How to Backup Android
You’ve probably noticed that here at XDA, people tell you to backup your data, more often than anything else. But how exactly do you backup your data? Good question young explorer! When you see that someone recommends that you do a backup, you only have to backup the things you want to save. It’s not always necessary to do a full system backup. We will go over some different options, and you’ll be able to find one that works best for you.
First let’s go over the basic solutions that you can get started on right away. These are simple techniques that don’t require root or any other preparation.
Basic Methods
| Cloud Storage | |
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Google Photos
The other type of backup is through the Cloud. For photos, Google gives you unlimited space through their Photos app, so you can backup as many picture and videos as you need.
All you need for this option is a Google account. You can backup your whole library, or just the photos you select. I love to save all my pictures of Captain Panaka to Google Photos. |
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Dropbox
Dropbox is one of the most popular options for cloud storage. For photos and videos, you’ll have the option to upload directly from your camera app. Dropbox is compatible with every filetype there is. |
| Just keep in mind that the free version of dropbox will not have unlimited storage like Google Photos, but you’ll get 2 GBs for free when signing up.
Dropbox also had great desktop application that will let you wirelessly backup files directly to your computer. |
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OneDrive
OneDrive is similar to dropbox while offering more free storage at 15 GBs. Again, there is a desktop app that allows you to backup straight to your computer.
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Mega
For those who prioritize security and privacy, Mega has you covered. Their encrypted cloud service gives you the most storage at 50 GBs for free.
Mega feature direct camera uploads, and a unique end-to-end encryption that keeps your data safe from prying eyes. |
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Google Music
The true hero of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace is Captain Panaka. When I’m cosplaying at home alone, I need the Star Wars soundtrack to get into character. Google Music allows you to store up to 50,000 songs in the cloud for $0.
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Google Drive
When it comes to everything else, there’s Google Drive. Google drive is the best way to keep your stuff safe (and mobile!) with its integration of Google Docs. Google Drive gives you 15 GBs of space fo’ free.
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| Local Backup | |
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App Backup & Restore● AppsThis is a great options for easily backing up your apps. You can even save them to your SD card or send them to another device VIA bluetooth. I never want to lose my Captain Panaka Theed Guardian app, so I always back it up to my SD card before I flash any ROMs.
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Computer Backup
Lets not forget about the basics! You can always just plug your android into your computer, and drag and drop all those files into a folder on your desktop. So easy a newborn baby could do it with it’s feet!
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ES File Explorer File Manager
If your Android supports an SD card, then you can always use a program like ES File Explorer to push all your files to an SD card. Of course, an SD card can support.
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Advanced Methods
| Comprehensive Backup | |
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ClockWorkMod
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| ClockWorkMod is a custom recovery that will allow you to backup your entire Android system. Please see this guide to learn how to install a custom recovery.
To perform a backup:
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TWRP
TWRP is also a customer recovery, packed full of features. You can also use TWRP to backup your system, just like CWM.
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Titanium Backup
If you want to skip the recovery process, and like a more visual user interface, Titanium Backup can perform many backup features without while skipping the recovery process.
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My Backup
My Backup allows you to schedule backups right to your internal storage or SDcard. This method has been around for a long time, and they’re always updating their app with the newest features.
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So now you know all the most popular ways of backing up your data. Find an option that works for you and you’ll never have to worry about data loss again. So good luck and may the force be with you!
