Windows backup error: settings partially backed up

Partially backed up usually means the settings, apps, and credentials are backed up, but some files are not fully backed up to OneDrive.

For Windows Backup settings specifically, check this first:

1. Open Settings > Accounts > Windows backup.
2. Expand each backup category.
3. Verify the toggles for the settings to keep are turned On:
   • Installed apps
   • Accessibility
   • Accounts, Wi-Fi network and passwords
   • Personalization
   • Language preferences and dictionary
   • Other Windows settings
4. If a category shows Backed up, that setting was already backed up and the toggle may be unavailable.
5. Select Back up again.

Important checks for the Partially backed up state:

• Sign in with a personal Microsoft account. Windows Backup is focused on consumer devices using a personal Microsoft account. Work or school accounts are not supported for this.
• Check OneDrive. If Windows Backup shows an error from OneDrive, common causes are:
  • not signed in to OneDrive
  • insufficient OneDrive storage
  • another OneDrive issue that must be fixed first
• Personalization backup depends on OneDrive. Wallpaper, theme, colors, and similar personalization settings require OneDrive sign-in and available OneDrive storage.

If the goal is to preserve settings before reinstalling Windows 11, the supported path is:

1. Confirm the Windows backup categories above are enabled.
2. Resolve any OneDrive sign-in or storage issue.
3. Run Back up until Windows Backup shows the current backup state without errors.
4. Recheck backup status in Settings > Accounts > Windows backup or in the Windows Backup app.

If the message still says Partially backed up, that commonly indicates the problem is with file backup to OneDrive rather than the settings categories themselves.

• Back up and restore with Windows Backup
• Windows Backup Settings Catalog
• Back up and restore with Windows Backup
• KB5032038: Overview of Windows Backup as installed in Windows 10 and Windows 11
• How do i fix windows back up error saying partially backed up - Microsoft Q&A