Data Backup Problems

How to Fix Word Always Create Backup Copy Option Turning Off

Algirdas Jasaitis Oct 12, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user's Microsoft Word 'Always Create Backup Copy' setting repeatedly turns itself off, preventing the creation of local document backups.

How to Fix Word Always Create Backup Copy Option Turning Off

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Saving Word documents with automatic local backups enabled.
Observed behavior: The 'Always Create Backup Copy' option becomes unchecked automatically, stopping the creation of backup copies for local documents after working normally for a period.

Before you start

Verify whether you are saving your documents to a local hard drive or a cloud-synchronized folder, as cloud storage solutions often override local backup configurations.

Solution 1Recommended

Save Documents Locally Instead of OneDrive

Cloud storage services like OneDrive often override Word's local backup settings. Saving locally ensures the backup feature remains enabled and works as intended.

Microsoft Word's native backup feature (.wbk files) is primarily designed for local files. When a document is saved to OneDrive or a SharePoint synced folder, Word relies on cloud version history instead, which can cause the local backup setting to turn off automatically.

Change Save Location

Open your Microsoft Word document, click on the 'File' tab in the top-left corner, and select 'Save As'. Choose a local directory on your PC (such as 'This PC' or your local 'Documents' folder) instead of a OneDrive location.

Access Word Options

Navigate to 'File' > 'Options' at the bottom of the left-hand menu to open the Word Options dialog box.

Re-enable Backup Setting

Click on 'Advanced' in the left pane and scroll down to the 'Save' section. Check the box for 'Always create backup copy' and click 'OK'.

Save Documents Locally Instead of OneDrive

Cloud Versioning: If you must use OneDrive, you do not need local backup copies. You can access previous versions by clicking the file name at the top of the Word window and selecting 'Version History'.

Solution 2

Disable Conflicting Word Add-ins

Third-party add-ins can sometimes modify Word settings in the background, causing the backup option to uncheck itself.

Solution 3

Use a Third-Party Backup Add-in

If Word's native backup feature remains unstable, you can use a dedicated macro or add-in designed to save documents in multiple locations simultaneously.

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Switch to WPS Office for Reliable Document Backups

If Microsoft Word's backup settings keep resetting due to cloud sync conflicts or add-in issues, try WPS Office. It is a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative that offers reliable local backup options without forced cloud synchronization.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download and install WPS Office for free.
2. Open Your Documents: Open your existing Word (.docx) documents directly in WPS Writer without losing any formatting.
3. Configure Backups: Navigate to Menu > Options > General and Save to easily manage your automatic backup and recovery preferences.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word (.docx) documents.Reliable Local Backup and Auto-Recovery settings that stay enabled.Free, lightweight, and features a familiar user interface for seamless migration.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the 'Always create backup copy' option only work for local files?

Microsoft Word's native backup feature is designed to create a '.wbk' file in the exact same local directory as the original document. Cloud storage services like OneDrive use their own version history systems, which actively manage file states and often override this local backup setting.

Where are Word backup copies saved?

When the 'Always create backup copy' setting is active, Word saves the backup file in the same folder as the original document. The backup file will have the prefix 'Backup of' followed by the original file name and a '.wbk' file extension.

How can I view older versions of a document saved on OneDrive?

If you save your document to OneDrive or SharePoint, you can use the built-in Version History feature instead of local backups. Click on the file name at the top center of the Word window and select 'Version History' to view and restore previous versions.

Can a Word update cause settings to reset?

Yes, occasionally Microsoft Office updates can reset user preferences to their defaults or introduce compatibility issues with existing add-ins. This can result in personalized settings, like the backup copy option, turning off automatically.

Migration & Recovery