Backup how to recover data. Create a TWRP backup and restore Android (TWRP backup)

To quickly recover lost data on a smartphone, you need to know what a backup is and how to create it on Android.

With it, you will quickly get back all deleted files, restore game and program settings, as well as IMEI, identification numbers, passwords and all other information contained on the device.

Definition

Backup Is an archived backup of your phone or computer files. A backup can be created in any operating system. Its purpose is to save all user data and configure the system at the time of creating the archive.

After a factory reset or hard system restore using a backup, you can quickly restore all lost data and not waste time reinstalling programs and setting up the OS.

A copy of the data is created using special programs. Most popular utilities:

  • Titanium Backup;
  • Super Backup;
  • Nandroid Manager;
  • Helium and others;
  • SP FlashTools.

Types of backups inAndroid

In Android OS, users can create a backup copy of the entire system or its individual components:

  • Copy SMS -Messages and contact list ;
  • Backup of the entire system, taking into account security settings (saving all lock passwords);
  • Back up any selected files ;
  • Backup photos and videos ;
  • Copy of Google account information ;
  • Backup for IMEI .

Why is it important to create a backup periodically?

Backing up allows you to get rid of the problems associated with the sudden loss of data on your smartphone. Periodic backup will save all operating system settings, as well as messages and multimedia files.

In case of errors that require you to reset the phone settings, you can easily get back all deleted information... In the Android OS, a backup can be created using the built-in system options or use special programs.

When should you make a backup?

1. Before updating the firmware ... It doesn't matter if you download a new version of Android "over the air" or install updates manually, create a copy of the installed OS. We recommend moving all photos, videos and music to a memory card or uploading this data to the cloud storage;

2. Before factory reset. Over time, smartphone users can observe a decrease in the performance of their gadget. This is due to the load of RAM, viruses. The easiest way to restore devices is to factory reset the OS. Before that, it is better to create a backup of the phone book and SMS, so as not to lose important data;

3. To reset the lock password. If you have set a password, pattern or pin code and have forgotten it, you can reset it without losing data by using a backup. The only requirement is that an archive with a copy of the data must be created before the password is set.

Also, the periodic creation of a backup of the phone book will allow you to quickly return lost numbers in the event of a SIM card error or after clearing the memory card.

What does it take to create a copy?

To create a backup in the Android OS in the standard way, you will need:

  • Superuser rights - ROOT must be active on the smartphone at the time the copy is generated;
  • Copy storage media - it can be a built-in memory card, any cloud storage or your computer's memory;
  • Backup software ... Software that works with backups with active ROOT rights allows you to create a copy of all data in the operating system - from contacts to arbitrary files and settings of each program.

Another way to create a backup Is the use of third-party programs that do not require superuser rights. They allow you to archive only basic OS data. For example, a phone book, messages, accounts linked to the OS. Creating and restoring a copy can be carried out using one program, which must be installed on a smartphone.

Backup programs

After flashing your gadget, you get an absolutely "clean" software shell. You will not be able to return any programs, accounts and settings of their previous version of the OS unless you took care of creating a backup copy in advance.

Many users prefer to install applications from scratch. However, it is much easier to use a backup and return all application settings using one archive. Restoring previous settings does not affect the operation of the OS in any way, does not provoke bugs and errors.

The current backup of programs will be for those applications that are not in the official Play Market .

Titanium Backup and Helium- these are the two most popular programs for working with backup copies of applications in the Android OS of any version. You will need superuser rights to start working with each of these utilities.

To create a backup of one installed program or several types of software at once, use the instructions for one of the following utilities.

Titanium Backup

The utility has over 5 million official downloads in the Play Market. The application allows not only restoring operating system data, but also works with the software installed by the manufacturer, removes components and settings that a regular user cannot delete using the standard settings window.

Main features of Titanium Backup:

  • Configuring backup according to a specific schedule;
  • Moving programs between internal and external memory without having to close the application;
  • Quick scan for a new firmware version;
  • Installing the firmware;
  • Storing the history of calls and text messages of the cellular operator;
  • Backup of browser bookmarks;
  • Backup of the access point of the router;
  • Synchronization of data with cloud services DropBox, OneDrive, Google Drive;
  • Assigning a system status to any program (option configurable by the user);
  • Creating an archive with a backup, which can be re-installed on a smartphone using the console;
  • Synchronization of settings and application data between multiple gadgets.

Convenient transfer of settings from one gadget to another is the most useful feature of Titanium Backup. If it happens that your smartphone is broken, or you lost it, thanks to the backup, you can easily restore all contacts and messages in popular instant messengers and transfer information to another device.

You don't need an old SIM card to transfer data. All you need is a second gadget, a backup archive and a Titanium Backup utility. All backups created in the program are automatically synced with one of your cloud storages:

  • Go to the utility window Titanium Backup;
  • In the list of programs installed on the smartphone, select the desired messenger or other application to back up its settings. In our case, we will archive all numbers and messages from Whatsapp;
  • Click on the name of the program, holding it for a few seconds. In the pop-up window, click on the field "Save";
  • Next, select your cloud storage, to which the archive with software settings will be sent.

To move program data to a second gadget or restore settings after a factory reset, reinstall the Whatsapp messenger and Titanium Backup. Open the recovery tool and sync the utility with the cloud.

In the list of all programs installed on the smartphone, select the desired messenger, click on it and in the options menu click on "Restore". Titanium Backup will automatically put the necessary backup in the cloud and return all lost files to programs. You will be able to use all contacts again and access your lost chats.

Similarly, you can transfer this any other program to a second gadget. Most often, the application backup function is useful for transferring messenger data, saving progress in games.

Helium

Helium Is another simple and useful utility for quick device recovery. The software works on all devices, regardless of the presence of superuser rights. The only requirement is cloud sync. The utility does not save a backup to a memory card or external drive.

Helium features:

1. Synchronization of applications on multiple devices;

2. System backup;

3. Convenient file explorer;

4. Removing programs and rolling back their updates.

To back up the data of the installed program, follow the instructions:

  • Open the Helium app. The file explorer Carbon will appear in the main window of the utility - this is a built-in service for viewing a list of all installed applications. Click on the required program and in the action menu select "Backup";
  • Wait until the copy is complete. The created archive will be sent to the cloud;

To recover information from a copy using Helium, open the utility on another device. In the settings, activate the item "Synchronization with the cloud". Then, in the main program window, go to the "Recovery and Synchronization" tab.

Select the program whose data you want to return and click on "Restore".

To create any other type of backup, go to the "Overview" tab and select one of the backup options.

Save IMEI

IMEI Is the international numeric identifier for your device. Using this set of numbers, you can find out the manufacturer of the gadget, its model and status. Phones and tablets without IMEI are considered stolen and unofficially prohibited for use in the CIS.

As a result of factory reset or software errors, the IMEI may be lost. However, you can restore it using a backup copy.

Lost IMEI Signs:

  • After flashing or resetting to factory settings, there are communication problems (cellular, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi);
  • Complete lack of connection with GPS;
  • The phone does not see any SIM card.

The identifier can be restored only with superuser rights. To return the IMEI, you will need to install the Android Terminal Emulator console emulator utility (if the phone does not see the network, download the installation APK to your computer, and then transfer the file to the phone using a USB connection).

Follow the instructions:

  • First, we need to find out the EFS code. To do this, enter the command mount and press Enter to execute it;
  • A text will appear in the console window, in which you should find the EFS command, spelled out with a slash. The text identifier in front of the command is the code we need. Code search example:
  • Write down the found code on a piece of paper and reload the application. After restarting the emulator, enter the command to restore IMEI (each of the lines must be entered via Enter). XXXXX is the found EFS code;
  • To save the IMEI settings, without exiting the program, enter the following lines:

After successfully completing all the commands, exit the emulator window, restart your smartphone and check the operation of the cellular network, geolocation and Internet connection. Everything should work fine. If desired, you can check for the presence of IMEI using the engineering menu.

Backup photos and videos

As a result of theft of a smartphone or a factory reset, the most frustrating thing is the loss of photos, videos, music and other personal data. All programs can be re-installed, but it is almost impossible to return personal information without premature preparation.

Even if you are sure that nothing will happen to your gadget, we recommend that you configure at least one of the methods described below for saving your multimedia data.

Using the Google+ app

The standard Google application is preinstalled on all Android devices. The goal of Google+ is to bring all Google services together and sync into one account. If your device has Google Drive cloud storage and the Google+ app installed, this does not mean that file synchronization is set up.

The fact is that in the mobile version of Google Drive, you cannot configure the synchronization of a specific folder. Users can only activate the automatic sending of all photos taken with the camera of the gadget through the settings of the smartphone.

Follow the instructions to sync any folder on your smartphone with One Drive and automatically send copies of files to the cloud:

1. Install the FolderSync app on your smartphone or update it to a new version if the utility is already on your smartphone. The utility allows you to select any folder in the smartphone's memory and configure its synchronization with the cloud (link to the Play Market page :);

2. Further, for devices with OS Android0 and higher, it is not necessary to allow access to all folders and files on the smartphone. To do this, simply open the FolderSync program right after the first installation and press the button in the pop-up window "Allow";

3. To configure automatic backup of photos, videos and other files in the main FolderSync window, click the button "Create New Sync";

4. Then the built-in helper window will open. It is necessary to enter a name for the created pair “folder-cloud storage”;

6. In the horse that appears, select the cloud service OneDrive or another site, with which you want to set up the binding;

8. To confirm the action and save the settings, click on "Authenticate Account";

All user data is added to the store. Whatever happens to your phone, you can always get your photos back using any computer or browser.

At the stage of choosing a directory, you will be prompted configure one of the following options for connecting to the cloud storage:

  • Local folder connection(select if data for backup will be created and located only on your smartphone);
  • Synchronization with a remote folder(if you want to create a backup for a folder on your computer);
  • Hybrid option(to create a backup of this smartphone and other remote gadgets).

In the connection settings, you can select the schedule according to which the synchronization will take place. We recommend that you send data to the cloud every day. In case of an error or phone breakdown, all important files will have a backup.

other methods

In addition to Google Drive storage, you can also choose any of the services presented:

  • Dropbox - the world's most popular cloud storage. Its peculiarity lies in the fact that the program can automatically create a backup of the phone's photos and immediately delete them, freeing up memory. You can access the folder with all the images at any time from all devices. All you need is an internet connection;
  • MEGA - a cloud that provides 50 GB of free virtual disk space. The user can set up synchronization with any device, download client programs for PC and smartphone, control access to folders and files;

    • Mail . ru cloud - after registration, you will have 100 GB available for free. Manage simple file syncing and view in any browser.

All these cloud storages have client applications in the Google Play store and the ability to synchronize phone data with the server through the usual program settings.

Create a backup of any files

In addition to the options described above for creating a backup of photos, music, videos, users can download such programs to their smartphone for work with backup copies of documents of any format:

  • DataSync;
  • DropSync.

DataSync

The application works by analogy with the FolderSync discussed above and allows you to create a backup of any information that is stored in the internal or external memory of the device (except for installed programs and system settings).

Also, DataSync allows you to configure sending a backup from one device to another via a Bluetooth connection, which is convenient when you need to save important information, but there is no Internet connection.

Thanks to the two-way sync option, the two gadgets will be able to exchange game data. Thus, all missions and progress will be saved on both devices at once.

DropSync

DropSync Is another popular utility for sending backups. Its feature is additional monitoring of the phone's performance. If the smartphone has a low battery, the application will not sync data, so as not to decrease the device's operating time.

Users can choose the type of synchronization:

(after synchronization, the data remains in the smartphone's memory);(automatic deletion of information from the phone's memory to free up space. Users can access files using the cloud storage attached to the program);
  • Download only- getting a backup from the cloud and adding its contents to the smartphone's memory.

    • Backup for all data and settings

    NAND (or Nandroid Backup) Is a concept that is used in the Android OS to refer to a full backup of the firmware installed on a smartphone, including all system data and its settings. The backup also includes all installed programs.

    The full backup function is supported by the TWRP or CWM type recovery menu. TWRP is an advanced recovery menu that is installed on the phone by the user himself, and CWM is an alternative recovery menu.

    Firmware with one of two types of recovery is installed in the system memory section of the smartphone, after which you can create a backup of absolutely all data. After recovery, you will be able to use all your lost programs, contacts and files again.

    Also, a backup created in CWM or TWRP can be installed on any other Android device if it supports the created firmware version. Nandroid Backup Online

    Nandroid Manager

    To create a complete backup of the device's software shell, you need to download and install the Nandroid Manager program

    The utility allows you to create a quick standard (copying all data) or custom system backup (the user chooses what to save) without going into the recovery menu. In the application settings, you can select the following backup options:

    • Backup name- contains a unique name, date, code and name of the firmware;
    • Creation mode- normal (full), custom selection of memory partitions;
    • Copy type- CWM or TWRP. Also, the choice of compression is possible to save disk space;
    • The place where the backup will be stored... You can add it to your phone memory, download it to your PC, or upload it to the cloud;
    • Exclusion from backup content temporary files, bugs, erroneous system settings, cache and found viruses.

    The Nandroid Manager utility synchronizes the created backup archive with the cloud, FTP server. Users have access to the function of creating a schedule for updating the backup. To save battery power, we advise you to configure the unloading of a new version of the backup only during the period when the gadget is being charged.

    Notice! Unloading a full backup of the operating system viaNandroid Managermay affect the performance of the gadget.

    Backup from ADB

    ADB is a debugging bridge for Android OS. In simple words, using ADB, you can create a backup of the system by connecting your smartphone to your computer. ADB is a console application in which the user enters the system programs that run on the phone.

    ADB Features:

    • Viewing the content and system settings of connected gadgets;
    • Client-server interaction between smartphone and PC;
    • Viewing logs;
    • Removing or clearing the DATA system partition;
    • Fast copying of files of any format between devices;
    • Firmware execution;
    • Application of control scripts;
    • Removing superuser rights;
    • Managing network connection parameters.

    To get started, download and install the ADB Run utility on your computer.

    Run the folder that appeared on the computer desktop as a result of installing ADB Run. Connect the phone to the PC and in the ADB Run program folder create a text document devices.cmd (the file must be an object of a standard notepad or any other text editor. Immediately after creation, rename the TXT format to CMD).

    Open devices.cmd and write in the file the following commands:

    • echo off
    • adb devices
    • pause

    After the text about the successful completion of the operation appears, enter a new command to create a backup of the current state of the firmware:

    adb create backup [- l ] [- r ] < name > , where name is the name of the archive with the firmware copy.

    The backup will be saved to the root folder of the ADB Run utility on your computer. You can move it to any other folder or cloud.

    Super Backup app - create a copy without ROOT

    To create a backup copy of smartphone data, you can use third-party programs that, without superuser rights, are able to set up a backup of the selected information.

    Super backup Is one such application. Its main feature is its wide functionality.

    The user can create copies of the following types of information:

    1Applications;

    3Call log;

    4Calendar;

    5 Bookmarks;

    6 Phonebook contacts.

    If you want to back up applications or games on Android, it is best to use the program, but if you need to back up the entire system, it is easier to install the universal ROM Manager application. It has many features that will come in handy when flashing your device.

    ROM Manager can also be used to flash your smartphone or tablet. How to do this is described in detail on our website. For the application to work, you need root rights, which can be obtained using programs, or.

    So, install ROM Manager from Google Play, open the app and follow the instructions in the instructions:

    1. The first step is to install ClockWorkMod (modified Recovery). To do this, select the "Recovery Setup" item in the main menu of the program. It may also be called "Install ClockWorkMod".

    3. In the menu that appears, click on "Install ClockWorkMod".

    4. ROM Manager will require root access, after which the ClockWorkMod installation process will begin.

    5. Now you can proceed to create an Android backup. To do this, select "Save current ROM" in the main menu of the program.

    6. In the window that appears, you can change the name of the backup. At the end click "OK".

    7. After that, your device will go to ClockWorkMod Recovery and create a backup. This process can take a long time, so don't worry.

    8. If you want to restore the system, open "Backups", select the saved backup and in the next window click "Restore".

    All in all, ROM Manager is a truly versatile application. With it, you can install CWM, create a backup of the system and restore it if necessary, as well as flash your Android smartphone or tablet.

    Before any manipulation of the Android device, you must make a mandatory backup. The resulting copy can help you out if you need to restore data when flashing or losing your phone. So, let's find out how to make a backup on Android correctly and not create difficulties for yourself with restoring the system in the future.

    General information

    Backing up the Android system is a set of necessary elements of the information block of a smartphone. During the backup, telephone information such as:

    • Programs, their parameters;
    • Gallery with pictures and media files;
    • Email content;
    • Contact details received by SMS and MMS.

    In addition to the above data and programs, information about the operating system is also saved: all settings, access points, languages, and so on.

    Thus, a backup is a special archive, the file of which can be placed anywhere. It is convenient to make a backup of Android to a flash drive or hard drive. In addition, today it is popular to use cloud storage.

    Making a backup using a computer

    Making a backup from a PC is quite easy and even a beginner can do it. In order to create a copy, you need to install the My Phone Explorer program on your personal computer - a convenient, multifunctional, and most importantly, Russified add-on. An important point: before starting copying, install the mobile version of the My Phone Explorer Client application on your phone, otherwise you will not be able to connect to the computer later.

    Now we will figure out how to make a backup of Android via a computer, quickly and efficiently:

    1. Connect your smartphone to your computer using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or USB cable services.
    2. We are waiting for the subsequent data synchronization and carefully examine the contents of the connected gadget.
    3. In order to make a copy to your computer, you need to go to the "Miscellaneous" tab and click the "Create a backup copy" command.
    4. The program will then ask which data you want to save via the computer. Select the lines you want and check the boxes on them.

    Done, in a few minutes a file-archive of data of your Android device will appear on your PC.

    How is a standard copy of data done?

    Remember: no matter how proven and effective a backup system is, something can always go wrong. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you store especially important and necessary materials (photos, music, documents, videos, contacts, etc.) on removable media, hard drive or cloud storage. So you will definitely be sure that you will not lose them at the most inopportune moment.

    In addition, many probably know that all your contacts and email are linked to your Google account. So in case of data loss on your phone and an unsuccessful backup, you can still return some of the information for which the Gmail service is responsible.

    We perform a backup using the Titanium Backup application

    This program allows you to make high-quality system copies, but you need to use it. The only drawback of using this application is that it saves everything except the smartphone's firmware itself.

    The add-on menu is simple and intuitive. It has different tabs: “Overview”, which includes a description of the program's capabilities, “Backups” with information about the software, and “Schedules”, which allows you to set the time when the program will automatically create copies of data.

    We are interested in the most important section - "Batch Actions". We will work with him.

    Detailed instructions for creating a copy of the data:

    • Download the app from the Play Store or other resources. Be careful and download applications only from trusted sources.
    • Run the program only as a superuser.
    • Click on the leaf-shaped button with a check mark in the upper right corner of the display. In the window that opens, select the items that you want to have in the final archive.
    • Click "Start".

    Ready. You now have a complete copy of the contents of your phone.

    How to backup firmware using ROM Manager

    One of the most popular applications for root users is the well-known ROM Manager program. Use the search bar in the Play Store, find and install the application on your phone or tablet.

    Your actions during the backup should be as follows:

    1. Charge your device to the highest possible level. This will save you trouble during copying and subsequent repairs.
    2. Click on the application icon and launch it.
    3. In the menu that opens, select the "Install ClockworkMod" item.
    4. Install the add-on, while giving the superuser rights to the ROM Manager.
    5. Then go back to the menu, where select the command to save the current ROM.
    6. After these actions, a window will appear in which you can change the name of the archive to the desired one.
    7. Click the "Ok" button.

    The backup process will take about 10 minutes and you will have a reliable safety net in case of an unfortunate accident. You can restore the system using the same program.

    We perform a backup of the Android firmware without root rights

    As a rule, to create a backup using special applications, you may need root rights. If it so happens that your phone is included in the list of gadgets, where root-rights cannot be obtained, the standard backup method through the built-in utility - recovery is the best way for you.

    Thus, most modern smartphones and tablets come out with a tool for copying the system already provided by the manufacturer. In order to do it, you don't even need to get root access for your device.

    How to backup Android through recovery, steps:

    1. First of all, be sure to charge your smartphone so that its charge level reaches 60% or more. If this is not done, the chances are high that the mobile device will turn off during the backup process and will not work without major repairs.
    2. The data storage on the memory card must have at least 500 MB of free space.
    3. Turn off your mobile device.
    4. Hold down the power button and volume button at the same time.
    5. There are two possible options: your phone will immediately go into service mode, or a green robot will appear on the screen. In the second case, hold down the power button and the volume down button with a short press.
    6. Use the volume rocker to scroll to the backup and restore command.
    7. Activate the process with one short press of the power button.
    8. In the next menu that opens, select the nandroid function, the backup item.
    9. The backup process usually takes about 10 minutes, and when completed, Backup complete appears.
    10. Your last action will be to select and confirm the reboot system now option.

    That's all. You have learned how to make a full system backup of your device. It remains only to be on the safe side and copy the file to a memory card or computer hard drive. You can find it on the memory card in the ClockworkMod section.

    Outcome

    So, we learned how to back up on devices with the Android operating system, what programs and applications can be used, how to apply the built-in tools. Be sure that by carefully studying the proposed material and following the instructions exactly, you will be able to make a copy of your device data and accurately save important information to you in unforeseen circumstances.

    Contacts, photos, progress in games - smartphones contain in their memory no less necessary information than hard drives of computers. With Android backup, you can prevent the loss of important data by storing it securely on Google servers or on your computer.

    Backing up to Google servers

    For the full operation of Android, you need a Google account - a Gmail mail account, with which you can log in to any service from a global corporation. Therefore, an Android backup to Google is the easiest way to save your content and settings. To back up your contacts, some app data, calendar, and disk, all you need to do is add a Google account in the settings and turn on sync.

    The marked data will be automatically saved to Google's servers. To restore them to your phone from a backup or transfer to another device, you just need to add an account and turn on synchronization.

    There is also a "Restore and reset" section in the phone settings. Here you need to enable backup, add a Google account for syncing and activate AutoRecover, which will help you get back a copy of the settings and data of some applications when you reinstall them.

    Important information is stored on Google servers, but, for example, the progress in the game cannot be transferred to another device using such synchronization. If you want to keep absolutely all data, then you need to know how to make a full backup.

    Backup via Recovery

    The standard Android recovery menu (Recovery) has extremely limited functionality - reset settings and install updates. But if you put an alternative Recovery on your phone (for example, Clockworkmod), you can perform a number of operations, including a backup. In fact, it will not be a backup copy of the data, but a full-fledged snapshot of the system.

    If you do not know what custom Recovery is and have never installed it, then it is recommended to skip to the next step of the guide, which describes how to create a backup using the Android PC backup program called Adb Run.

    If you have a custom Recovery, then making a snapshot of Android will not be difficult:

    1. Turn off the phone, go to Recovery (usually you need to hold down the "Volume +" and "Power" keys).
    2. Use the volume rocker and power button to open the "Backup and Restore" section.
    3. Select "Backup" to create a copy of the current state of the firmware.

    The backup will be saved to the memory card, in a folder named "CWM" or "TWRP", depending on which Recovery costs. Then there are two options:

    • Store the system image on a memory card.
    • Connect your phone to a computer and transfer the backup to your hard drive, so as not to clog the memory of your mobile device with a large amount of data.

    To perform Android data recovery after backup via Recovery, you need to make sure that the system image is in the appropriate folder on the SD card. Then you should go to Recovery again, open the "Backup and Restore" section and go to "Restore". A list of backups available for recovery will appear, from which you need to select the appropriate system snapshot.

    Using the Adb Run program

    If you want to back up Android to your computer, bypassing creating a backup in the Recovery menu and setting up a Google account, then use the free ADB RUN utility. For it to work, two conditions must be met:

    • USB debugging is enabled on the phone.
    • Mobile device drivers are installed on the computer.

    Drivers must be for the model you are connecting to your computer. If the conditions are met, you can proceed to creating a backup.


    The backup copy is stored on the computer, in order to return the data to the phone, you need to start Adb Run again and go to the "Backup" section. Here you should open the subsection "Adb Restore" and select the desired backup, after which the data will be copied back to the memory of the mobile device and to the SD card.

    The ways to create a backup on Android are not limited to the described tools. In the Play Market, you can find a dozen applications (with or without root) that allow you to save different amounts of data - Safe Backup, Super Backup, Titanium Backup. But before using the features of the application, be sure to read user reviews about its work - some programs are unstable.

    About five years ago, smartphones were exclusively owned by people who needed their functionality. Today, thanks to the development of the market for Android devices, almost everyone has these gadgets. The platform is quite well customizable and is developing rapidly - every year new major versions are released, and during the year manufacturers spoil users with updates to existing OS versions several times. Because of this trend, it is very important to know and be able to backup the firmware, so that in case of an unsuccessful update or in any other situation, you can make a quick rollback to a working system and not lose your data and information.
    In principle, there are quite a few ways to make a backup, but the most common and convenient ones are install custom recovery with this function. The most popular recovery alternatives are CWM (ClockworkMod recovery) and TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project). CWM- one of the very first such projects - it is quite minimalistic and is controlled exclusively by "iron buttons" - the volume buttons and the off key. Has only the most necessary functionality (including the backup function). TWRP a more advanced project. It has touch controls, as well as quite a few functions, the most useful of which is perhaps the built-in file manager that will allow you to copy your data from the internal memory to a flash drive if the phone refuses to boot.
    Let's take a quick look at each of these two alternative recovery, also consider how to make a backup using them, and show you another way that will allow you to do this right from a working system. We will also consider options for backing up only certain data (SMS, MMS, etc.)

    CWM


    ClockworkMod recovery is a modified unofficial recovery, which is produced for almost any more or less popular phone model. Installation is possible both instead of the standard recovery, and in parallel to it. It can be used to install unofficial firmware, create backups, reset user data and format partitions. You can also create separate sections on a memory card, etc.

    To make a backup of the file system of your Android device you need to go to CWM recovery (this procedure may differ slightly on different phones). Then you need to use the volume buttons to go to backup and restore and select either Backup (full backup of the entire system) or Advanced Backup- this will allow you to select the partitions that you want to save (most often these are data and boot), which will save you time and space on the flash drive.

    ClockworkMod recovery installation video

    TWRP


    TeamWin recovery is also a modified unofficial recovery, which is available for most Android device models. It allows you to perform much more actions with the device than standard recovery and than CWM, but is less common than the latter. TWRP will allow its users to:

    • install unofficial and official firmware;
    • install fixes and additions;
    • supports connection in ADB mode;
    • create backups of both the full firmware and its individual parts;
    • format partitions and create them.


    To make a backup using TeamWin recovery, you need to go into it, go to the Backup item and make a snapshot of the system, and you can choose which partitions of the system you need to save.

    EamWin recovery installation video

    Restore from backup

    To begin with, you need for greater safety, transfer the folder with the saved firmware to the hard disk of the computer, write it to an optical disk, upload it to the cloud, etc. In this case, even if you lose the flash drive, you will always have the opportunity to roll back the system to the old state. Then you will need to go into the recovery again and select the Restore item, and then mark the partitions that you want to restore (in the case of CWM, you will need to go to Advanced restore). After waiting for the operation to complete, restart the device.

    Another way to backup a partition

    If you are not satisfied with the previous methods, then there is one more, much less commonly used, but with its help you will definitely preserve all the connections and file rights. To implement it, you need a phone with root on which the terminal emulator is installed.
    First, open up a terminal emulator and type in it:
    su
    After that, a window for confirming root rights should appear (if you have not yet confirmed them before. Then type:
    dd if = / dev / block / "block number" of = / sdcard / system.img bs = 4096
    Where instead of "block number" you have to write the number of the section you want to save. To restore the partition, the resulting file will need to be flashed through the fastboot, like a regular img image.

    Saving SMS, MMS and other content

    If you want to "move" to a new system, then you only need to restore old messages and, possibly, some files. The files will remain on your memory card, so you shouldn't worry about this, but text messages will have to be saved manually. There are many free programs on Google Play, to save them - you just have to choose the most convenient one.
    It is also worth noting that Android has well-developed functions for saving application data and restoring the applications themselves, therefore, you do not need to worry about this operation - the system will do everything for you.

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