How to Backup and Restore GB WhatsApp Chats Complete Guide in 2025

In this article, you’ll learn how to Backup and Restore GB WhatsApp Chats, photos, and videos, whether you’re switching phones or lost your chats accidentally.

Backing up your GB WhatsApp chats keeps your messages, photos, and voice notes safe from data loss. This complete guide helps you create secure local and cloud backups with step-by-step instructions. You’ll learn how to restore chats easily, fix common backup errors, and ensure smooth data transfer.

Basic Understanding of Backup and Restore GB WhatsApp Chats

Backing up chats secures messages, photos, videos, and voice notes. GB WhatsApp offers multiple methods, each with its own benefits.

Local Backup vs Cloud Backup

Local backup stores data in internal storage or SD card, making it quick, offline, and easy to access. Best when you don’t depend on the internet.

Cloud backup (Google Drive) saves chats online for cross-device restore. It allows retention, flexible frequency, and recovery after phone change. Needs stable internet, storage space, and compatible formats.

Choice depends on storage availability, device support, and accessibility needs.

Encrypted Backups

Encrypted backups ensure end-to-end security for chats, media, and databases. This protects privacy even if the phone is lost or stolen. Backup verification confirms safe migration and prevents unauthorized access.

Auto Backup Settings

Auto backup allows scheduled saving (daily, weekly, monthly) for chats and media. Users can adjust frequency, manage backup size, and monitor notifications. Automation reduces manual errors and ensures constant data safety.

Preparing for a GB WhatsApp Backup

Preparing your device before backup avoids failures and data loss. Key checks include storage, permissions, and version compatibility.

Checking Storage Availability on Your Device

Backups require enough device storage in internal memory or an SD card. Users should compare the backup size with available space, clear unnecessary files, and adjust app settings if needed. Running backup verification after saving confirms that chats and media were stored correctly. Proper storage management prevents incomplete backups.

Ensuring App Permissions for Storage and Access

GB WhatsApp needs app permissions for read/write access and storage access. On Android, users must enable the correct permissions, while iOS requires similar settings. These permissions allow smooth secure data transfer during cloud backups and reduce the risk of backup errors. Confirming permissions in advance ensures reliable backup management.

Confirming the Version Compatibility for Smooth Backup

Backups depend on the app version or APK version. Outdated versions may lead to backup errors, restore errors, or loss of data integrity. Checking device compatibility and keeping GB WhatsApp updated ensures smoother restores with predictable backup recovery time.

Verifying compatibility ensures backups remain consistent, secure, and easy to restore without risk of data corruption.

Step-by-Step Guide to Back Up GB WhatsApp Chats

Backing up your GB WhatsApp chats is like keeping a safety net for your memories. Whether it’s funny group messages, important work updates, or personal photos, a proper backup process ensures your chat history is never lost.

In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn different backup methods, from manual file copying to using the built-in backup feature. This way, you can restore your GB WhatsApp chats smoothly on Android or iOS whenever you switch devices or face app issues.

Manual Backup Method (Internal Storage)

A manual backup gives you full control over where your files go. Instead of relying on automation, you use your file manager to copy and save important data. This method works best if you want to keep multiple backup copies on external storage like an SD card or PC.

1. Locate GB WhatsApp Folder

Every GB WhatsApp installation creates a GB WhatsApp folder in your phone’s internal storage. Inside this folder, you’ll find a structured file directory that stores your chat database, media subfolders, and backup folder.

Knowing the exact storage path ensures you can always find your chat history when you need it.

2. Copy Chat Database Files

The heart of your chat backup lies in the messages.db.crypt12 file (sometimes labeled as msgstore.db.crypt12). This file contains your entire chat database, including messages and metadata.

To copy safely:

Always check file integrity after transfer. A corrupted database backup means your restore process may fail.

3. Backup Media Files

Chats feel incomplete without media. GB WhatsApp stores all photos, videos, audio files, documents, voice notes, stickers, and wallpapers inside the Media folder.

4. Store Backup in Safe Location 

Once copied, your backup needs a safe location. Keeping everything only in internal storage is risky.

Options include:

A second copy reduces risk during device migration or accidental phone damage.

Using Built-in GB WhatsApp Backup Feature

If manual copying feels complex, GB WhatsApp offers a built-in backup feature in its settings. It allows in-app backup, chat export, local backup, and cloud backup with just a few taps.

1. Access Backup Settings

2. Initiate Local Backup

When you hit Back Up Now, GB WhatsApp creates a local backup file.

3. Schedule Auto-Backup

Auto-backup saves you from forgetting.

This automation protects your chats if your phone crashes unexpectedly.

4. Verify Backup Completion

A backup is useless if it’s incomplete. Always:

This ensures data integrity and prevents surprises later.

Tips for Backing Up Media Files Efficiently

1. Selective Media Backup

2. Compress Large Files

3. Organize Media for Easy Restore

Backing Up GB WhatsApp to Google Drive or Other Cloud Services

Backing up GB WhatsApp chats to the cloud keeps your chat history, media files, and data safe, even if your phone is lost or damaged. Unlike local backup that stays in your internal storage or SD card, cloud backups let you restore your data on any device. Let’s walk through the complete backup process with clear steps, pros and cons, and troubleshooting tips.

Step-by-Step Cloud Backup Guide

Backing up to Google Drive or other cloud storage is simple. Here’s how you can set it up.

1. Link GB WhatsApp to Cloud Account

First, you need to connect your GB WhatsApp with a cloud account. Most people use Google Drive with their Gmail login, but you can also choose Dropbox, OneDrive, or Mega.

• Go to GB WhatsApp settings → Chats → Backup.
• Select Google Drive link or another cloud authentication option.
• Allow required app permissions like account sync and backup access.

This ensures your backup files are uploaded securely to your chosen cloud account.

2. Choose Backup Frequency 

You can decide how often your cloud backup runs.

1. Daily backup – Best if you chat a lot.
2. Weekly backup – Balanced option for most users.
3. Manual backup – When you prefer control over backup scheduling.

Setting a recurring backup frequency ensures your chat history and media backup are always up to date.

3. Start Cloud Backup 

Once linked, you can start backup anytime.

• Tap Initiate backup from the settings.
• Check the upload progress with a progress bar or backup logs.
• Use Wi-Fi instead of mobile data for faster and cheaper data transfer.

This step makes sure your messages, photos, videos, and voice notes are safely uploaded to the cloud.

4. Confirm Successful Upload

Never assume the backup process is complete – always verify.

• Look for a success notification or backup timestamp.
• Compare the file size with your expected backup folder.
• Open your Google Drive dashboard (or Dropbox/OneDrive) and check if the backup file is visible.
• Do a quick restore test on another device to confirm data integrity.

This way, you know your backup verification is done correctly.

1. Pros and Cons of Using Google Drive vs Alternative Cloud Storage

Not sure whether to stick with Google Drive or explore other options? Let’s break it down.

Pros	Cons
Free 15GB storage with your Google account.	Storage quota fills up fast, especially with large media files.
Smooth Android integration and multi-device sync.	Backup failure can happen if your internet connection is weak.
Simple restore process with strong cloud encryption.	Some users face sync delay, file size errors, or restore corruption.
Great for users already in the Google ecosystem.	Heavily dependent on stable network connectivity.

2. Alternative Cloud Options

If Google Drive doesn’t fit your needs, try:

Dropbox – Simple, secure, and supports multi-platform sync.

OneDrive – Best for Windows users with Office integration.

Mega – Provides end-to-end encryption and 50GB free storage.

These cloud alternatives are excellent for users who need advanced security or more free storage plans.

3. Choosing the Best Cloud Service

When picking a cloud service, think about:

• Storage size – Enough space for chat history and media backup.
• Encryption strength – Some clouds use zero-knowledge storage for maximum safety.
• Backup reliability – Choose a service with fewer restore errors.
• Pricing model – Decide between free storage and paid subscription services.

Troubleshooting Common Cloud Backup Errors & Fixes

Even the best cloud backup setups sometimes face error messages. Here’s how to fix them.

1. Backup Not Detected 

2. Insufficient Storage Error 

3. Cloud Restore Fails

How to Restore GB WhatsApp Chats on the Same Device

Losing your chat history can feel stressful, but restoring your GB WhatsApp on the same device is simpler than it looks. Whether you’re on Android or iPhone, you can bring back your messages, media, and app data without losing a thing. This section explains step by step how to recover chats, restore messages, and keep old chats after reinstalling.

Detecting the Backup File Location

Before you restore, you need to locate your backup file. Without it, the app won’t find your chat database or media files.

1. Check Local Backup Folder 

Most users save backups in the GBWhatsApp folder inside internal storage or an SD card. Use a file manager to open the storage path → /GBWhatsApp/Databases/.

2. Check Cloud Backup Status

If you enable cloud backup, your chats may be stored in Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, or Mega.

3. Verify File Integrity

Restores can fail if the backup file is corrupted.

Step-by-Step Restore Process for Local and Cloud Backups

Now let’s go through the actual restore wizard. Whether your backup is local or on the cloud, follow these steps.

1. Restore from Local Backup 

2. Restore from Cloud Backup 

3. Verify Restored Chats and Media 

After the restore:

Dealing with Partial or Failed Restores

Sometimes restores don’t work perfectly. You may see error codes (101, 404, 500) or find incomplete chats. Here’s how to fix them.

1. Identify Missing Messages or Media

2. Retry Restore Process 

3. Contact Support or Use Recovery Tools

If nothing works, try recovery tools like Dr.Fone, Tenorshare UltData, or other data recovery apps.

How to Restore GB WhatsApp Chats on a New Device

Switching to a new phone doesn’t mean losing your old GB WhatsApp chats. With the right steps, you can migrate backups safely, keep your chat database intact, and ensure all your photos, videos, and voice notes are transferred without issues.

Whether you’re moving from Android to Android, upgrading to the latest iPhone 14/15, or just reinstalling on the same SIM card, here’s the complete guide to restore your data.

Migrating Backups Safely Without Losing Media

When you move to a new device, the biggest worry is losing media files like images, audio messages, stickers, and documents. By following a secure migration process, you can transfer backups without corruption.

1. Transfer Local Backup Files

If you saved your msgstore.db.crypt12 file in internal storage, you can move it with an SD card, USB cable, or PC/laptop.

2. Sync Cloud Backup to New Device

If you linked Google Drive or other cloud services like Dropbox, OneDrive, or Mega, restoring is much easier.

3. Verify Media Transfer

Using Third-Party Tools 

Sometimes, the in-app restore wizard fails, especially when migrating between Android and iOS. In such cases, you can use trusted third-party tools.

1. Recommended Tools for GB WhatsApp

Some popular and safe apps include:

These are cross-platform and work with Android 11/12/13 and iOS 17. With ratings above 4.5/5 and 1M+ downloads, they’re reliable choices.

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Use Tools

3. Security Precautions

Be careful with fake APKs or pirated software. Risks include malware, spyware, phishing, and ransomware.

Tips to stay safe:

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Switching Devices

Most restore failures happen due to small mistakes. Let’s fix them:

1. Using Correct Backup Version

2. Avoiding Overwriting Existing Chats

Never allow restore to overwrite duplicate chats unless necessary.

3. Confirm Successful Restore Before Deleting Old Backup

Before deleting the old backup file:

Managing Multiple Backups and Version Conflicts

How to Maintain Multiple Backup Versions

If you use GB WhatsApp often, you may want to keep more than one backup version. This helps when the latest msgstore.db.crypt12 file is corrupted or a new APK version doesn’t support your old chats.

Save backups in the GBWhatsApp Databases folder.

1. Use different file naming conventions (e.g., “backup_2024”, “backup_2025”).
2. Store at least one daily, weekly, and monthly backup.
3. Keep copies in both local storage (SD card, internal memory) and cloud storage like Google Drive.

This way, you’ll always have an incremental backup or even a differential backup to fall back on.

Resolving Conflicts Between Old and New Backups

Sometimes restoring fails because of a backup conflict. For example:

Solution:

1. Always check your GB WhatsApp version before restoring.
2. Match the backup file with the same app build.
3. If corruption occurs, rename or restore from an older backup.
4. Use third-party recovery tools only as a last resort.

Advanced Tips to Secure Your GB WhatsApp Backups

Encrypting Backup Files Manually

GB WhatsApp already uses .crypt12 encryption, but you can add another layer:

This ensures even if someone gets your backup file, they can’t read it without the decryption key.

Setting Up Backup Schedules Without Affecting Performance

Heavy auto-backups can drain the battery and use RAM. To optimize:

This avoids performance issues like phone slowdowns or overheating.

Regular Verification of Backup Integrity

Many users ignore this step. Always:

This prevents surprises when you urgently need your data.

Common Errors During Backup & Restore and How to Fix Them

Backup Not Detected

Problem: No backup found or hidden in system folders.

Fix:

Insufficient Storage Errors

Problem: Phone shows insufficient space when restoring.

Fix:

GB WhatsApp Crashes During Restore

Problem: App keeps crashing or enters restore loop.

Fix:

Media Files Missing After Restoration

Problem: Chats appear but photos, videos, or voice notes are missing.

Fix:

Frequently Asked Questions