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Accidentally deleted backup folder, can't access Finder, etc.

I accidentally deleted my backup folder, and now I am unable to access the Finder, Desktop, Documents, etc. I get the message that "Finder can't be found", "Desktop can't be found" and on and on. Dropbox isn't syncing because it can't access the desktop. Running Ventura 13.2.1

How would I go about restoring the backup folder I deleted? All of my files are still in the cloud, btw.

Thank you!

- Debby

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Jay

Hi @Debkny, thanks for bringing this to our attention.

Could you try restoring your computer backup from the Dropbox site directly?

Keep me updated with any progress!

Debkny

Hi, Jay -

It's not giving me the option to restore...

- Debby

Debkny

Actually, I found the Restore button, but am getting the message that it can't restore because Dropbox is currently backing up. However, the backup is stalled because the Desktop isn't accessible due to the fact that I apparently deleted it. I paused Dropbox, but still got the error message. Quite the kerfuffle.

- Debby

Megan

Hi @Debkny, could you send me a screenshot of the Backup's status, when you visit your Backup page online?

Also, can you clarify the app's syncing status as we speak?

Debkny

Hi, Megan -

I can't send a screenshot because when I take it, it tries to save it to the Desktop, which isn't accessible.

Syncing-wise, it's been stuck on "Updating Files" since Friday, when I deleted the backup file.

- Debby

Hannah

Hey @Debkny, would you mind trying to disable backup through the Dropbox application preferences, by following these steps?

Make sure to choose the option to "Keep content in folders on this Mac" (or let us know if it doesn't allow you to).

Also, if you go to the Home folder via Finder, are you able to see the Desktop/Downloads/Documents folders there? or are they shortcuts?

Debkny

Hi, Hannah -

When I try to disable the backup, I get the message "The application 'Finder' can't be opened.

I'm thinking I might have to wipe my drive and then try to restore from either Dropbox or Time Machine. What are your thoughts?

- Debby

Hannah

Thanks for keeping me updated on this, Debby.

I will suggest an alternative here, so please let me know if it helps. You'll need to follow these steps:

Make sure all your files are available in your account online.
Quit the Dropbox app.
Manually reset your desktop folders location, by following the steps here.
Check that the folders are now accessible.