How to Change Backup Frequency in Dropbox on Windows 11

Dropbox is a popular cloud service that keeps your files safe online. By default, Dropbox backs up your files every 15 minutes. This tutorial shows you how to change that schedule.

Why change your backup frequency?

Frequent backups can use up your computer’s power and slow down your internet connection. If you have a slow connection or do not change your files often, backing up every 15 minutes might be unnecessary. Adjusting this setting helps you save data and keeps your computer running smoothly.

What happens when done?

Once you change these settings, Dropbox will follow your new schedule. It will only back up your files at the times or days you have chosen, giving you more control over your system resources.

You can manage many settings in the Dropbox app, including starting Dropbox on system startup, disabling Dropbox startup in the background, adding Microsoft Office add-in, turning notifications on or off, managing backups, turning automatic backups on or off, renaming backup device name, and more.

How to change your backup schedule

Follow these steps to update your preferences:

1. Open the Dropbox window from your taskbar. Click the Taskbar overflow icon and select Dropbox.

2. Click the Settings (gear icon) at the top and select Preferences.

3. Go to the Backups tab. Click the Manage backups button under “This PC.”

4. If already set up, click My PC (DeviceName) under the Sync and backups tab.

5. On the settings page, find the Automatic backups section. Click the tile that says Backups will happen.
6. Use the menu to choose a new schedule:
   • Every 15 minutes
   • Once a day
   • Once a week
   • On a custom schedule

6. If you choose On a custom schedule, pick the specific days and times you prefer, then save your changes.

Note: Administrative access may be required if your computer’s security settings restrict app modifications.

Summary

Changing your Dropbox backup frequency is a simple way to improve your computer’s performance. By following these steps to adjust your settings, you can stop automatic backups from hogging your internet and system speed, especially if you rarely change your files. Use this guide to set a schedule that works best for your daily routine and turning off automatic backup.