5 Free Services to Backup Your Data Online
Broadband Internet connections give users the power to do more than anyone ever thought possible when it comes to computer use. Online backups keep your data safe and encrypted online so you always have a recent copy of your information no matter where you are. You do not even need to spend money in order to backup online. Here are 5 free services to backup your data online that will keep your data safe without putting your wallet at risk.
1. iDrive (Windows, Mac OS X) –
The free iDrive service only backs up 2 GB of data, but for many users, that is enough to make the difference between a minor hiccup and a disaster. After installing a small program that runs in the background on your computer, you only need to click twice and your data will start uploading. Besides the free iDrive solution, other plans are available that begin at $4.95 per month for 150 GB of backup storage space.
2. Dropbox (Windows, Mac OS X, Mobile) –
Backs up your data by placing a folder on your desktop. Everything you put into that folder will be synchronized with your online storage at Dropbox.com. As with iDrive, the free solution offers 2 GB of storage, so if you need more space you will have to pay. Packages start at $9.99 for a 50 GB plan.
3. FBackup (Windows) –
Windows 7, Vista, XP, and Windows Server users have a great option when it comes to the totally free FBackup plan. This small program will automatically backup your data to a network location or to a USB flash drive or external hard drive. You can schedule your backups or have them run manually whenever you want them to. With FBackup, you can even program multiple storage locations, so you can have one copy online and another on a disk. FBackup is great for backing up files, even if they are open at the time, but is not recommended as a tool for a complete system backup.
4. Allway Sync (Windows) –
Another online backup tool that is free for personal use. This service will sync to external storage devices, other computes, and even the Internet to make sure your important files are always backed up. If you do not have a source for online storage, you can even purchase storage plans from the Allway Sync website. Otherwise you can use space you have on a Web server, FTP server, as well as recordable optic media and USB devices.
5. Mozy Free (Windows, Mac OS X) –
Online backup is rarely as easy as it is with Mozy. Although you will need to pay for the service to backup your entire computer, Mozy has a free service that backs up 2 GB online. This is enough to give the service a try or to hold most of your important documents, so give it a try. Mozy has one of the best deals around for paid online storage: unlimited storage for just $4.95 per month.
Give each of these 5 free services to backup your data online a try. Whether you stick with the free online storage options listed here or decide to pay for more space, one thing is certain: the ability to backup files online will save you time and money in the event you accidentally delete files or if your hard drive fails.
