Hoyo Sha Stuck On Removing Backup Files

2 min read 01-01-2025

Many Genshin Impact players using the Hoyoverse launcher have encountered a frustrating issue: the launcher gets stuck on the "Removing backup files..." stage, seemingly indefinitely. This can be incredibly irritating, preventing you from launching the game and potentially disrupting your gameplay. While Hoyoverse hasn't explicitly addressed this issue with a comprehensive fix, several troubleshooting steps can usually resolve the problem.

Understanding the Problem

The "Removing backup files..." message typically appears during the update process or when the launcher needs to clear old files to make space for new ones. However, sometimes the process hangs, leaving players staring at a screen that seemingly never progresses. This could be due to several factors, including corrupted files, insufficient disk space, or issues with the launcher itself.

Troubleshooting Steps

Before you attempt any drastic measures, try these steps:

1. Check Your Disk Space:

This is the most common culprit. Ensure you have sufficient free space on the drive where Genshin Impact is installed. The game requires a considerable amount of space, and insufficient room can lead to this error. Free up some space by deleting unnecessary files or moving them to an external drive.

2. Restart Your Computer:

This might seem obvious, but a simple restart can often resolve temporary software glitches. Close the Hoyoverse launcher completely before restarting your computer.

3. Run the Launcher as Administrator:

Sometimes, the launcher lacks the necessary permissions to fully delete the backup files. Right-click on the Hoyoverse launcher icon, select "Run as administrator," and try the update process again.

4. Check Your Antivirus Software:

Your antivirus software might mistakenly flag the backup files as malicious, preventing their deletion. Temporarily disable your antivirus software (only while attempting the update) and see if the issue persists. Remember to re-enable your antivirus after the update completes.

5. Reinstall the Hoyoverse Launcher:

If the above steps fail, a clean reinstall of the Hoyoverse launcher might be necessary. Completely uninstall the launcher, then download and install a fresh copy from the official Hoyoverse website. This ensures you're starting with a clean, uncorrupted installation.

6. Contact Hoyoverse Support:

If none of the above solutions work, it's time to reach out to Hoyoverse support directly. Provide them with detailed information about the issue, including screenshots if possible. They might have more specific solutions or be aware of broader issues affecting the launcher.

Preventing Future Problems

To minimize the chances of encountering this problem in the future:

Regularly check your disk space: Keep an eye on your hard drive space to ensure you have ample room for game updates.
Keep your launcher updated: Ensure your Hoyoverse launcher is up-to-date to benefit from potential bug fixes.
Close unnecessary programs: Closing other applications while updating Genshin Impact might improve performance.

By following these steps, you can hopefully resolve the "Removing backup files..." issue and get back to enjoying Genshin Impact. Remember, patience and methodical troubleshooting are key.