How to Resolve the 'bzfileids.dat file is too large' Error

Backblaze Computer Backup maintains a file on your computer called bzfileids.dat. When Backblaze Computer Backup backs up your files, it loads the bzfileids.dat file into RAM to run a checksum before uploading your files to the server. 

If you back up an extremely large number of files, or if your computer has used the Computer Backup for a very long time, the bzfileids.dat file may become too large to be fully loaded into RAM. When this happens, the Backup Client displays the error message bzfileids.dat file is too large.

About Revalidation

Revalidating your backup does not always resolve this error. Revalidation updates the Backblaze Client to the latest version and verifies whether the error is valid or transient.

If the error does not return after revalidation, no further action is required.

Revalidating your Backup Data (Mac)

1. Navigate to https://secure.backblaze.com/update.htm.
2. Download the installer for macOS.
   Warning

   Do not uninstall the Backblaze Client, and do not skip the next step.
3. Restart your computer.
4. When your computer is back up, open the installer and click Install Now.
5. Restart your computer.
6. Click the Backblaze icon in your menu bar to open the Backup Client.
7. Select Preferences.
8. Press and hold the Option key, and click Restore Options.
9. Let the process run for three to four hours.

Revalidating your Backup Data (Windows)

1. Navigate to https://secure.backblaze.com/update.htm.
2. Download the installer for Windows.
   Warning

   Do not uninstall the Backblaze Client, and do not skip the next step.
3. Restart your computer.
4. When your computer is back up, open the installer and click Install Now.
5. Restart your computer.
6. Click the Backblaze icon in the task bar or the Start menu to open the Backup Client Control Panel.
7. Select Preferences.
8. Press and hold the Control key, and click Restore Options.
9. Let the process run for three to four hours.

If the Error Reappears After Revalidation

If the error returns after completing the revalidation steps above, the existing backup cannot be repaired.

At this point, the only resolution is to:

1. Delete the existing backup.
2. Create a completely new backup.

Creating a new backup generates fresh backup logs and prevents the bzfileids.dat file from continuing to grow beyond usable limits.