve your pressing problem, and it will also keep protecting your files and data in the long term.

Free Download

Step 1. Connect the external hard drive or USB flash drive to your PC.

Step 2. Run Qiling Backup and click "File backup" on the main window.

Step 3. Select the files you want to backup and choose the external hard drive or USB as the backup destination.

Step 4. Click "Proceed" to execute the file to external hard drive/USB backup operation.

Check for Errors:

If you're experiencing issues with the built-in Windows Backup and Restore program, try installing Qiling Backup on the same drive where you made a backup with the program. If Qiling Backup executes the backup without any problems, the issue likely lies with the original program you were using. In this case, it might be time to consider switching to a more reliable backup solution.

Fix 4. Run CHKDSK to Check Disk Errors

Step 1. Press Windows Key + X simultaneously, type cmd, and click "OK" to open Command Prompt.

Step 2. To run the disk check on the D drive, type the command `chkdsk D: /f /r /x` and press enter. This command will initiate a thorough disk check, fixing errors, recovering readable information, and exporting any bad sectors to a file, all while preventing any disk access until the process is complete.

Chkdsk will thoroughly scan the selected drive, identifying and flagging any bad sectors. It will then attempt to recover readable information from these sectors and repair any disk errors it encounters, working to restore the drive to a healthy and functional state.

If you're not tech-savvy or want to minimize data risks, using third-party software might be a better option. The command line is best suited for computer professionals, as incorrect commands can cause severe problems, so we recommend trying an automatic command line alternative instead.