Many users of Carbonite encounter the frustrating issue where backups stop unexpectedly, showing as stuck or paused. This can prevent files from being safely backed up, leaving your important data at risk.

This guide explains why Carbonite backups get stuck, how to resolve paused backups, and tips to prevent future interruptions.

Common Reasons Carbonite Backup Gets Stuck or Paused

1. Paused Backup

   • Backups can be paused manually or automatically due to CPU, network, or power settings.

2. Large Initial Backup

   • The first backup or large file sets can take hours or even days, appearing stuck.

3. Software Outdated

   • Older versions may have bugs that cause backup interruptions.

4. Connectivity Issues

   • Slow or unstable internet can cause backups to pause.

5. Firewall or Antivirus Interference

   • Security software may block backup processes.

6. File or Disk Issues

   • Corrupted files, insufficient local storage, or permissions issues can halt backups.

7. Cloud Storage Limits

   • Exceeding your Carbonite plan storage may prevent backups from progressing.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix Stuck or Paused Backup

1️⃣ Check Backup Status

Windows:

• Click the Carbonite icon in the system tray.

• Confirm if the backup is Paused or Backing Up.

• If paused, click Resume Backup.

Mac:

• Click the Carbonite menu bar icon.

• Look for paused status and resume backup if necessary.

2️⃣ Update Carbonite Software

• Open Carbonite → Settings → Check for Updates

• Install any available updates.

• Restart your computer to apply updates.

Updating ensures bug fixes and improved performance.

3️⃣ Check Internet Connection

• Ensure a stable, high-speed internet connection.

• Restart your router if necessary.

• Avoid heavy network usage while backup is running.

4️⃣ Review File Selection

• Open Settings → Files and Folders

• Make sure all desired files are selected for backup.

• Remove any files causing repeated errors (check logs).

5️⃣ Check Firewall & Antivirus Settings

• Add Carbonite to your firewall and antivirus exceptions.

• Temporarily disable antivirus to test if backup resumes.

6️⃣ Free Up Disk Space

• Carbonite needs temporary local storage for files before uploading.

• Delete unnecessary files or move them to another drive.

7️⃣ Restart Carbonite Service

Windows:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Services tab

2. Find Carbonite Backup Service → Right-click → Restart

Mac:

1. Open Activity Monitor → Find Carbonite processes → Quit

2. Relaunch Carbonite app

Restarting the service often clears stuck backups.

8️⃣ Restart Computer

• Sometimes a simple restart resolves paused or stuck backups.

9️⃣ Check Backup Logs

• Windows: C:\ProgramData\Carbonite\Logs

• Mac: ~/Library/Logs/Carbonite/

• Look for error codes or skipped files causing the pause.

10️⃣ Reinstall Carbonite (If Needed)

• Uninstall Carbonite completely.

• Restart the computer.

• Download the latest version from your Carbonite account.

• Reinstall, sign in, and restart backup.

Business Users: Stalled Backup Fixes

• Check endpoint agents on all devices.

• Ensure servers and network drives are online.

• Monitor multiple device backups in the admin portal.

• Contact Carbonite business support if backups remain stuck.

Preventing Backup from Getting Stuck

• Keep Carbonite software updated.

• Monitor backup progress regularly.

• Ensure files are in supported formats and locations.

• Schedule backups during off-peak hours for large datasets.

• Avoid moving or renaming files during active backup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why is my Carbonite backup stuck for hours?
Large initial backups or slow internet can make backups appear stuck. Monitoring logs can reveal if files are uploading.

Q2: Can paused backups damage my files?
No. Files remain safe; backups resume when issues are resolved.

Q3: How long should an initial backup take?
Depending on size and internet speed, it may take hours or several days.

Q4: Do I need admin rights to fix paused backups?
Yes, some steps like restarting services or reinstalling Carbonite require administrative privileges.

Final Thoughts

A stuck or paused Carbonite backup is usually caused by software conflicts, connectivity problems, or large initial backups. Following these steps — checking status, updating software, verifying internet, managing files, and restarting services — will help resume your backups efficiently.

Regular monitoring and preventive practices ensure continuous protection of your important data.