Backup/restore data into external storage on a Galaxy

Last Update date : Jul 25. 2022

With Samsung Cloud and PC, you can backup your data, such as images, contacts, messages, and applications into external storage (i.e. microSD card or USB memory external HDD) via Smart Switch. 

To connect a USB memory card or external storage, plug the USB connector (USB Type-C) to the USB power adaptor of the device, followed by USB memory/external HDD into the USB connector (USB Type-C).

Note:

  • When connecting an external HDD to a mobile device with an SD card inserted in it, data transfer will be via SD Card instead.
  • Device screenshots and menus may vary depending on the device model and software version.

Find out more about more options on how to back up your phone here: How to backup a Samsung Galaxy Device.

USB connector(USB Type-C) to the USB power adaptor
Backup data to external storage
1 Go to Settings.
2 Select Cloud and accounts in Settings screen.
3 Select Smart Switch in Cloud and accounts screen.
Select Smart Switch
4 In the Smart Switch screen, select More (3 vertical dots). In the dropdown list, select External storage transfer.
Select Smart Switch
5 Click on Backup in the External Storage Transfer screen.
Select Backup
6 Select contents and activate Backup.
Select contents and activate Backup
7 System is preparing to backup the data.
System is preparing to backup the data
8 Show backup status.
Show Backup status
Restore data from external storage
1 Go to Settings.
2 Select Cloud and accounts in Settings screen.
3 Select Smart Switch in Cloud and accounts screen.
Select Smart Switch
4 In the Smart Switch screen, select More (3 vertical dots). In the dropdown list, select External storage transfer.
Select Smart Switch
5 Click on Restore in the External Storage Transfer screen.
Select Restore
6 Select contents and activate Restore.
Select contents and activateRestore
7 System is preparing to restore the contents.
System is preparing to restore the data
8 Show Restore status.
Restore Status

If you're experiencing unusual behavior on Samsung mobiles, tablets, or wearables, you can send us an error report or ask us a question in the Samsung Members app. This allows us to take a closer look at what is happening. The data is anonymized and only held for the duration of the investigation. Find out more about how to send an error report here: How to use the Samsung Members app 

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