Windows 7: Failed backup - yet again

Every time I attempt to back up files, which takes forever, at the very end I always get a message: backup completed but some files were skipped! What files? What does skipped mean? Is this a valid backup? If files are skipped, does this compromise backup? As usual, MS does not provide any help or direction after that error message which is done in RED which would indicate that this is serious and dire! No fixes, no suggestions, no ideas where to go to resolve this matter (why am I not surprised?).
So, dear Forum, can anyone please help me with this. As I said, it is an ongoing and continuing issues.
Many thanks ...

I no longer use MS backup as it failed once too often. The files it FAILED to back up were jpg files. It backed up the folders but not the pictures although other documents were ok. Fortunately I had the Raw images backed up elsewhere.

I suggest you use a third party product. I use EaseUS Todo Backup Free

Hi speedyfastcat and welcome to Seven Forums. The usual cause of this is deleting a folder that is specified in the backup. The cure for it is to go through the Backup Configuration again.

Sorry for delay in responding.
I may have neglected to have replies emailed to me.
What is a backup configuration?
Who is deleting folder?
Why?
What folder is being deleted?
Is this folder important?
Who specifies this folder in the backup?
Why?
Thanks ...

One thing at a time.

What are you trying to back up? Windows? Personal data? "Everything"?

Generally speaking: you have control over what is backed up--the backup configuration.

I'm guessing you are using the built-in Windows Backup? There are simpler and more easily understood alternatives. Many would say they are superior as well.

If you don't understand the application you are using, it may be time to quit using it.

I'm sorry you didn't read my earlier query.
Factory restore backup, including Windows, has been made.
Scheduled backup is for files and data.
What do you mean by "everything"?
I am doing a basic back-up under Backup and Restore.
I do know how to back-up, your sarcasm to the contrary, but I will admit that the instructions to do the MS backup leave a lot to be desired. I haven't been able to locate a partial vs. complete backup instructions. I'm sure it's there; it is very difficult to maneuver around MS.
Thank you for that very helpful statement that it may be time for me to stop using a particular application since I clearly don't understand it!
If you are able to disclose the names of these simpler applications, more easily understood, and superior (always a good thing) alternatives you are referring to, it would greatly be appreciated. After all, those of us who are in need of simplicity and easy to comprehend applications would find those alternatives to be ever so helpful.
Thank you.

If you are trying to backup files and folders ( not an image of your drive), you can't do better than Karen's Replicator

Speedy:

I was not being sarcastic in the least. The MS tool is a first generation tool and is not refined or well-presented to the user.

Simpler applications to back up Windows (eg, your C partition):

Macrium would be my first choice. It's a free download.

Acronis would be my second choice. It is free if you have a Western Digital or Seagate hard drive.

Easiest to backup personal data files (as opposed to Windows), not using an "image":

Synctoy or Karen's Replicator or Second Copy. The first 2 are free. The last one is free for 30 days and $30 if you want to use it thereafter.

I would urge you not to rely on images to back up your personal data, but images are the only way to back up Windows per se.

I'd also advise you to not rely on an automated schedule. Do it manually. Maybe daily for your data and weekly, monthly, or quarterly for Windows itself. Manual backups keep you from being complacent and keep your head in the game.

And make full images rather than incrementals.

Hello speedyfastcat,

Freefilesync is also another good file backup tool.

FreeFileSync | Free Security & Utilities software downloads at SourceForge.net

Thanks for your reply.
Why do you recommend this product?