Frequently asked questions
Is O&O AutoBackup free?​
No. O&O AutoBackup is commercial software. You can try it during the trial period; continued use requires a valid license.
Does O&O AutoBackup create a complete Windows image?​
No. It protects selected files and folders. It does not image Windows, installed applications, partitions, or boot information. Use O&O DiskImage for complete system recovery and O&O AutoBackup for frequent versions of changing personal data. See O&O AutoBackup, O&O DiskImage, and OneDrive.
Why should I use O&O AutoBackup and O&O DiskImage together?​
They recover different layers. O&O DiskImage can return a failed PC to a bootable system state; O&O AutoBackup can then return the newest personal files created since the last image. A practical rhythm is a system image monthly and file backup hourly, adjusted to how important and changeable the data is.
Is OneDrive already a backup?​
OneDrive synchronizes a working set, which means an unwanted deletion or damaging edit can be synchronized too. Provider recovery features can help, but they remain inside the same account and service. O&O AutoBackup creates an independent versioned copy on storage you control. See Protect OneDrive with an offline backup.
Can I open a backup without O&O AutoBackup?​
Unencrypted backups contain ordinary files that can be reached with File Explorer. For version-aware recovery, use O&O AutoBackup or the portable recovery app stored with the backup. Encrypted backups require one of those applications plus the password or recovery key.
Why does O&O AutoBackup not compress the backup?​
Plain-file recovery is a deliberate design decision. Without a proprietary compressed container, an unencrypted current file can be copied directly and damage to one archive cannot lock away every unrelated file inside it. Many common photos, videos, Office documents, and downloads are already compressed. See Backup format.
Where should I store backups?​
On a different physical device or remote system from the source. A USB drive, separate disk, NAS, WebDAV server, or S3-compatible storage can be used. Keep another offline copy for irreplaceable data.
What happens when my USB drive is disconnected?​
O&O AutoBackup waits. When the recorded drive returns, drive-connect or catch-up behavior can resume protection automatically. It verifies the device identity instead of relying only on its drive letter.
Can I stop the first backup?​
Yes. Pause or cancel the run. Completed files remain useful, and the next run scans and catches up with what remains.
Why was an open file skipped?​
Another program may hold it exclusively. Close that program and run the backup again. O&O AutoBackup reports these files so they are not mistaken for protected copies.
How many versions are kept?​
The standard policy keeps every recent version, then thins history to hourly, daily, and weekly restore points. Optional limits and available destination space affect the final history.
Does deleting a pair delete my backup files?​
No. It removes the pair and its restore information from the interface but leaves files at the destination. Delete destination data separately only after verifying it is no longer needed.
What if I forget an encryption password?​
Use the recovery key created during setup. Match its Vault ID to the backup, open Password forgotten? Use the recovery key, and unlock it. If both password and recovery key are lost, the backup cannot be decrypted—not even by O&O Support. See Restore an encrypted backup.
Why did my scheduled backup not run?​
O&O AutoBackup must start with Windows and stay active in the notification area. It may also be waiting for the drive, mains power, an unmetered connection, or idle time. The Home page shows the reason.
Can I synchronize folders instead of backing them up?​
Yes. O&O AutoBackup offers Backup, Copy, Merge, Mirror, and Two-way modes. They differ in direction, version history, and whether deletion is propagated. Synchronization keeps working folders aligned; it does not replace a versioned backup. See Every synchronization mode in detail.
How do I move my license?​
Open About, release the license on the old PC, then activate it on the new PC according to the license agreement.
Where can I get help?​
Use the O&O Support pages. Include the application version, exact error, affected pair, and a reviewed diagnostic log when appropriate. Never send your password or recovery key.