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how to proceed when usb external hard drive maxes out on space

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I do incremental backups. Many increments since dec.2014. In order to do a new backup when it runs out of space I can delete some non acronis, non essential items on the disk. However, is it best to delete all the increments and do a new full backup from scratch
The external drive is 1tb

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It is best not to run many incrementals, and to keep as many chains (full+incr) that your disk can hold while still having always the space for a new full backup plus some space...
I recommend your last full backup not be so old that you would restore from it. I personally never run more that 6 incrementals for weekly backups. Typically 3, then a new full.

Thanks for your response. Just need to clarify, should I first delete the old full and all the incrementals and then run a new full.

Is it possible to keep the FULL and only delete all incrementals, Would that give you enough space for another full backup.
If yes, then you can delete the old full after the new full is performed.

A new task will be needed to set up your future backus as per example GH12.
Avoid editing the existing task. Stop using it and it can be removed from the list once have a new set of backups.

Example GH12 can help you to manage your backups using automatic cleanup --such as suggested by MVP Pat L
All the links listed should be of interest.

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Depending upon the type of backup scheme you wish to create, here is an example of each type. These can be set up for Disk image, or Partiton, or Files-folders backups. These example show how to set up automatic cleanup so the program will do the deletion after it reaches your set goal of how many chains to retain.

Editing an existing task is not recommended. Rarely does an edited task perform to user expectations. It is usually better to start with a new task using a new non-identical task name and point to a new storage sub-folder so each task has it own storage folder/sub-folder. Old task can be stopped or deleted from the task listings.

GH11. Create Custom Full Backup Scheme w/auto cleanup....Store/Keep 4 versions (chains). Use whatever number best fits the individual needs..

GH12. Create Custom Incremental Backup Scheme w/auto cleanup. ...Keep Full plus 6 Inc per chain. Store/Keep 4 chains. Use whatever number best fits your needs.

GH13. Create Custom Differential Backup Scheme w/auto cleanup. ...Keep Full plus 2 Diff per chain. Store/Keep 2 chains. Use whatever number best fits your needs.

GH25. Understanding differences between Inc and Dif for Safety

GH64. 71342: 2015 How to save a non-scheduled task.

GH63. 64640: Hints to help prevent issues with your TIB backup files creation.

GH63. 75086: A discussion on how to configure backup schemes.

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