How to restore a WhatsApp backup?

Restoring a backup in WhatsApp allows you to recover all your messages and media files that were saved at the time the backup was created. Below, we explain the steps to ensure you have a backup and how to restore it, either from Google Drive or locally.

Check if a backup exists

Before proceeding, make sure you have an available backup:

1. Open WhatsApp and tap the three dots in the top-right corner.
2. Select “Settings”.
3. Go to “Chats” > “Chat backup”.
4. Check if you have a backup saved on Google Drive or locally.
5. If no backup exists, select your Google account and tap “Back up” to create one.

How to restore a backup from WhatsApp?

To restore a backup from Google Drive, follow these steps:

1. Uninstall WhatsApp from the Google Play Store.
2. Reinstall it by searching for WhatsApp in the search bar and selecting “Install”.
3. Once installed, open the app and accept the required permissions.
4. Enter the phone number you used to create the backup and verify it using the SMS code.
5. WhatsApp will notify you about the available backup. Tap “Restore” to recover your chats and files.

Note: It is essential to use the same phone number associated with the backup.

How to restore a local backup?

If you don’t have a Google Drive backup, WhatsApp will automatically restore the most recent local backup. However, if you’ve switched devices and want to recover your chats, you can manually transfer the files with these steps:

1. Connect your old device to a PC or use a file manager.
2. Navigate to the “WhatsApp > Databases” folder.
3. Copy the latest backup file and transfer it to an SD card or directly to the “Databases” folder on the new device.
4. Install WhatsApp on the new device.
5. Verify your phone number, and when prompted, tap “Restore”.

How to restore an older local backup?

If you want to restore an older local backup, follow these steps:

1. Access the file manager on your phone or use a file management app.
2. Go to the “WhatsApp > Databases” folder.
3. Find the backup file you want to restore. Its name will look like “msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.1.db.crypt12”.
4. Rename the desired backup file to “msgstore.db.crypt12” (do not modify the protocol number).
5. Uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp.
6. During the setup process, select “Restore” when prompted.

Note: If the file has an older protocol, like “crypt10”, do not change the protocol number.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can restore your messages and media files in WhatsApp without complications. Whether from Google Drive or a local backup, you will have access to your previous conversations and media content quickly and easily. Secure your data and never lose your important chats!