A method for managing file based backups (FBBs) includes obtaining, by a FBB metadata file manager and by an application, a file request for a file stored in a FBB, wherein the FBB is stored in a backup storage system, identifying, using a FBB metadata file of the FBB, a storage location of the file, initiating generation of a temporary storage device, storing a copy of the file in the temporary storage device using the storage location and the FBB, and initiating, after the storing, access to the copy of the file for the application.