Backup on Android: The Basics and Why It's Essential
An Android device's performance tends to decline with use. App installations, accumulated files and residual data, and software errors can all lead you to decide to restore your phone or upgrade at some point. Performing a full backup allows you to maintain a complete backup of your data. to restore them when needed or easily transfer them to another phone.
What can be included in a backup?
- Photos and videos (both from the camera and from apps like WhatsApp or Telegram)
- Documents and files (PDF, Word, images, audios, APKs…)
- Contacts (stored on the SIM, device, or Google account)
- Call and SMS history
- WhatsApp and other messaging app conversations
- Installed applications and their data (as far as possible)
- Settings, WiFi passwords and system customizations
Why should you back up your Android? In addition to protecting your information from theft, damage, or accidental loss, regular backups allow you to:
- Easy way to migrate all your data to a new device in a few minutes.
- Free up space and improve performance restoring the factory system.
- Have a safety net for your most valuable memories and documents.
- Restore personal settings and preferences without wasting time making manual adjustments.
- Prevent the loss of critical information due to accidents or malware attacks.
Backup types: cloud, local, and combined
There are several types of backups depending on the backup method and location. The most common are:
- Cloud BackupUse services like Google Drive, Google One, Dropbox, OneDrive, or MEGA to save data on remote servers. This is the most convenient and secure option, allowing you to restore information from anywhere, at any time.
- Local backupBackups are stored on the device itself (internal storage), on a microSD card, or on your computer using a USB cable. This provides greater control and privacy, but requires discipline and sufficient storage space.
- Combined backupMany users prefer a hybrid solution, saving both in the cloud and locally. This way, if one method fails, the information will be doubly protected.
Important recommendation: You should always make your backups with sufficient battery (preferably more than 70%) and a stable internet connection if you're using the cloud. If the process is interrupted due to low battery or poor connection, it may result in incomplete backups.
How to make a full backup on Android (without root)
On most Android devices, It is not necessary to be a root user to make an effective backup. Android integrates automatic and manual tools, especially through Google Drive and Google One, which are responsible for backing up essential data.
Steps to perform automatic backup with Google Drive/Google One
- Open the app Settings from your Android device.
- Accede to Google > Backup or to System > Backup (name may vary depending on manufacturer and Android version).
- Activate the option Back up to Google Drive o Backup with Google One.
- Press on Create backup now to start manual backup (the process runs automatically in the background when the option is active).
- Wait for the data upload to complete. You can check the progress and the last backup date on that same screen.
What information is supported? Google Drive/One automatically backs up:
- Settings, wallpapers, call history, contacts, accounts, SMS, and some app settings.
- The photos and videos are backed up separately via Google Photos (see next section).
- The applications installed from Google Play are detected and can be automatically reinstalled when you restore the device.
- Not included: MMS, some messages from certain apps, or app data that doesn't allow external backup.
You can view and manage your backup content from the Google One app itself. or entering Google One WebYou can also switch backup accounts, delete previous backups, or initiate manual backups whenever you want.
How to save and restore photos and videos: Google Photos and alternatives
Images and videos are usually the largest and most important files. that we usually want to preserve. For this reason, most Android backup methods manage them separately. Google Photos It is the most recommended option, although there are alternative services.
How to use Google Photos to automatically back up images and videos
- Open the application Google Photos (if you don't have it, download it from Google Play).
- Sign in your profile (top right) and access Photo Settings > Backup and sync.
- Activate the option Backup and sync. Choose the Google account you want to use.
- You can choose which folders on the device will be synchronized (camera photos, WhatsApp, Telegram, screenshots…).
- Choose upload quality: original quality (consumes Google Drive storage) or storage savings (compressed images, but with good quality).
All your files will be available in the cloud, accessible from any Android or iOS device, or web browser. You just need to link your linked Google account.
Do you want alternatives? You can use services like Dropbox, OneDrive, MEGA or BoxAll allow automatic uploads from the gallery and offer different capacities, free or paid plans.
How to make a manual backup on your PC (local)
If you prefer not to use the cloud or you want to have additional backup, you can always make a physical copy of all the files on your Android phone to your computerThe procedure only requires the USB cable and offers complete control over which files are saved.
- Connect your smartphone to your computer using a USB cable.
- When prompted by the phone, select the option Transfer files o File transfer (MTP).
- From your computer, access the device's internal storage by going to "My PC»Or«This team«.
- Browse key folders:
- DCIM > Camera: photos and videos from the camera itself.
- WhatsApp > WhatsApp Images / WhatsApp Video: files exchanged on WhatsApp.
- Pictures > Screenshot: screenshot files.
- Telegram: files received or sent via Telegram.
- App-specific folders (may vary depending on what is installed).
Advantages: Complete security, granular control, and offline access. Disadvantages: You won't have automatic restore, so remember to run the local backup process periodically to avoid losing new files.
How to save and restore your contacts on Android
Contacts are one of the most valuable elements when changing your phone or restoring the system.Android allows you to automatically save and restore contacts to your Google account or via a local file (.vcf).
Methods to backup contacts:
- Automatic synchronization with Google ContactsIf you have account sync enabled, your contacts will always be safe in the cloud and will be automatically restored when you log in to another phone.
- Manual export to .vcf file:
- Open the Contacts app on your device.
- Go to Menu > Settings > Export.
- Generate the .vcf file and save it wherever you prefer (internal memory, microSD, or share it with your Google Drive).
- To restore: go to the Contacts app, Menu > Settings > Import > select the .vcf file and the account you want to merge them into.
You can manage all your contacts from the web Google Contacts and perform manual backups, restores, or synchronizations whenever it suits you.
