Why is WhatsApp Taking So Long to Backup (15 Fixes)

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The problem of why WhatsApp is taking so long to back up is a common issue many users face.

It can be an incredibly frustrating experience, especially when urgent messages need to be sent. Moreover, the longer a backup takes, the more agitated users become as they cannot access their messages.

Fortunately, several solutions are available to speed up WhatsApp backups so users can quickly reaccess their notes.

Why is WhatsApp taking so long to back up?

Short answer: The backup size can affect how long it takes for WhatsApp to back up. Additionally, the speed of your internet connection can affect the time it takes for a backup to complete. For example, the blockage may take longer if you have a slow internet connection.

WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps used by millions of people across the world. It is a great way to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues, but it can also be frustrating when it takes forever to back up your messages.

In this article, we’ll explore why WhatsApp takes so long to back up your data and how you can fix it.

Reason 1: Large File Size

When backing up data on WhatsApp, the size of the file is an essential factor that can affect the speed of the process. If the file size is large, it can take a long time to back up. This is because the data needs to be sent to the WhatsApp servers, and if the file size is large, it will take longer to ship.

Reason 2: Poor Internet Connection

A poor or slow Internet connection will also slow down the process of backing up WhatsApp data. If the Internet connection is slow, it can take longer for the data to be sent and received.

This is because the data needs to be transferred from the device to the WhatsApp servers, requiring a good and stable Internet connection.

Reason 3: Server Congestion

Another reason why WhatsApp backups take longer than usual is server congestion. If the WhatsApp servers are congested, it can slow down the backup process.

This is because the data needs to be sent to the WhatsApp servers, but if the servers are overloaded, it can take longer to send and receive the data.

Reason 4: Security Protocols

WhatsApp has security protocols to ensure the data is safe and secure. The data is encrypted before sending it to the WhatsApp servers as part of the security protocols.

Unfortunately, this means that the data needs to be decrypted, which can take a more extended amount of time.

Reason 5: Data Integrity

WhatsApp also needs to ensure that the data backed up is intact and error-free.

This can take a long time as WhatsApp needs to verify the integrity of the data before it can be backed up.

This means the data needs to be scanned and checked, which can take a long time.

Reason 6: Outdated Software

One of the main reasons why WhatsApp is taking so long to back up is due to outdated software.

If the version of WhatsApp you have installed on your device is obsolete, it can cause the backup process to take much longer than usual.

Therefore, it is essential to ensure that you are running the latest version of WhatsApp so that all of the newest features are available and the backup process is not hindered by outdated software.

Reason 7: Multiple Devices

Another reason why WhatsApp is taking so long to back up is due to multiple devices.

It can take a long time to complete the process if you are trying to back up data from various devices. This is because WhatsApp needs to pull data from each device and compile it into a single backup file.

This process can take a while if you have multiple devices, so it is essential to be patient and allow the process to complete correctly.

Reason 8: Incorrect Settings

Incorrect settings can also slow down the backup process. If the backup sets are not configured correctly, it can cause the backup process to take much longer than usual.

Therefore, it is essential to ensure the settings are correctly configured so that the backup process runs smoothly and quickly.

Reason 9: Network Congestion

Network congestion can be one of the main reasons why a WhatsApp backup can take longer than expected. When the network is busy, it is difficult for the WhatsApp servers to transfer large amounts of data, which can slow down the entire backup process.

Network congestion can be caused by various factors, such as too many users on the same network, inadequate bandwidth, or a server problem.

Reason 10: File Corruption

Another possible reason why a WhatsApp backup can take a long time is because of file corruption.

When a file is corrupted, it cannot be backed up properly, slowing down the entire process. Various issues, such as viruses, malware, or hardware, can cause this.

Reason 11: Permissions Restrictions

Finally, permissions restrictions can also be a factor in why a WhatsApp backup can take longer than expected.

If permissions are not set correctly, it can take longer for the server to access the data and back it up.

For example, if the user has blocked certain apps or contacts from being backed up, it can take longer for the backup to complete.

How to fix WhatsApp taking so long to backup

Fix 1: Check Your Internet Connection and Make Sure It’s Stable

The first step you should take when WhatsApp takes too long to back up your chats is to check your internet connection.

Next, ensure your connection is stable, and you receive a strong signal. If your connection is weak or spotty, it will take longer for the backup to complete.

Fix 2: Disable Auto-Downloads and Image Previews

Another thing you can do is disable any auto-downloads and image previews in the WhatsApp settings.

This will help reduce the amount of data being transferred and could help speed up the backup process.

To do this, go to Settings > Data and Storage Usage > Media Auto-Download and turn off the auto-download feature.

Fix 3: Wait for a Less Busy Time of Day to Back Up

It would be best if you considered waiting for a less busy time to back up your WhatsApp data. If many people use the internet or the WhatsApp servers are overloaded, it can take longer for the backup to complete. Try backing up at different times of the day to see if that helps.

Fix 4: Use an App like Google Drive to Back Up Your Data

One of the best ways to speed up the backup process is to use an app like Google Drive to store your files and messages.

Google Drive has a fast and reliable way of backing up your data, and its cloud-based storage also makes it easy to access your files from any device.

To use Google Drive for your WhatsApp backups, open the app, select “Backup” from the menu, and then select “Google Drive” as the destination.

Fix 5: Close Any Other Apps that May be Running in the Background

Another way to speed up the backup process is to ensure that no other apps run in the background while trying to back up your data.

This can slow down the process, so closing any apps you’re not using is best.

To do this, open the Settings app, select “Apps,” and then “Running.” From here, you can see all the apps running in the background and close them individually.

Fix 6: Uninstall and Reinstall the App

If the above steps don’t work, you may need to uninstall and reinstall the app. This will erase all your data, but it may also help to speed up the backup process.

To do this, open the Settings app, select “Apps,” and then select “WhatsApp.” Next, tap the “Uninstall” button and reinstall the app from the Google Play Store.

Once the app has been reinstalled, you can back up your data.

Fix 7: Go to Settings and Check if the Auto-Backup Option is Activated

The next thing you’ll need to do is to check whether the auto-backup option is activated.

To do this, go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup and ensure the ‘Auto Backup’ option is enabled.

If it is, you’re all set to start the backup process.

Fix 8: Check if your Device Has Enough Storage Space to Accommodate the Backup

Check if your device has enough storage space to accommodate the backup. The backup process will take longer if there isn’t enough storage space.

To check the storage space, go to Settings > Storage and check the total storage space. If it’s complete, you must delete some files and media from your device.

Fix 9: Delete Any Unnecessary Files and Media from Your Device

If you’ve checked the storage space and found it’s complete, you must delete some files and media from your device.

To do this, go to Settings > Storage and tap ‘Delete Files.’

You can then select the files and media you want to delete, which will be removed from your device. Once this is done, you can start the backup process again.

Fix 10: Please tap on the Backup Option Multiple Times to ensure it starts working.

Tapping on the backup option multiple times is the first step in troubleshooting a slow backup process.

This forces the app to start the backup process, and you may notice it starts working after you do this.

You can try the next step if the backup process still doesn’t form after you’ve tapped the backup option multiple times.

Fix 11: Try Backing Up Your Data on a Different Network

If the backup process is too long, you can try backing up your data on a different network.

This can be done by switching to another Wi-Fi network or using cellular data.

This can help you determine if the issue is related to the web you’re using or if it’s a problem with WhatsApp.

Fix 12: Check if the Latest Version of WhatsApp Is Installed on Your Device

It’s also essential to ensure you’re using the latest version of WhatsApp. Older versions of the app may not be able to handle the backup process correctly, which can take a long time to complete.

You can check if the latest app version is installed on your device by going to the App Store or Play Store and looking for the “WhatsApp update” option.

Fix 13: Reduce the Number of Chats and Media You are Backing Up

If you are backing up a lot of chats and media, it can take a long time for the backup to finish.

You can delete some discussions and media, so you no longer need to speed up the process. This will reduce the amount of data that needs to be backed up, allowing it to finish faster.

Fix 14: Refrain from Using the App While the Backup is in Progress

Using WhatsApp while the backup is in progress can cause delays. To avoid this, refrain from using the app while the backup runs. This will allow the backup process to continue uninterrupted.

Fix 15: Contact WhatsApp Customer Care

You can contact WhatsApp customer care for help if the backup is too long. They can provide additional tips on speeding up the process or diagnose any issues causing the backup to run slowly.

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Final words

WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that allows users to back up their messages, photos, and videos. Unfortunately, the backup process can take a long time, depending on how much data needs to be backed up. The longer it takes to back up, the more frustrating it can be for the user.

The cause of the delay could be due to several factors, including a slow internet connection, large files, or a busy server. Users must be patient and wait for the backup process to complete, as it is an essential step in ensuring their data is secure and accessible.

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Saksham Jamwal

A content writer with a B.Tech degree from Kalinga University, Saksham Jamwal, has a passion for writing. His favorite genre to write about is the ‘daily use devices’ and ‘social media’. He has worked on multiple projects ranging from blog posts to product reviews and loves to connect with people through his writing. Saksham is a creative and motivated individual who strives to produce informative and relatable content.