Restore files during synchronization

Overview

The CrashPlan app regularly performs a synchronizing operation to verify the accuracy of the information it stores about your file selection with the information stored at the backup destination. 

During synchronization, you cannot back up or restore from the CrashPlan cloud. However, if you need to restore a file while the CrashPlan app is synchronizing (for example, right after replacing a device), this article provides solutions.

Considerations

The amount of time needed for synchronization varies depending on your internet connection, computer speed, and the size and type of files in your backup file selection. Once the synchronization finishes, backups and restores resume.

Recommended solution

If you back up to multiple destinations, try to restore from a non-CrashPlan cloud destination such as an external hard drive first. If that is not possible, try the alternative solution below.

Alternative solution

If you cannot wait for synchronizing to finish and you do not back up to multiple destinations, follow the steps below. Note that the CrashPlan app will still need to complete the synchronization process once you complete these steps.  

1. Assign the computer a new computer identity.
2. Sign in to the CrashPlan app.
3. Open CrashPlan CrashPlan Commands by entering the keyboard shortcut for your operating system:
   • Windows: Ctrl+shift+C
   • Mac: Option+Command+C
   • Linux: Ctrl+Shift+C
4. Enter: guid new
5. Press Enter.
   You are signed out of the CrashPlan app.
6. Sign back in to the CrashPlan app.
   The replace device wizard opens.
7. Select Add new device.
8. Restore your files for the new device.
9. Open the replace device wizard from the menu bar:
   • Mac: Select File > Replace device.
   • Windows and Linux: Select Tools > Replace device.
     The replace device wizard opens.
10. Select Replace Existing to replace your previous computer and resume your original backup.