Fixed: Windows Server Backup stuck at "Reading data" state

Windows Server has many great features, just like its desktop counterpart. But what happens when it doesn't behave?

Windows Server comes with a myriad of fascinating and practical features. It enables administrators to keep everything in order and running smoothly. However, there are times when people encounter issues, prompting them to seek answers online.

One of those is when the Windows Server Backup gets stuck while reading data. This issue has been bothering many, and there are several solutions to it. So, let's get right to it.

Windows Server Backup is a toolset in Windows Server that allows users or administrators to perform basic backup tasks. This includes setting up backups and related settings, such as storage location and backup frequency.

This feature allows users to schedule automatic backups at specific times or perform them manually whenever needed. However, issues may arise, and Windows Server Backup might get stuck on the "Reading data" status.

This annoying issue not only wastes your time but can also lead to more headaches, such as lost work, and even compromised backups. Today, we'll look at some solutions, so let's jump right in.

Possible causes for Windows Server Backup (WSB) getting stuck on "Reading data"

There can be many reasons why Windows Server Backup (WSB) isn't working as it should. Sometimes, the issue might be caused by a specific or minor problem. Other times, it could be due to secondary hardware issues or major software problems.

In either case, the issue could stem from a problem with the operating system itself or its malfunctioning. But that does not mean that it is unsolvable. Hence, the first step is to diagnose or identify the likely causes, which can be numerous, including:

• Poor internet connection
• Limited storage space
• Issues with Microsoft's servers
• Incorrect setup or configuration

There are some special cases that aren't caused by these issues but may be due to hardware problems, but these are the main reasons why your Windows server might be underperforming.

Sometimes, other services fail to work properly, causing data to fail to download or upload correctly. That's why the Windows Server Backup is not working. Therefore, this could be another reason why your backup gets stuck while reading data.

< a id="2" name="2">4 Ways to Fix Windows Server Backup Stuck on "Reading Data"

To address the issue of Windows Server Backup getting stuck while reading data, you can try several approaches. In this section, we will discuss four simple methods that can help you easily resolve the problem. So, the first solution is quite straightforward. You need to:

• Solution 1: Run Backup as Administrator
• Solution 2: Restart Windows Server Backup
• Solution 3: Disable SQL Server VSS Writer Service
• Solution 4: Restart Your Server

Solution 1: Run the backup as an administrator

The first solution is to run the backup as an administrator. Here, you would attempt to run the same backup operation, but with administrative privileges. So, like this:

This should resolve any potential issues, as the administrator permissions will force through any problems. Another viable method is to use the Command Prompt with administrator privileges. So, simply copy and paste the following line:

"wbadmin start backup [-backupTarget:"

This command ensures that your backup process proceeds smoothly without any issues or interruptions.

Solution 2: Restart Windows Server Backup

Here, you need to restart it by closing and then opening Windows Server Backup. So, if your settings get stuck, just close it and start again with the steps mentioned above. Therefore, you need to restart Windows Server Backup in Administrative mode.

Then you'll need to restart several other key services, such as:

• Windows Search
• Volume Shadow Copy Service
• COM+ System Application service

Restarting the backup and these services should help get your backups running again. Additionally, if you don't want to use it at all, you can choose to stop Windows Server Backup.

Resolution 3: Disable the SQL Server VSS Writer Service

Another known solution is to disable the SQL Server VSS Writer Service. Disabling this particular service will stop the lag and let your backups proceed smoothly. Therefore, look for this feature in your Windows server and disable it before restarting your backup.

Solution 4: Restart the Server

This is a last resort, as it requires you to turn off all devices and then back on again. This should not be a simple reboot, as the power to the computer/server must be cut. To do this:

Step 1: Shut down the server

Step 3: Reinsert

Step 4: Open it again.

Step 5: Re-enable backup

Step 6: Completion

This will cause the server to restart completely, stopping any potential problems in their tracks.

How to Smoothly Backup Your Windows Server

To avoid backup issues, it's a good idea to take a different approach. Windows Server Backup is well-known for its bugs and problems, so we recommend using a dedicated tool to handle the job.

One of the options is Todo Backup Enterprise. This great business backup software is excellent for server backup, and it will allow you to create backups easily and without any of the issues we've discussed today.

So why would you use this tool instead of the built-in options? Here are a few (of many) reasons:

• Simplify backup procedures
• Boost recovery efficiency
• Minimize backup and recovery times, saving you hours
• Savvy solution for both Windows PCs and servers, accessible to all users
• Centralized backup location for easy recovery from any device
• Recover images on unfamiliar or newer hardware
• Rapidly clone hard drives for backup purposes
• Set up automatic backups for Windows Server
• Offer a free trial version

As you can see, there are more than enough reasons for anyone to think about it. This is why any business or server-related backup solution needs this tool to ensure smooth backups and avoid all the hassle that comes with using Windows Server's built-in or default options. This tool will surely serve as an important assistant in Windows Server Backup and Recovery, as you can read in our guide.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to easily back up your disk using the Todo Backup Enterprise tool:

Step 1: Launch Todo Backup Enterprise and click "Create Task" to set up a new backup.

Click “Create new task” to set up a backup.

Step 2. Choose “Disks/Volumes” as the destination at the top. Then select the disk you want to back up.

Select the system to back up

Step 3: Then click on "Browse" and choose the location where you want to save your backup file.

Select Destination Place

4. Click on Schedule: Off to set up a backup schedule. Here you will see Schedule, Backup Cleanup, and Advanced Settings. Under Schedule, click on New.

Then set the backup frequency according to your needs.

5. Click the "Backup Options" button in the bottom-left corner of the window.

Here, you can change the settings to your liking, such as performance, encryption, email notifications, and other options. When you're done, click “Save” to return to the main screen.

Step 6: Once you've set everything up, click "Start Backup" to begin the backup process.

Click “Start Backup” to begin the system backup.

Bottom line

These could be the reasons why your backup is stuck and the solutions you can try. But you need to keep in mind that fixing the Windows Server Backup getting stuck while reading data is not as easy as it seems. Thus, it's recommended that you try a better approach.

In this case, a professional tool like Todo Backup Enterprise can be very helpful. Not only because of its powerful features, but also due to the ease of use it provides over default backup options and the peace of mind that comes with it.

Frequently Asked Questions about Windows Server Backup

If you have other questions, check out our FAQ, which might have the answer you're looking for.

1. How do I force a stop of Windows Server Backup?

First, you need to access the dashboard. There, you can find your server listed under the "Devices" section. Next, click on the "Stop Server Backup" option, and confirm when prompted.

2. How can I speed up Windows Server Backup?

First, make sure you have a stable internet connection. Often, network issues are the culprit behind slow backups, especially when you're backing up to the cloud or another NAS server. If the network isn't the issue, ensure the device you're backing up is properly connected.

Then, restart the backup using the methods mentioned in this article to speed it up. Alternatively, you can use third-party tools like Todo Backup Enterprise for faster backups and restoration.

How do I restart the Windows Backup service?

Press ⊞ Win+R to open the Command Prompt on your Windows Server, then type `CMD` and hit ↵ Enter. Type `net restart "backup service controller"` and press ↵ Enter. This will restart your backup service from scratch.