The ‘Element Not Found’ error in Windows 10 File History can be confusing, especially if you rely on it for regular backups. This error usually appears when File History cannot locate a specific file, folder, or backup version it previously saved. It is often caused by changes to the file system, such as deleting or moving files, or problems with the connected backup drive.
When this error occurs, you might see a message indicating that a particular element or file is missing. This can halt your backup process temporarily, leaving some files unbacked or causing errors during backup attempts. Understanding the common scenarios helps you troubleshoot effectively.
Common Situations Leading to the Error
Deleting or renaming files or folders that are part of a backup set.
Removing or disconnecting the external drive used for backups.
Corruption or issues with the backup storage drive.
File system errors or disk errors on the backup drive.
Inconsistencies in file paths after system updates or drive changes.
Impact on Backup Processes
This error can prevent File History from completing its backups, leaving some files out of date or missing. In some cases, the error causes repeated backup failures for specific files, which may lead to incomplete data recovery options. If ignored, it might cause confusion or make users think backups are not working properly.
Why Understanding the Error Is Important
Knowing what triggers the ‘Element Not Found’ error helps in choosing the right troubleshooting steps. It also prevents unnecessary loss of data by ensuring your backups are complete and reliable. Recognizing this error early allows you to maintain smooth backup operations and avoid data loss risks.
Common Causes of Windows 10 File History Failures
File History is a useful feature in Windows 10 that automatically backs up your files to help protect against data loss. However, sometimes it fails to work correctly. Understanding the typical reasons behind File History failures can help you troubleshoot and resolve issues quickly. These failures often stem from hardware problems, corrupted files, or configuration errors.
Hardware Issues
One of the most common causes is hardware problems, especially with the external drive or network location used for backups. If the drive is disconnected, faulty, or improperly formatted, File History cannot save your backups. For example, a failing external hard drive may intermittently disconnect, causing backup failures. Additionally, if the device lacks enough space or has issues with permissions, errors will occur.
Corrupted Files or System Files
Corruption within files or the system itself can disrupt File History. If certain files are corrupted or locked by other processes, Windows may be unable to back them up. System files necessary for File History’s operation might also be damaged, especially after incomplete updates or malware infections. Running system file checks can sometimes fix these issues.
Incorrect Configuration Settings
Misconfigured settings are a frequent cause of File History failures. If the target drive is not selected correctly, or if the File History service is disabled or not set to start automatically, backups will not occur. Additionally, conflicts with other backup tools or security software can prevent proper operation. Ensuring the service is enabled and configured properly is key to fixing this.
Permission Issues
If Windows does not have the proper permissions to access the backup location, File History will fail. This can happen if user permissions are changed or if the backup drive’s security settings are restrictive. Make sure your user account has full control over the backup drive or folder.
Network Problems
When backing up to a network location, network connectivity issues or server problems can cause failures. Unstable Wi-Fi connections or server outages can interrupt or prevent backups. Checking your network connection and ensuring the network location is accessible can resolve these issues.
Software Conflicts and Updates
Software conflicts, especially with third-party backup tools or security software, may interfere with File History. Outdated Windows versions or pending updates can also cause compatibility problems. Keeping Windows updated and temporarily disabling conflicting software can help identify and fix the root cause.
By identifying these common causes, you can troubleshoot effectively when File History fails. Starting with hardware checks, reviewing settings, and ensuring system integrity often resolves the most frequent issues. If problems persist, consult Windows support resources or consider using alternative backup methods.
How to Reset and Reconfigure File History Step-by-Step
If you’re experiencing issues with File History in Windows 10, resetting and reconfiguring it can often resolve errors and restore backup functionality. File History is a useful feature that automatically backs up your files, but sometimes its settings or cache can cause problems. Follow these simple steps to reset and set up File History again, ensuring your files are protected correctly.
Open Settings. Click on the Start menu and select the gear icon to open the Settings app. Alternatively, press Windows key + I on your keyboard. This will bring up the main Settings window where you can manage updates, devices, and more.
Access Backup Settings. In Settings, click on Update & Security and then choose Backup from the left sidebar. Here, you will see options related to File History and other backup features.
Stop Current File History Backup. If File History is currently running, click the Stop using this drive button. This prevents errors or conflicts during the reset process. Make sure to disconnect any external drives if needed.
Remove the Existing File History Drive. Scroll down to find More options. Click on it, then select Stop using this drive. Now, go back and click Select a drive. Choose the drive you want to reset or reconfigure. If it’s listed, select it, then click Remove to clear current settings.
Clear Old Backup Files. To fully reset, you’ll need to delete any existing File History data. Navigate to the drive or folder where your backups are stored. Delete the File History folder or backup data manually to start fresh.
Re-enable File History and Choose a Drive. Return to Backup settings. Click on Add a drive and select the drive you want to use for backups. Ensure it’s an external or network location with enough space for your backups.
Configure Advanced Settings. Under More options, you can customize how often File History runs and how long backups are kept. Adjust these settings based on your needs to optimize performance and storage.
Start the Backup Process. Once configured, toggle on the main File History switch if it isn’t already. Click Back up now to initiate your first backup. Wait for the process to complete, especially if you have many files.
Verify the Backup. After the backup completes, test restoring a file to ensure everything works properly. Open File History from the Control Panel or Settings and browse recent backups to check their contents.
By following these steps, you can reset and reconfigure File History in Windows 10 effectively. This process helps in fixing backup errors, clearing corrupt files, and ensuring your important data stays protected. Remember to regularly check your File History settings and verify backups to avoid future issues.
Tips to Prevent Future ‘Element Not Found’ Errors
The ‘Element Not Found’ error in backup processes can be frustrating, but with some practical steps, you can reduce the chances of it happening again. This error typically occurs when the backup software cannot locate a specific file, folder, or database element during the backup. To prevent this issue, consider implementing the following best practices.
Verify the Existence of Files and Folders Regularly
Make it a habit to check that all the files, folders, or databases you want to back up are present and accessible. Sometimes, files are moved, renamed, or deleted without updating the backup plan. Regularly reviewing your source data helps ensure everything is in place before scheduling backups.
Use Absolute Paths in Backup Settings
Always specify the full, absolute paths for source elements in your backup configuration. Relative paths can cause confusion if the working directory changes, leading to ‘Element Not Found’ errors. Double-check path accuracy to ensure the backup software can locate your files.
Exclude Unnecessary or Transient Files
Avoid backing up temporary or system files that frequently change or are removed. Use filters within your backup software to exclude these elements. This prevents false errors due to files that are intentionally missing or in use during backup time.
Keep Your Backup Software Up to Date
Software updates often include bug fixes and improved compatibility with your file system. Regularly update your backup application to benefit from these improvements, reducing the chances of misfired element detection.
Schedule Backups During Low-Activity Periods
Run backups when your system is least active. During high activity, files may be temporarily locked or moved, which can cause the software to fail to find them. Scheduling during low-traffic times ensures files are more stable and accessible.
Implement Error Handling and Logging
Configure your backup program to log detailed errors and warnings. This way, if an ‘Element Not Found’ error occurs, you can review the log to identify which element caused the problem and address it proactively.
Test Restores Frequently
Perform test restores periodically to verify your backups’ integrity. This helps catch and fix any issues, like missing elements, early on so they do not disrupt your backup and recovery process when needed.
Following these tips can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering ‘Element Not Found’ errors in your backups. Regular maintenance, careful planning, and timely updates are key. Always stay organized and keep your backup environment clean and well-documented to prevent surprises when you least expect them.
Troubleshooting Hardware Issues Affecting File History
When File History stops working or does not back up your files as expected, hardware problems may be the cause. Issues with external drives, network storage, or internal components can prevent File History from functioning properly. Diagnosing and fixing these hardware issues can restore smooth backup operations.
Check the storage device connection. If you are using an external drive, ensure it is properly connected to your computer. Unplug and reconnect the device, using different ports if available. Look for any loose cables or damaged connectors that could disrupt data transfer.
Test the storage device on another computer. To confirm if the drive itself is causing problems, connect it to a different machine. If it does not work there either, the drive may be faulty or corrupted. Consider trying a different backup device if available.
Inspect for hardware errors. Windows has built-in tools to check your drives. Open File Explorer, right-click the drive used for File History backups, select Properties, then go to Tools. Click on Check under Error checking. Follow instructions to scan and repair any issues.
Ensure the drive has enough free space. A full hard drive or external storage prevents new backups. Check the drive’s free space in File Explorer. Delete unnecessary files or expand storage if needed.
Verify network hardware for network backups. If you’re backing up to a network share, confirm your network hardware is functioning. Restart routers, switches, or NAS devices. Make sure your computer is connected reliably to the network.
Test network share accessibility. Open File Explorer and navigate to the network location used for File History. If you cannot access it, verify sharing permissions, restart your network hardware, or reconnect to the network.
Update drivers and firmware. Hardware issues can stem from outdated drivers. Visit your device manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers for your storage devices, network adapters, and motherboard firmware.
Perform hardware diagnostics. Most manufacturers offer diagnostic tools—run these to detect failing drives or defective components. For example, Western Digital, Seagate, or Dell provide such utilities.
Prevent hardware damage. Keep storage devices away from extreme temperatures, static electricity, and physical shocks. Use surge protectors to avoid power surges damaging your hardware.
Seek professional help if needed. If hardware problems persist despite troubleshooting, consult a professional technician. Hardware failures like dying drives often require replacement.
Issue
Possible Cause
Recommended Action
External drive not recognized
Loose connection or drive failure
Reconnect cables, test on another machine, or replace the drive
Experiencing issues with corrupt backup files in File History can be frustrating, especially when you rely on these backups to restore important files. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to identify and repair corrupt backup files to ensure your backup history remains reliable. This guide will walk you through practical solutions to resolve common issues with corrupt File History backups.
Check the Backup Drive for Errors
Before attempting to repair your backup files, verify that your external or network drive is functioning properly. A faulty drive can cause corrupt backups. To do this, connect the drive to your computer and run a disk check:
Open This PC or File Explorer.
Right-click the drive and select Properties.
Navigate to the Tools tab and click Check.
Follow the prompts to scan and repair any disk errors.
If errors are found, allow Windows to fix them. Afterward, try accessing your backup files again.
Identify Corrupt Backup Files
Corrupt backups often display error messages or prevent restoring files. To identify problematic backups:
Open File History settings from Control Panel.
Review backup dates and check for error messages or inconsistencies.
If a backup appears corrupted, consider skipping or deleting it before proceeding.
Use the Command Prompt to Repair Backup Files
If some backup files are corrupt, a utility like Robocopy can help recover readable data. To do so:
Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Type the command below, replacing source and destination with your actual folder paths:
robocopy /E /R:3 /W:5
This copies files and attempts to recover minor issues during the process. Review the logs for errors or failures.
Robocopy does not fix the corrupt files directly but can salvage readable data from damaged backups.
Create a New Backup Set
If your current backup is severely corrupted, it’s best to start anew:
Disconnect or disable the current backup drive in File History settings.
Delete existing backup files on the drive to avoid confusion.
Re-enable File History and select a new or cleaned drive to create a fresh backup set.
This approach often resolves persistent corruption issues and ensures future backups are clean.
Prevent Future Backup Corruption
To reduce the risk of backup file corruption, follow these best practices:
Regularly check your backup drive for errors.
Avoid disconnecting the drive during backup operations.
Keep Windows updated.
Use reliable, high-quality storage devices for backups, especially for critical data.
If problems continue despite these steps, consider alternative backup solutions or seek expert data recovery services. Maintaining the health of your backups is vital for safeguarding your files against hardware failures or data corruption.
