12 Ways to Fix WhatsApp Backup Stuck Issue in 2024
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Are you facing WhatsApp backup stuck issues? Then, you will learn how easy it is to fix the problem. If you have enabled it, WhatsApp automatically backs up your chats to Google Drive or iCloud daily (depending on your settings).
Creating backups keeps your data safe and allows you to quickly restore data on any smartphone. If your phone is stolen or dysfunctional, you can recover lost WhatsApp data with backups.
How to Fix a WhatsApp Chat Backup Stuck Issue
Many WhatsApp users face this problem at some point. This situation is risky. If you lose your device and have no backup available to restore the lost data, you risk losing your data. In such situations, you cannot restore your WhatsApp data, and every vital message, media, and document will be gone forever.
Different Ways to Fix the WhatsApp Backup Stuck on Your Device
Do you have WhatsApp slash pictures to freeze, or will it take a month to create backups? First, the device must have an active internet connection to perform the backup operation.
If you have an active and reliable data connection and your WhatsApp backup process stops, here are some things you could do.
Is your WhatsApp frozen, or will some time be needed to back up the app? First, you must ensure that your device is connected to the internet at the moment of the backup.
If your data connection is on and stable while your WhatsApp backup is stuck, then the following guidelines can help you;
01. Restart WhatsApp App
If you cannot backup WhatsApp data, the first approach should be to re-launch your app and restart your backup operations. However, the cherry on the cake would be to wait 30 minutes before initiating the backups again to allow your device to reconnect and purge any failed files before retrying.
02. Don't Backup Video Items
The second troubleshooting tip for those facing the problem of WhatsApp not backing up is to exclude videos from the backup. Because of their size, videos quickly take up massive storage space and will cause delays.
If your WhatsApp stuck on backup, turn off the backup for videos and then recheck it as a basic fault-finding technique. Excluding videos might help because chats and other file attachments are smaller and require little time and connection strength.
Here is how to exclude videos from your WhatsApp backup: Open WhatsApp settings, navigate to chat, and then chat backup. You can turn off the include video option.
We have another article that covers all you need to know when backing up chats and media to Google Drive How to Backup WhatsApp to Google Drive in a Few Easy Steps
03. Clear WhatsApp Cache
Another reason of why is WhatsApp backup taking so long could be the cache memory. Every app stores some data in memory to avoid searching for it the next time you want to access it.
The cache memory allows an app to work faster. Too much cache can cause the backup to slow down.
How do I clear the WhatsApp cache? Open settings on your phone and select ‘Manage apps’. A list of apps will appear. Select WhatsApp from the list. Select Storage Usage -> Cache -> Clear Cache. After you clear the WhatsApp cache, the backup stuck issue might disappear.
04. Update WhatsApp
If you are using an older version of WhatsApp, it is no wonder why WhatsApp is causing all such issues. Updating an OS or app is always recommended because these updates will improve your user experience and resolve known bugs.
If you have a problem, others will have had the same problem, and a newer version will have the solution.
To ensure your phone does not have outdated WhatsApp, check the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, considering your device. Additionally, check if your Android and iOS are also up-to-date.
05. Ensure free space in Google Drive and iCloud.
Apple devices use iCloud, and Android devices use Google Drive as their default storage location.
Ensure you have sufficient space in whichever storage location you are using. If WhatsApp backup not working for iPhone, check for space on your iCloud drive.
You can check your iCloud space by going to your iCloud settings. From there, navigate to iCloud storage and check for the space you have left. Similarly, sign in to your Google Drive account to check free space.
Have you accidentally deleted your WhatsApp chats without taking backups? If so, do not worry. Check this article on how to restore deleted WhatsApp messages without backup.
06. Delete Previous Backups from iCloud.
Previous backups could explain why my WhatsApp won’t back up data on my iPhone. Apple offers its users minimal storage capacity for free.
If you are on a free plan, the allowed space might be complete because of previous backups. To delete them, launch Settings, navigate to Your name -> iCloud -> Manage Account Storage.
You will see all your backups. From there, find WhatsApp and delete the previous backup. After you have some free space, start the backup process again.
07. Status of iCloud Service
iCloud is a service that Apple provides to its consumers. The server hosting iCloud may be down or under maintenance. Apple has made it very easy to know the Apple’s status page to see what services are currently down. A down service could be why WhatsApp is not backing up the data.
08. Force Restart iPhone
Force restarting is the must-try method for all iPhone issues. With force restarting, your iPhone will eliminate unwanted cache data, free up some space, and perform better. Force restarting will also force WhatsApp to stop and load again.
- Method to Force Restart iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Press and hold both the power button at the right and the volume up button at the left corner of the iPhone. Keep the buttons pressed until your iPhone restarts with an Apple logo.
- Method to Force Restart iPhone 8 and Above:
- Press the volume up button first.
- When you release it, press the volume down button.
- After releasing it, press and hold the power button until you see the Apple logo on the screen.
09. Reset Network Settings
If you see a WhatsApp glitch or experience a WhatsApp backup stuck preparing on your iPhone, reset your network settings. A poor or overwritten network setting can indeed result in WhatsApp being stuck loading backups.
Launch Settings to reset the network settings and navigate to General -> Transfer or Reset iPhone -> Reset -> Reset Network Settings.
After a successful reset of settings, start the backup, which might fix your issue. Ensure that your data connection or Wi-Fi has good signal strength.
10. Upgrade Your iOS
It is no surprise that an older version of iOS is repeatedly causing your WhatsApp backups to fail. With every new version of any mobile application, compatibility with older mobile OS comes into play. Newer versions work better with newer iOS versions.
Ensure that you have the latest iOS version installed. Even minor updates, including security improvements and bug fixes, are essential. To upgrade to the latest iOS, open Settings, go to General, and click ‘Software Update’.
Ensure you have network connectivity. It will search for the software online. If available, download and install the software.
11. Try Manual Backup
Instead of creating a backup via iCloud, you can manually create backups for WhatsApp only. The process is simple: Open your WhatsApp app and navigate to Settings -> Chats -> Chat Backup -> Back Up Now.
To make a manual backup work, you need to turn on your iCloud backup. Otherwise, the backup option in WhatsApp will not be available.
12. Try iTunes or the Finder App
iTunes or the Finder apps are official Apple products you can use on your computer. They allow you to take backups of your whole iPhone. For Windows-based computers, you will use iTunes.
For Macs with the latest MacOS version of Catalina or above, you will use the Finder app, the official alternative to iTunes.
For Macs with the latest MacOS version of Catalina or above, you will use the Finder app, the official alternative to iTunes.
WhatsApp Backup: What Not to Do
If you have trouble creating a WhatsApp backup on your Android or iPhone, follow the troubleshooting steps above. These quick fixes will fix your issue and secure your data with a successful backup.
- Regular Backups: It is helpful to evaluate the possibility of having a regular backup to compile a dialogue routine. WhatsApp has a feature that backs up the app daily, but one can also back up the app at any time.
- Choose a Reliable Cloud Storage Provider: When using cloud storage, use well-known services like Google Drive or iCloud. Ensure your account is safe and has enough space to store new and updated facts.
- Verify Backup Settings: You should occasionally review your WhatsApp options and verify whether backups are on and set up correctly.
- Enable End-to-End Encryption: Allow security of your WhatsApp backups through encryption from one end to the other to improve security.
- Local Backups: Other essential steps besides cloud backups include making other local backups using a USB cable and a computer.
- Data Security: Why It’s Important to Keep Your WhatsApp Chats Safe
- Use Strong Passwords: Guard WhatsApp and cloud storage accounts with a reliable password distinct from any other account.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Increase the security and protection of your account by activating two-factor authentication in WhatsApp.
- Be Cautious of Phishing Attempts: Beware of unsolicited messages or messages purporting to be from WhatsApp. Do not share your details or account details with anyone you do not know.
- Keep Your Device Secure: To avoid unauthorised access, install and frequently update an antivirus program on your device.
Seeking Assistance: When to Contact WhatsApp Support
If you have exhausted all troubleshooting steps and your WhatsApp backup is still stuck, don’t hesitate to contact WhatsApp support. Here are some situations when reaching out might be necessary:
- Persistent Backup Issues: If you continue to experience problems despite trying various solutions.
- Account-Related Problems: If you suspect an issue with your WhatsApp account.
- Unusual Behaviour: If you notice any unusual behaviour, such as frequent crashes or unexpected errors.
By following these best practices and seeking assistance when needed, you can ensure the safety and security of your WhatsApp data.
Conclusion
To effectively resolve WhatsApp backup stuck issues and ensure the safety of your valuable data, follow these comprehensive steps:
Prioritise network connectivity and manage storage space. Regularly update your apps and operating system—Troubleshoot common problems using the step-by-step solutions provided in the guide. Consider additional tips such as implementing best backup practices, prioritising data security, and seeking assistance from WhatsApp support if needed.
By taking these proactive measures, you can confidently protect your WhatsApp data and avoid the frustration of a stuck backup.
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