One of the most critical functions of Carbonite is file restoration. However, users sometimes experience restore failures or incomplete restores, leaving them unable to access their important files.

This guide explains the reasons behind failed or incomplete restores and provides step-by-step solutions to help you recover your data safely.

Common Reasons for Restore Failures

1. Connectivity Issues

   • Slow or unstable internet can interrupt downloads.

2. Software Outdated

   • Older versions of Carbonite may cause restore errors.

3. Corrupted Backup

   • Interrupted or corrupted backup files cannot be fully restored.

4. Insufficient Disk Space

   • Local storage must be available to restore files.

5. Incorrect Restore Location

   • Files may be restored to a location you’re not expecting.

6. File Permissions or Locked Files

   • Restricted or system files may not restore without proper permissions.

7. Subscription or Account Issues

   • Expired or inactive subscription can prevent restoration.

8. Large File or Batch Restore

   • Restoring many files at once or large files may cause timeouts.

Step-by-Step Solutions for Restore Failures

1️⃣ Check Internet Connection

• Ensure your connection is stable with adequate download speed.

• Pause other downloads or streaming services to free bandwidth.

2️⃣ Update Carbonite Software

• Open Carbonite → Settings → Check for Updates

• Install the latest version to fix bugs that may affect restores.

3️⃣ Verify Subscription and Account

• Ensure your Carbonite subscription is active.

• Confirm you’re logged into the correct account.

• Check storage limits to ensure restore is allowed.

4️⃣ Free Up Local Disk Space

• Make sure there’s enough space for restored files.

• Move or delete unnecessary files if required.

5️⃣ Restore Files to a Different Location

• Sometimes permission issues prevent files from restoring to their original location.

• Try restoring to Desktop or another folder with full write permissions.

6️⃣ Check File Permissions

Windows:

1. Right-click the restore folder → Properties → Security → Ensure full control

Mac:

1. Right-click folder → Get Info → Check sharing & permissions

7️⃣ Restore Smaller Batches

• Instead of restoring all files at once, restore files in smaller groups.

• Reduces the chance of timeout errors or interruptions.

8️⃣ Check Backup Logs for Errors

• Windows: C:\ProgramData\Carbonite\Logs

• Mac: ~/Library/Logs/Carbonite/

• Look for error codes or failed file names to troubleshoot further.

9️⃣ Retry or Resume Restore

• Sometimes simply restarting the restore resolves temporary glitches.

• Pause and resume the restore if supported in your version.

10️⃣ Contact Carbonite Support

• Provide error codes, logs, file names, and account details.

• Support can assist in recovering files that fail to restore.

Business Users: Restore Considerations

• Ensure endpoint agents are active for all devices.

• Verify server or NAS devices are online.

• Restore critical folders first to reduce potential errors.

• Check Microsoft 365 or business-specific restore settings.

Tips to Prevent Restore Issues

• Keep Carbonite software updated.

• Monitor backup and restore progress regularly.

• Maintain sufficient local storage for restored files.

• Avoid moving or renaming files during backup or restore.

• Backup incrementally to reduce large restore batches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why is my Carbonite restore incomplete?
Partial restores often occur due to connectivity issues, insufficient disk space, or corrupted backup files.

Q2: Can I recover files not restored?
Yes, check online backup for missing files or contact support for assistance.

Q3: Does restoring many files at once slow down the process?
Yes, restoring smaller batches is recommended for large datasets.

Q4: Will my restored files overwrite existing ones?
Carbonite gives options to overwrite, rename, or restore to a different location.

Final Thoughts

Restore failures or incomplete restores in Carbonite are usually caused by network problems, insufficient disk space, permissions issues, or software glitches. By following these steps — checking connection, updating software, verifying permissions, and restoring in smaller batches — you can recover your files efficiently.

Regular monitoring, preventive measures, and proper system maintenance help ensure smooth restores when you need your data most.