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File backup no longer working

PerfTO-6045 20 Reputation points
2025-08-14T22:21:06.5433333+00:00

Windows 10 Home - Build 19045.6093

I have secheduled my data files backup onto local USB drive, it's been working fine until recently that I have loggin as admin and changed that with Microsoft account and all of suden that the windows update start downloading files (and install) even though that I have delayed the update until the end of month.

After the system settled down, I switched back to my local account and found:

  1. the Chrome browser no longer working (would not launch) when I click the icon in the task bar,
  2. the scheduled backup did not execute

With local account :

  1. I uninstall and reinstall the chrome browser (with elevated privilage)
    1. the icon will launch the browser but when right click it wouldn't launch "new window" nor "Incognito window" pop up message that the file is either moved or can't be found.
  2. Tried to mount the external drive for file backup
    1. it will shown and named correctly the target drive
    2. when click add, nothing have shown on screen
    3. go to more option and the File History in control panel shown the drive but when I tried to turn it on, warning window pop up said "...the service could not be started either it is not associated or not enabled.."
    4. the usb drive has all the config folder and data folder intacted
    5. Event log did not show any error during that time span
    6. a new user file back up folder did created in the drive (above 2b)

With Admin (microsoft) account :

  1. Ran SFC
    1. fixed some duplcated profiles and other things
    2. Above mentioned problems (chrome file location removed + can not run the file backup) still there
  2. Ran DISM - Restorehealth (online)
    1. No error found
    2. Ran SFC check once more - all good

Any one has any suggestion to fix this? looks like the setup microsoft account as admin is big mistake which it might (guessing) allow it to implement Group Policy to prevent local backup and direct the backup to OneDrive.??

Thank you in advance for any suggestion.

-Albert

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Recovery and backup
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Accepted answer
  1. Jeronimo Fuerte 16,785 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-08-14T22:59:30.9366667+00:00

    Hi! The error “the service could not be started either it is not associated or not enabled” usually means the File History Service (and/or related services) is disabled or broken in your profile after the account switch.

    Check and re-enable required services

    1. Press Win + R, type: services.msc
    2. Locate and ensure the following are Running and Startup type is Automatic:
      • File History Service
      • Windows Search
      • Storage Service
      • Work Folders
    3. If any are disabled, right-click >Properties > set to Automatic > Start.

    Sometimes switching accounts causes File History to “lose” its association with the drive.

    1. Open Control Panel > File History.
    2. Click Turn off, if it’s stuck, you may need to stop the service in Services.msc.
    3. Disconnect and reconnect your USB drive.
    4. Click Select drive > pick your USB drive again.
    5. Turn File History back on.

    In regards to Chrome app, look for the installation path and look for the Chrome.exe file, create a new desktop shortcut, delete the ones pined to the taskbar and add this new one please.

    1 person found this answer helpful.

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