Win 2k pro backup stops at 4 GB

[JimT99]

Hi, I'm trying to do a normal backup of 12 GB of data on a 20 GB external hard drive. For some reason, the backup program gets a little over 4 GB done, and then says the disc is full, which is not true. I can do another backup with a different 4 GB of files on the same drive, without deleting the previous backup. Windows explorer also says that drive has plenty of space.

Does anyone know how I can get the full 12 GB of data in one backup file?

I've got another question: Once I've got the full normal backup on the external drive, can I put the differential backups on a flash drive, or do they need to go on the same drive as the full backup? Thank you much. --Jim

 

[goombawaho]

See if the external hard drive File System is FAT32. FAT32 files systems are limited to 4GB files so that would explain it!!!!!!!

You will need to convert the external drive to NTFS as follows:
Assuming the drive letter was G: go to a CMD prompt and type convert G: /FS:NTFS
It may take a few minutes. Then you should be able to do your backup without an issue.

The second question. I've never done it, but I think it's possible. Maybe someone else can confirm while I'm checking that out.

 

[JimT99]

OK, that's great that it's so easy to fix. I did indeed format the drive as a FAT. I vaguely remember something about 4 GB max on FAT files. I'll convert it to NTFS, and I should be back in business. Thank you much for the info. I'll keep watching for a reply on the 2nd question. Take care. --Jim