OneDrive Error Codes

How to Fix HTTP 401 Error in SMS Backup & Restore for OneDrive

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users are encountering an HTTP 401 unauthorized error when attempting to back up or restore data to Microsoft OneDrive using the SMS Backup & Restore application.

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to sync, back up, or restore SMS messages to a OneDrive account via the SMS Backup & Restore app.
Observed behavior: The application fails to connect to the cloud storage and displays an HTTP 401 error code, indicating an unauthenticated or unauthorized session.

Before you start

Ensure your device is connected to a stable internet network and have your Microsoft account login credentials ready before proceeding with the re-authentication steps.

Solution 1Recommended

Unlink and Relink Your OneDrive Account

Refreshing the connection by unlinking and relinking your Microsoft account is the most effective way to resolve unauthorized token errors.

Error code 401 usually means the app's authorization token has expired or is mismatched. Relinking the account requests a fresh authentication token from Microsoft's servers.

Verify your OneDrive login

Open the official OneDrive app on your device and ensure you are actively signed in with the correct Microsoft account.

Open SMS Backup & Restore settings

Launch the SMS Backup & Restore application and navigate to the backup configuration menu.

Unlink the current account

Locate the OneDrive integration option and tap 'Log out' or 'Unlink' to disconnect the currently saved Microsoft account.

Relink and authorize

Tap 'Log in' next to OneDrive again, enter your Microsoft account credentials, and tap 'Allow' or 'Accept' when prompted to grant the app permission to access your OneDrive files.

Account Consistency: Using the exact same Microsoft account across both the OneDrive app and the SMS Backup app ensures smooth authentication.

Solution 2

Update Both Applications to the Latest Version

Updating your apps resolves known bugs and ensures compliance with Microsoft's latest security protocols.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does HTTP 401 mean in SMS Backup & Restore?

The HTTP 401 error stands for 'Unauthorized Access.' In this context, it means the application failed to authenticate with Microsoft OneDrive, typically because your login session expired, the password changed, or the app lacks the proper permissions.

Why does SMS Backup & Restore require access to my OneDrive?

The application needs specific permissions to read and write files within your OneDrive storage. This allows it to safely upload your new backup files and locate existing ones when you need to restore your messages.

Will updating the app delete my existing SMS backups?

No. Updating SMS Backup & Restore or the OneDrive app through the official app store simply replaces the software files and fixes bugs. Your local data, settings, and cloud backups remain perfectly safe.

Can I use a different cloud service if OneDrive continues to fail?

Yes. If OneDrive integration remains problematic, you can open the backup settings within SMS Backup & Restore and choose alternative cloud storage solutions like Google Drive or Dropbox.

Microsoft Office Error Codes