While Firefox Sync is the easiest and most reliable way to keep your data backed up across all your devices, you can create an automatic backup file for extra options if you prefer not to use Sync.

Sync automatically updates your bookmarks, history, passwords, and settings whenever you sign in with your Mozilla account, making sure your data is always up to date. However, the automatic backup option allows you to store a copy of your Firefox data on your local device or cloud for safekeeping.

The backup contains browsing data, such as bookmarks, settings, or passwords, to help you easily move it to a new computer or anytime you need to reinstall a fresh copy of Firefox.

When enabled, Firefox creates it, and you can store it locally or in the cloud. The backup file is refreshed every day with your latest browsing data.

Create a Firefox backup file

Turn backup on to create a backup file that is updated daily.

1. Click the main menu , and go to Settings.
2. Select Sync.
3. Scroll down to Backup, and click on Manage backup.
4. Choose the location to save the backup file.
   • If you’re using a Windows device, consider saving it to your OneDrive, since files in your OneDrive will be available when you set up a new Windows device.
5. Click on Turn on backup.

   

Protect your sensitive browsing data with a password

You can include passwords and payment methods, and encrypt your entire backup file with a password:

1. Check the Back up your sensitive data box.
2. Enter a password and type it in the Password field.
3. Confirm it in the Repeat password field.
4. Click on Turn on backup.

   

Turn backup off

1. Click the main menu , and go to Settings.
2. Select Sync.
3. Scroll down to Backup.
4. Click on Manage backup.
5. Click on Turn off and delete backup.

   

Restore Firefox with your backup file

1. Click the main menu , and go to Settings.
2. Select Sync.
3. Go to Restore your data, and click on Choose backup file.

   

Restore from a backup during Firefox setup

When you install Firefox on a new device, it will try to find a backup in your files. If a backup is found, an option to restore Firefox will be shown automatically.

1. Information about the detected backup file is shown. You can browse for a different backup file by clicking the Choose… button.
2. If the backup file is encrypted with a password, type the password in the Password box.
3. Click on (button Restore and restart}. Firefox will close and then reopen with all your data and settings restored.

   

4. Once Firefox restarts, choose your default and pinning preferences and click Save and continue.

What does the backup file save

The backup file saves browsing data, such as:

• Bookmarks
• Settings
• History
• Passwords
• Payment methods
• Extensions
• Other browsing data

Sensitive data such as passwords, payment methods, or credit card numbers is encrypted and protected by a password.

You can choose to back up:

• Basic data, and you won’t have to use a password.
• All data, including sensitive data, but you’ll have to use a password.

When you install Firefox on a new device, you can restore all your browsing data.

Troubleshoot problems with backing up or restoring your data

If you’re having trouble creating or restoring your Firefox backup, try the suggestions below. These common issues can often be fixed with a few simple steps.

Firefox couldn’t restore your backup

This may happen for a few reasons:

1. The file is not a valid backup
   • Make sure you’re selecting a file that was created by Firefox’s backup system.
   • Backup files have a specific structure and may not work if they’ve been modified or renamed.
   • You can also try searching your computer for: “Firefox backup” or “restore Firefox”
2. The selected folder or file was moved or deleted
   • If the backup file or folder was moved, Firefox may not be able to find it.
   • Use Choose backup file during restore and browse to the current file location manually

Backup failed or stopped

1. Your device ran out of storage space
   • Firefox can’t complete a backup if there isn’t enough space on your device.
   • Try clearing space on your hard drive and then turn backup off and on again:
     • Go to Settings > Sync
     • Click Manage backup
     • Click Turn off and delete backup, then re-enable it
2. Backup was interrupted due to repeated errors
   • If Firefox detects too many errors, it may stop backing up temporarily
   • Turning the backup off and back on can often resolve this

Issues with passwords or settings

1. You entered a password that doesn’t meet backup guidelines
   • When setting a backup password, follow the password strength and format requirements shown in the setup screen.
   • Try a secure combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a Mozilla account to use backup?

No, but we recommend creating a Mozilla account and using Firefox sync as an even more convenient and reliable way to back up your data. Firefox sync stores your data securely with Mozilla so that it can be accessed from any new device just by signing in.

Can I back up to the cloud?

Yes. You can choose a cloud location (like OneDrive or Dropbox) when selecting where to save your backup file.

Related articles

• Sync Firefox data
• How to install Firefox on Windows
• Update Firefox to the latest release