How to Fix Windows Server Backup Access is Denied Easily

User Case: Windows Server Backup Error: Access is Denied

“I got an error on a Windows Server 2012 saying Access is denied when attempting to back up using the Windows Server Backup service. Why would this happen? How can I solve this “Windows Server backup access is denied”error?"

Windows Server Backup (WSB) is a built-in feature provided by Windows for backing up and recovering data. It allows users to create backup copies of entire disk volumes on another local disk. These backups can be used to restore individual datasets or even the entire disk when needed.

Unfortunately, there are instances when the Windows Server Backup service goes wrong, such as Windows Server Backup service missing, Windows Server Backup stuck on reading data please wait, etc. In this guide, we will cover reasons and solutions for the Windows Server Backup access is denied problem.

Reasons for Windows Server Backup Access is Denied

The access is denied error usually occurs during a server backup process in Windows Server. Several scenarios can lead to this error, including:

• You're using a cluster that's running Windows Server.
• You perform a backup or run the vssadmin list writers command on one of the cluster nodes.

How to Solve Windows Server Backup Access is Denied in 3 Ways

To work around this Windows Server Backup is not working issue, you can try the following methods.

Solution 1. Check if Windows Server Backup service is Running

As you are well aware, backups hold immense significance within the realm of business operations. In the unfortunate event of theft, flood, or fire, the loss of vital data could lead to the complete devastation of your entire enterprise. By ensuring the presence of a comprehensive backup system, you can find solace in knowing that your business remains safeguarded, even amidst adversity.

Below are the steps that you can follow to see if your server is being backed up and the current Windows Server Backup status.

Step 1. Log in to your server using admin credentials.  

Step 2. Open the metro interface by clicking on the Start menu.

Step 3. In the search window that appears on the right side of your screen, begin typing Backup. This will prompt the display of a program called Windows Server Backup. Choose and open it.

Step 4. The Windows Server Backup service will load, providing you with access to the backup status for the past 7 days.

Solution 2. Change Registry Settings

Another possible approach to resolving the problem is to address it through the assignment of suitable permissions to the account responsible for executing the service. This can be achieved by modifying the registry settings on the affected machine. The following steps outline the necessary procedure for accomplishing this task for solving VSS 0x80070005 access is denied issue:

Note:✎...

It is important to remember that modifying Registry settings carry a certain level of risk, as incorrect alterations can potentially result in system instability or crashes. It is highly advised to take precautionary measures such as backing up Windows Server prior to making any modifications.

Step 1. Press Win + R and enter regedit to open the Registry Editor.

Step 2. In Registry Editor, locate the following registry policy:

>> HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\BackupRestore\FilesNotToBackup

Step 3. On the right, right-click on the empty space, point to New, and then click Multi-String Value.

Step 4. Type IgnoreNTFS, and then press Enter.

Step 5. Right-click IgnoreNTFS, and then click Modify.

Step 6. In the Value data box, type \$Extend\* /s. Click OK, and then close Registry Editor. Restart the server to check if the Windows Server Backup failed access is denied error is solved.

An Error-Free and Easy-to-Use Alternative to Windows Server Backup

If you find that Windows Server Backup not working when creating multiple backups, the best professional Server backup software - AOMEI Backupper Server can help you.

👉 It is compatible with all Windows Server 2003, 2008, 2012, 2016, 2019, and 2022 and Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
👉 It allows you back up entire disk, system, partition, or individual files/folders, with multiple backup destinations like network share, NAS, internal/external hard drives, etc.
👉 It offers five automatic backup modes: Daily/Weekly/Monthly/Event triggers/USB plug in, helping you minimize the risk of data loss.
👉 It provides Backup Scheme that automatically manages your backup versions by deleting old backups based on the retention you define.

To initiate a server backup, proceed with the following steps:

Step 1. Begin by installing and launching AOMEI Backupper. Click on the Backup option and select your desired backup option, such as System Backup.

Step 2. Rename the Task Name if needed. All source parts are selected by default, you only need to choose your destination path, like another local disk or volume, network drive, etc.

Step 3. (Optional) Click Schedule Backup in the left bottom, and then choose Enable Schedule Backup to define the frequency at which the system backup should run.

Step 4. Confirm the operations and click Start Backup.

In addition to the aforementioned features, the software offers several other useful functionalities:

• Sync: If your goal is to back up files without compression, the software provides various sync options to suit your needs, including basic sync, real-time sync, mirror sync, or two-way sync.
• Restore: This feature enables you to create a bootable backup image by restoring either a system image or a disk image. Furthermore, it allows you to restore individual files and partitions as needed.
• Clone: You can clone disks, systems, or partitions without compression. The cloned drive, including the operating system, will be made bootable.

Conclusion

If you are encountering difficulties with Windows Server Backup access is denied and other server backup issues, AOMEI Backupper can serve as an effective solution. It has a user-friendly interface, offers comprehensive backup solutions, and can help you create multiple schedules and manage disk space easily. Just download it to have a try!