Written by If you’ve determined that the electronic world can only be expected to function with as much predictability as the real world, you’ve probably arrived at the conclusion that online data backup is a must-have. Laptops are frequently stolen, viruses plague hard drives, and files are constantly being crippled by formatting issues– or they become inexplicitly corrupt. The only guaranteed way to protect data is to take the preventative measure of backing up all files on a regular basis, and this is best achieved by purchasing online backup software. With all of the various online backup software and services available, selecting the right one may seem challenging.
1. Determine How Much Backup Space is Necessary
Before you begin shopping around, calculate how much data will need to be backed up across all of your computers and external hard drives. The majority of online backup companies will offer backup services for multiple computers at a slightly higher rate.
2. Make a Top 5 List for Online Backup Software Providers
Figure out who the leading online backup providers are and make a list. Consider asking colleagues or friends about how their employer approaches online backup.
3. Compare Services, Specifications, and Prices.
There are multiple differences between the major online backup software companies, and certain software is a better fit for smaller companies while some online backup providers cater to large corporations. For example, Carbonite offers unlimited backup storage for $54.95 per computer, whereas Mozy limits the amount of backup storage, but allows you to backup multiple computers at a low cost per month. Weigh the perks of each, and contact a sales representative to get answers to any specific questions you may have.
4. Consider Upgrading to The Total Package
Some online backup software companies also offer extensive cloud computing services that unite all of a business’s information in one server in addition to file backup. Companies such as Egnyte enable the functions of a company to exist on a server, while still protecting all of the files that are valuable to the company.
An In Depth Look at Two of the Top Online Backup Providers
Carbonite: Carbonite automatically backs up all user-generated files such as photos, documents, or spreadsheets, but leaves out applications or temporary files. Users are able to backup an unlimited amount of data for close to $55 per year. Rather than provide numerous supplementary services, Carbonite’s sole focus is providing quality back-up to their customer base.
Mozy: Provides automatic backup for either personal (MozyHome) use or business use (MozyPro). With MozyHome, users can create customizable backup rules to determine which files need to be backed up, and can choose between online backup sizes of 50 GB ($5.99/month, for 1 computer) or 125 ($9.99/month, for 3 computers). MozyPro costs a flat monthly fee of either $3.95/month for desktop licenses, or $6.95/month for server licenses; plus an additional $.50 for every GB backed up per month.
Read online backup reviews to help you choose the best software for your needs.
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