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September 3, 2024
Solved

Backup options

  • September 3, 2024
  • 1 reply
  • 11 views

Question: If we make a local backup and set a maximum number of backup files to exist, is there a way to have the system automatically delete the oldest file when the max number is reached? Ideally I would like the backup to run at night when no one is on the system, but if the backup doesn't really complete because it's waiting for someone to respond to the question of whether it's ok to delete the oldest file, that sort of deletes the purpose, sort of.

Best answer by LouiseG12

Hi there, Deadwood.

 

When performing a local backup in QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) and the maximum number of files is reached, old files cannot be deleted automatically. Thus, you'll need to delete the files manually when the maximum number of backups is reached.

 

Moreover, if you encounter an issue while restoring your backup file, you can utilize this article for ideas on resolving it: Fix backup company file issues in QuickBooks Desktop.

 

Let us know if you have additional questions regarding backing up your company files in QBDT. We're always here to assist you.

1 reply

LouiseG12QuickBooks TeamAnswer
QuickBooks Team
September 3, 2024

Hi there, Deadwood.

 

When performing a local backup in QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) and the maximum number of files is reached, old files cannot be deleted automatically. Thus, you'll need to delete the files manually when the maximum number of backups is reached.

 

Moreover, if you encounter an issue while restoring your backup file, you can utilize this article for ideas on resolving it: Fix backup company file issues in QuickBooks Desktop.

 

Let us know if you have additional questions regarding backing up your company files in QBDT. We're always here to assist you.

March 4, 2026

If my QB backs up often, what is the most recent updates I need to keep in my document file?  Wouldn't the latest backup be the only one I really need?  Thanks

QuickBooks Team
March 4, 2026

Hi, Nice Jons. You're right that your most recent backup contains all your current data. However, keeping multiple backups from different time points is highly recommended for extra security.

 

This way, if your latest backup becomes corrupted or you need to recover a mistake made days or weeks ago, you'll have earlier versions to restore from. This also protects against accidental deletions and meets compliance requirements for some businesses.

 

The best practice is the 3-2-1 rule: Keep three copies of your data on two different types of media (computer and external drive), with one copy stored offsite (in the cloud or a separate location).

 

You can also refer to this blog for more details on how it works and additional data backup tips: https://quickbooks.intuit.com/r/bookkeeping/data-backup/.

 

Please let me know if there's anything else I can help you with.