Windows File History Bug Confirmed by Microsoft With Fixes Available

Microsoft has acknowledged a Windows backup issue affecting File History on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, after users reported persistent warnings and failed backups.

File History bug triggers false reconnect warning

According to reports highlighted by Neowin, the issue causes a repeated “Reconnect your File History drive” warning, even when the backup drive remains properly connected.

Users say backups stop unexpectedly, while the system continues to display the alert regardless of the drive’s actual status. In some cases, the warning appears even if the drive was never disconnected. While only dozens of reports have been confirmed publicly, the actual number of affected users is likely higher.

What causes the File History issue

Microsoft explained that the system mistakenly assumes the backup location has been disconnected for too long. This behavior affects both external USB drives and network-based backup locations, which can lead to backups stopping without a clear indication beyond the warning.

How to fix the problem

Microsoft says the issue can usually be resolved with simple actions. For external drives, ensuring the device is properly connected and allowing the system to resume backups often resolves the warning, although users can also manually trigger a backup if needed.

For network locations, the fix involves reselecting the backup location within File History settings and running a manual backup to restore normal operation.

Why this issue matters

The bug does not delete files or corrupt existing backups, but it can interrupt the backup process silently. This makes it a reliability issue rather than a critical failure, though it still poses a risk if users assume their data remains protected.

In related developments, Microsoft recently revealed its plans for OneDrive in 2026, released an emergency .NET security update, and continues to face exposure concerns as more than 1,300 SharePoint servers remain vulnerable to a newly disclosed flaw.