WhatsApp stores a local and cloud backup of your communication history. Google Drive or iCloud are the backup locations for WhatsApp’s encrypted conversation data, depending on whether you’re using an Android or iPhone. Sometimes, you want to locate and access your local or cloud chat backup file for WhatsApp.
Do you want to know where WhatsApp keeps your chats, photos, and videos? You can back up your data on WhatsApp. iPhone users can back up their WhatsApp data to iCloud. Apple provides this cloud service that ensures your data’s safety and allows for seamless restoration when needed.
WhatsApp Backup Stored on Android
Using an Android device, you have two main options to back up your WhatsApp data: Locally or on Google Drive. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. Local backups store your data on your device, allowing you to access it offline without an internet connection.
However, local backups can take up a lot of space on your device and can be lost if your device is damaged or stolen. Cloud backups store your data on remote servers, which means you can access them from any device and restore them easily. However, cloud backups require an internet connection and may not be as secure as local backups.
Local Backup
Local backup refers to WhatsApp’s daily automated backup of your conversations and media to your phone’s SD card or internal storage at two in the morning. The “WhatsApp” folder, which is housed in the “Database” subdirectory, contains the backup files. By connecting your device to a computer or by using a file management program, you may get these backup files.
One benefit of local backup is that it doesn’t need a Google account or an internet connection. The disadvantage is that it can be quite space-consuming and requires protection against theft, destruction, and intentional deletion.
Google Drive Backup
Google Drive backup refers to WhatsApp uploading your media files and conversations to the cloud storage linked to your Google account. The frequency of your data backups may be set to daily, weekly, or monthly. Additionally, you have the option of selecting between Wi-Fi and cellular data networks.
One benefit of using Google Drive backup is that it stores your data online, making it accessible from any location and able to be restored to a different device. The disadvantage is that you need a Google account and an internet connection. Depending on your settings, certain media items, such as videos, could not be included.
You must do the following steps in order to activate Google Drive backup:
- Open WhatsApp, then select Settings.
- Click the Chats > Chat backup option.
- Click on Google Drive backup and choose how often to backup.
- Select the desired Google account by tapping on Account.
- Choose your desired network by tapping on Back Up again.
- To begin the backup process, tap Back Up.
Backup of WhatsApp stored on iPhone
There are two main methods used to backup WhatsApp data on an iPhone: Locally and iCloud.
Local Restore
Local backup refers to WhatsApp’s daily automated transfer of your conversations and media files to your iPhone’s internal storage. “WhatsApp” folder, which may be found in the “Documents” subfolder, contains the backup files. These backup files are available using iTunes or other third-party apps. One benefit of local backup is that it doesn’t need an iCloud account or an internet connection. The disadvantage is that it can be quite space-consuming and that it is not secure against theft, destruction, or accidental deletion.
iCloud Backup
WhatsApp syncs with your Apple account’s cloud storage and does an iCloud backup. You can set the frequency of your data backups to daily, weekly, or monthly. You can also choose between Wi-Fi and cellular data networks.
Storing your data online is one benefit of iCloud backup. It makes your data available from any location and lets you restore it to a different device. The disadvantage is that you need an iCloud account and an internet connection. Certain media items, such as videos, might not be included, depending on your settings.
You must do the following actions in order to activate iCloud backup:
- Open WhatsApp, then select Settings.
- Tap Chat Backup under Chats.
- Choose a backup frequency by tapping on Auto Backup.
- To begin the backup process, tap Back Up Now.
PC WhatsApp Backup
You have two major options if you want to backup your WhatsApp data on your PC: you may use third-party software or WhatsApp Web.
WhatsApp Web
With the help of WhatsApp Web, you can use WhatsApp on a computer by simply using your phone to scan a QR code. In addition to voice and video conversations, you may send and receive messages, documents, movies, images, and other types of material. Nevertheless, WhatsApp Web only duplicates the data on your phone; it doesn’t keep any of it on your computer. As a result, WhatsApp Web cannot be used to backup or restore your data.
Software from Third Parties
You can move, backup, and recover your WhatsApp data between your phone and computer using third-party apps. You have the option to see and select which conversations and media to store for later viewing on your computer. Additionally, you may transfer your data back and forth between devices and platforms, for example, from an Android to an iPhone.
Third-party software offers you greater freedom and control over your data, which is an advantage. The disadvantage is that it could not be dependable or safe, and it might not work with the most recent version of WhatsApp or its features.
Managing Your WhatsApp Backup
Backup Settings and Restoring Chats
WhatsApp gives you control over your backup settings. You can choose the frequency of backups and whether they should include videos. Regular backups ensure that you always have an updated copy of your chats.
Whether you’re getting a new device or you’ve accidentally deleted chats, restoring your WhatsApp conversations is straightforward. You can easily restore from a local backup or a cloud backup, depending on your device and preference.
Importance of Backing Up
Backing up your WhatsApp data is more than just a convenience; it’s a lifeline. Losing important conversations, cherished memories, or vital information due to a device malfunction or accidental deletion can be heartbreaking. Regular backups safeguard against these scenarios.
While backups are essential, it’s equally important to ensure their security. Set strong passwords for your cloud storage accounts and enable two-factor authentication where possible. This adds an extra layer of protection for your valuable data. When switching to a new device, transferring your WhatsApp chats is possible. Android users can transfer backups from Google Drive, and iOS users can move them from iCloud. This ensures a seamless transition without losing your valuable conversations.
Restoring Chats from a Cloud Backup
Restoring your WhatsApp chats from a cloud backup is essential when switching to a new device or reinstalling the app. Here’s how to do it:
Install WhatsApp: Install WhatsApp on your new device if you haven’t already.
Verify Number: During the setup process, you’ll be prompted to verify your phone number. Make sure to use the same number you used for the previous WhatsApp installation.
Restore from Backup: When WhatsApp detects a backup associated with your number, it will ask if you want to restore your chat history. Tap “Restore” to proceed.
Wait for Restoration: Depending on the size of your backup, it might take some time to restore your chats and media. Ensure your device is connected to a stable internet connection during this process.
Completion: Once the restoration is complete, you’ll have all your chats and media back on your device, just as they were before.
Securing WhatsApp Backup
Securing your WhatsApp backups is crucial to protecting your data from unauthorized access. Follow these best practices to enhance the security of your backups:
Strong Cloud Account Password: Use a strong, unique password for your cloud storage account (Google Drive for Android or iCloud for iOS). Avoid using easily guessable passwords, and consider using a password manager.
Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication for your cloud storage account. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a verification code in addition to your password.
Regularly Update Passwords: Regularly update your cloud account passwords and consider changing them if you suspect any unauthorized access.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Avoid restoring backups or creating backups while connected to public Wi-Fi networks, as these are often less secure.
Encrypt Your Device: Use device encryption to ensure that even if your device falls into the wrong hands, your data remains protected.
FAQs
Where is the data saved on WhatsApp?
Media files are automatically saved in your WhatsApp/Media folder on Android devices. The WhatsApp folder can be found in your internal storage. The folder will be on your SD card or on an external SD card if you don’t have internal storage.
What is the time period for WhatsApp backups?
They link the phone number and Google account that are used for generating WhatsApp backups. Google may automatically remove any of their WhatsApp backups that they haven’t updated in the last five months.
Which folder in Google Drive is my WhatsApp backup?
Go to the “Storage” tab on the left side of the screen. Scroll down to the “Backups” section. It should be shown there with a name like “WhatsApp backup” if you have a backup of your WhatsApp stored in your Google Drive.
Can I access the previous backup of WhatsApp?
Sadly, as your chat history does not remain on the databases, you are unable to back up your data. Your Android device’s storage must be more than the size of the backup that you want to restore.
What happens if I don’t back up my WhatsApp data?
Without regular backups, you risk losing your conversations and media in the event of a device loss or malfunction. It’s wise to back up regularly to avoid this situation.
Conclusion
WhatsApp backup is an important feature that helps in the protection of your data. Depending on your device and preferences, you may specify where WhatsApp backups are saved. You may also quickly access and restore your backup if you use the same phone number and account. However, you should be aware of the restrictions and risks associated with each backup solution, and you should constantly check your backup settings and status on a regular basis. As a result, you can use WhatsApp without worrying about losing your data.
