External backup drive is missing, full or write-protected

Steps

1. Open Office & devices and read the backup error and last successful time. Do not assume today’s backup exists.
2. Check the drive in File Explorer. Reconnect it, unlock it through your normal Windows process if encrypted, and check its free space.
3. If its drive letter or folder changed, use Change folder / back up now to select the intended location and create a new backup.
4. If files cannot be written there outside the app, ask your administrator to check permissions or drive health. Do not format it to solve the problem or delete the only valid backups.
5. Until repaired, save an additional backup to another trusted writable destination.

Check that it worked

Last successful backup updates and the file is present on the intended drive.

Still stuck?

If these steps do not match your screen, check Company & settings for your version and whether you are using Demo, a field laptop or the office workspace. Search the displayed error or save a support report.

Related

• Choose external storage for backups and large files
• Not enough storage: safely free space on the computer