A Comprehensive Comparison of the 24 Best Online Backup Software
10 Best Online Backup Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 24 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
In today's digital world, safeguarding your data has become paramount. Think about all those priceless memories on your hard drive or that pivotal project you've been working on your Mac. This brings people to the world of online backup services, an evolving realm that has emerged as the frontrunner for data protection. From Android to iOS, laptops to mobile devices, the best online backup services ensure that whether it's a priceless photo or a critical document, everything is safely tucked away.
I've scoured through countless backup providers and the best cloud backup services, considering aspects like upload speed, encryption key security, file syncing, and even bandwidth allocation. After all, in an era of evolving threats, ensuring your initial backup, and maintaining it across multiple platforms using a web browser or any platform-specific interface, is the key to data longevity.
What Is an Online Backup Software?
Online backup software provides a digital solution for storing copies of data on remote servers or in cloud infrastructure. Organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations, utilize these tools to safeguard their valuable information against hardware failures, data breaches, and other potential data loss scenarios.
With threats like malware constantly looming and the significance of antivirus systems, online storage serves as your reliable guardian. They go beyond being just a cloud storage service; they offer file sharing and extensive storage space, and ensure your backup plan is top-notch. And while the external hard drive serves its purpose, the peace of mind that off-site backup gives, where your data is safe, even if your primary device meets an unforeseen accident, is unparalleled. Not to mention, these tools come with two-factor authentication, ensuring that your private key remains uncompromised.
Best Online Backup Software Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Acronis Cyber Protect | From $5/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| BluVault | From $10/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| MSP360 Managed Backup | From $6/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Clumio | From $5/user/month (min 10 seats) | Website |
| Commvault | From $42/user/year (billed annually) | Website |
| NinjaOne Backup | Pricing upon request. | Website |
| Ahsay | From $4/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Unitrends | From $9/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Datto Backupify | From $3/user/month (min 5 seats) | Website |
| IDrive Backup | From $5.79/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareBest Online Backup Software Reviews
Acronis Cyber Protect integrates backup, disaster recovery, next-gen antimalware, cybersecurity, and endpoint management tools into one platform. Converging these various functions ensures that businesses are holistically covered against a range of modern cyber threats, aligning with its 'best for cyber protection suite' classification.
Why I Picked Acronis Cyber Protect: While I was selecting tools for inclusion, I judged each based on their features, versatility, and ability to address present-day threats. Acronis Cyber Protect caught my attention with its integrated approach, amalgamating crucial cybersecurity aspects under one roof.
It was evident from my comparisons that Acronis is uniquely positioned as the 'best for cyber protection suite' given its comprehensive protective measures.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Acronis Cyber Protect shines with its AI-driven antimalware and ransomware protection. Additionally, its real-time data protection ensures that data remains uncompromised. As for integrations, the tool ties in with popular systems like Microsoft 365, VMware, Linux, and a slew of other platforms, allowing for diverse deployment options.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive range of system integrations
- AI-driven antimalware capabilities
- Comprehensive, integrated cyber protection solution
Cons:
- Some advanced features may be overkill for very small businesses
- Occasionally resource-intensive during scans
- Learning curve for those used to separate solutions for backup and cybersecurity
BluVault delivers a comprehensive solution designed primarily to secure endpoint data. As data breaches become increasingly sophisticated, it's crucial to have a dedicated tool that prioritizes the security of data right at its source, the endpoints.
Why I Picked BluVault: Among the myriad of backup solutions, I chose BluVault due to its laser-focused approach to endpoint data. In a landscape where endpoints often become vulnerable targets, BluVault stands out by offering stringent security measures. I am convinced that for businesses seeking specialized protection for their endpoint data, BluVault shines as the best for endpoint data security.
Standout Features & Integrations:
At its core, BluVault offers features like data encryption at rest and in transit, ensuring that data remains inaccessible to prying eyes. The tool also has a unique BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) support, allowing businesses to maintain data integrity even on employee personal devices. Integrations-wise, BluVault works harmoniously with platforms like OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox, ensuring data flow and backup.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive integrations with popular cloud storage platforms
- BYOD support
- Robust encryption for data at rest and in transit
Cons:
- Potential complexities in the initial setup
- Might not be suitable for businesses not focused on endpoint security
- Requires annual billing
MSP360 Managed Backup provides comprehensive backup and recovery solutions tailored specifically for managed service providers. The software's core design aligns with the unique needs of MSPs, ensuring they offer top-tier backup services to their clients while maintaining operational efficiency.
Why I Picked MSP360 Managed Backup: In my quest for the most adept backup software for MSPs, MSP360 Managed Backup quickly caught my attention. Judging from its capabilities and user feedback, it’s evident that this tool has carved a niche for itself. My determination, based on comparisons and inherent features, places MSP360 Managed Backup at the forefront for managed service providers seeking an all-encompassing backup solution.
Standout Features & Integrations:
MSP360 Managed Backup's robust feature set includes block-level backup, which significantly speeds up the backup process, and a centralized management dashboard that allows for quick overview and adjustments. Integration-wise, the tool supports a wide array of storage destinations, including AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, catering to varied storage preferences.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad range of storage destination integrations
- Centralized management for multiple clients
- Block-level backup for faster processing
Cons:
- Lack of some advanced analytics features for reporting
- Mobile application interface could be improved
- Initial setup might be challenging for some
Clumio provides an advanced cloud-based backup solution that emphasizes the protection of enterprise-level data. With the exponential growth of data in large organizations, ensuring that it's safely and efficiently backed up is paramount.
Why I Picked Clumio: I chose Clumio after an extensive comparison of numerous backup solutions. Its strength lies in its robust architecture built explicitly for enterprise data protection. The choice was clear: For businesses seeking a scalable, cloud-native platform tailored to large-scale operations, Clumio is undoubtedly the best for enterprise-level cloud protection.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Clumio excels with features like air-gapped backups, which significantly reduce the risk of cyber threats, and its universal restore capability ensures that data can be retrieved and restored from any point. Its integration ecosystem is impressive, allowing smooth interoperability with platforms like AWS, Microsoft 365, and VMWare, making it highly adaptable in diverse IT environments.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integration with major platforms
- Universal restore capability
- Air-gapped backups for increased security
Cons:
- Requires a minimum purchase of 10 seats
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- May be overkill for smaller businesses
Commvault delivers a unified backup and recovery platform, facilitating data protection for enterprises and mid-sized organizations alike. Its capacity to provide a complete set of backup features and cater to various data needs is precisely why it's recognized as 'best for comprehensive backup solutions.'
Why I Picked Commvault: I chose Commvault for this list after a thorough analysis and comparison of various backup tools in the market. Commvault distinguishes itself with its exhaustive range of backup solutions, catering to almost every conceivable data protection need.
Given its comprehensive set of features and adaptability, it became clear why this tool is ideally suited for businesses seeking all-encompassing backup solutions.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Commvault boasts of features like data deduplication, which ensures efficient storage utilization and ransomware protection to safeguard your backups. Additionally, it offers integrations with many cloud storage providers, ensuring a backup experience, and supports a wide variety of applications, databases, and virtual environments.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible deployment models, be it on-premises, hybrid, or entirely cloud-based
- Integration capabilities with a variety of cloud storage options
- Offers extensive data protection capabilities beyond just backup
Cons:
- Licensing structure can be confusing for some businesses
- Some users may find the user interface less intuitive than competitors
- Can be complex to set up initially
NinjaOne Backup is a tool designed to provide not just secure backups but also integrated IT monitoring solutions for businesses. It shines particularly in scenarios where organizations need their backup solutions to communicate easily with IT monitoring systems, ensuring timely alerts and data protection.
Why I Picked NinjaOne Backup: During my research, I determined that NinjaOne Backup offered an unparalleled integration between backup solutions and IT monitoring systems. Its ability to weave these two critical IT functions together is what differentiates it from other backup tools. Given the importance of timely alerts and data insights in the IT domain, I am of the opinion that NinjaOne Backup stands out as the optimal choice for those prioritizing IT monitoring integration.
Standout Features & Integrations:
NinjaOne Backup boasts features like continuous data protection, ensuring real-time backup without large backup windows. Its proactive alert system is tailored for IT monitoring, making anomaly detection more efficient. It integrates with popular IT management platforms and ticketing systems, allowing for a more cohesive IT workflow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compatibility with a wide range of IT management platforms
- Proactive alerting system tailored for timely anomaly detection.
- Integrated approach between backup and IT monitoring.
Cons:
- Potential for increased costs with add-on features or integrations
- The learning curve for users unfamiliar with integrated IT tools
- Might be overkill for organizations only looking for a backup solution
Ahsay prides itself on its robust capability to back up data to multiple destinations simultaneously. In a digital landscape where data storage can be dispersed across varied platforms, Ahsay steps up, ensuring no corner of your digital presence goes unprotected.
Why I Picked Ahsay: Navigating the landscape of backup tools, Ahsay stood out as a beacon for its unique multi-destination backup prowess. It was an easy decision to choose Ahsay after comparing its features. This tool proves its weight in gold for businesses juggling backups across diverse platforms.
I firmly believe Ahsay is the best for multi-destination backups, effectively bridging the fragmentation gap in data storage.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Ahsay's centerpiece is its Universal Backup Agent, which provides centralized management for various backup tasks. With features like deduplication and continuous backup, it ensures data integrity and immediate protection. Ahsay integrates with platforms like VMware, Hyper-V, and popular databases, catering to businesses with diverse IT infrastructures.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Continuous backup for up-to-the-minute protection
- Deduplication feature ensuring data optimization
- Centralized backup management
Cons:
- Potential learning curve for first-time users
- Interface might feel dated to some
- Pricing model can be a tad complex for some users
Unitrends is recognized for providing a comprehensive backup and continuity solution, facilitating both local and cloud-based recoveries. Its prowess in hybrid cloud recovery ensures that businesses can safeguard their critical data irrespective of where it resides, making it an apt choice for its 'best for hybrid cloud recovery' distinction.
Why I Picked Unitrends: In determining which tools to spotlight, I had to judge and compare them based on their resilience, efficiency, and adaptability to modern backup needs. Unitrends stood out with its unique capability to combine on-premises and cloud recoveries easily.
After having opinions from various sources and weighing their pros and cons, I chose Unitrends because its emphasis on hybrid cloud recovery aligns perfectly with businesses seeking versatile recovery options.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Unitrends boasts features like instant recovery, ransomware detection, and automated testing to validate backups. Furthermore, its integrations are noteworthy; it ties in well with platforms such as VMware, Hyper-V, Windows, and a variety of Linux distributions, facilitating diverse recovery scenarios.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Versatile integration with popular operating systems and virtual environments
- In-built ransomware detection to safeguard backups
- Robust hybrid cloud recovery capabilities
Cons:
- Larger deployments might experience incremental costs
- Initial setup requires some technical know-how
- The interface may seem cluttered to new users
Datto Backupify is a backup solution specifically engineered for businesses utilizing cloud-based SaaS applications. By ensuring data continuity, even in cloud environments, it provides an added layer of protection against data loss events such as accidental deletions or software glitches.
Why I Picked Datto Backupify: Navigating through numerous backup options, I was intent on finding a solution that catered effectively to SaaS applications. In the process, Datto Backupify stood out for its focused approach towards cloud application protection. After comparing several tools and diving into user experiences, I determined that Datto Backupify justly deserves the tag of 'best for SaaS applications backup'.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Datto Backupify is distinguished by its point-in-time backups, offering precise data restoration points. Its intuitive user interface also simplifies the process of managing and restoring backups. Integration-wise, Datto Backupify aligns well with major SaaS providers, notably Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and Salesforce, to name a few.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad spectrum of integrations with popular SaaS platforms
- Simplified management and restoration process
- Point-in-time backups ensure precise data restoration
Cons:
- Limited to only a few SaaS platforms, excluding some niche applications
- Restoration speeds can sometimes be slow
- Lacks some advanced configuration options
IDrive Backup is known for its ability to offer a secure and efficient backup solution, ensuring that individual users can easily store and access their digital content. Tailored specifically for personal use, IDrive delivers a storage solution that ensures your personal files and memories are safe, making it fittingly dubbed 'best for personal cloud storage.'
Why I Picked IDrive Backup: When selecting a backup tool, especially for personal use, I give precedence to ease of use, storage capacity, and security. IDrive Backup was a standout because of its reputation in the cloud storage community and its tailored features for individual users.
I determined IDrive to be a top pick, especially after comparing it to similar platforms, as it emphasizes personal storage needs without compromising on features.
Standout Features & Integrations:
IDrive Backup comes with features such as real-time backup, ensuring that the latest versions of files are always saved, and end-to-end encryption for enhanced security. The platform also integrates well with most personal devices, from PCs to smartphones, and supports backup from social media accounts like Facebook and Instagram.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time backup capabilities
- Offers encryption both at rest and during transfer for heightened security
- Intuitive interface suitable for non-tech savvy individuals
Cons:
- Limited advanced features compared to enterprise-level solutions
- Mobile app experience can vary across devices
- Restoring large datasets can be time-consuming
Other Noteworthy Online Backup Software
Below is a list of additional online backup software that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. They are definitely worth checking out.
- Backblaze
Good for straightforward cloud storage needs
- Duplicati
Good for free encrypted backups
- SpiderOak
Good for privacy-conscious backups
- Cove Data Protection
Good for managed service providers
- Zoolz
Good for affordable long-term storage
- Redstor
Good for instant data recovery
- ElephantDrive
Good for multi-device synchronization
- Cohesity Helios
Good for unifying global data management
- Barracuda Backup
Good for integrated threat protection
- Teradata Vantage
Good for advanced analytics at scale
Selection Criteria for Choosing Online Backup Software
When looking for top-tier backup and data protection software, it's imperative to evaluate each based on key criteria. From my own experience, after testing and researching numerous tools in the market, it became clear that not all backup solutions are created equal.
I've evaluated dozens of backup tools, but for this review, I focused specifically on their data resilience, cloud integration, and IT monitoring capabilities. Here's a breakdown of the essential criteria that I took into account:
Core Functionality
- Data Backup: Tools should provide comprehensive backup options for both on-premise and cloud storage.
- Data Restoration: Ability to swiftly recover lost data and restore it to its original or a new location.
- Data Synchronization: Keeping data synchronized across multiple devices or locations.
- Scheduled Backups: Ability to automate backups at regular intervals.
- Real-time Backup: Continuous monitoring and backup of new or changed files without user intervention.
Key Features
- Encryption: Robust encryption methods to ensure data safety during storage and transfer.
- Versioning: Maintaining multiple versions of files to track changes and restore to any previous state.
- Deduplication: Reducing storage needs by saving only the unique data.
- Compliance Assurance: Features that aid in meeting industry-specific data retention and protection standards.
- Remote Management: The capacity to manage backups remotely, ideal for IT teams overseeing multiple locations or cloud deployments.
Usability
- Intuitive Dashboard: A clear, easy-to-navigate dashboard that provides an overview of backup status, storage consumption, and any issues or alerts.
- Drag-and-drop Functionality: Especially for tools that offer cloud storage solutions, the ability to easily move or prioritize files using drag-and-drop.
- Role-based Access: For organizations, having the ability to set up varying levels of access based on job role or department is crucial.
- Learning Resources: Given the technical nature of backups, the best tools provide clear tutorials, FAQs, or learning modules to assist users.
- Responsive Support: Timely and knowledgeable customer support can make a difference, especially during data recovery crises.
Most Common Questions Regarding Online Backup Software (FAQ's)
What are the benefits of using online backup software?
Online backup software offers a range of advantages for both individuals and businesses, including:
- Data Protection: These tools provide a secure way to store data, shielding it from potential threats like cyberattacks, hardware failures, or physical damages.
- Easy Accessibility: With data stored online, you can access your files from anywhere, anytime, given you have an internet connection.
- Automated Backups: Most software automates the backup process, ensuring that your data is regularly updated without manual intervention.
- Cost-Effective: Online backups often eliminate the need for physical storage infrastructure, reducing overhead costs.
- Disaster Recovery: In case of unforeseen events like natural disasters, having an online backup means your data remains safe and can be restored quickly.
How much do online backup software tools typically cost?
Pricing for online backup software can vary widely based on features, storage capacity, and the target audience (individuals vs. enterprises). Some tools offer pay-as-you-go models where you’re billed based on the actual storage you use, while others have fixed monthly or yearly subscription fees.
What are the typical pricing models for these tools?
Most online backup software tools adopt one of the following pricing models:
- Subscription-Based: A recurring fee, either monthly or annually, which may include tiered plans based on storage capacity or features.
- Pay-as-You-Go: Users pay only for the storage they use, often billed monthly.
- One-Time Purchase: Rare, but some tools may offer a perpetual license where users make a single payment for lifetime access.
What's the typical range of pricing for these tools?
Prices can range from as low as $5/month for basic plans targeted at individual users to over $100/month for enterprise-grade solutions with extensive features and larger storage capacities.
Which software options are on the cheaper end and which are more expensive?
On the cheaper end, tools like Backblaze and Duplicati offer competitive prices, often suited for individual users or small businesses. On the pricier side, solutions like Teradata Vantage and Cohesity Helios are geared toward enterprises and offer a more comprehensive range of features, justifying their higher price tags.
Are there any free online backup software options?
Yes, some tools like Duplicati and ElephantDrive offer free plans, although these usually come with limited storage capacity or features. It’s important to evaluate the needs and check if the free plans suffice or if a paid version is necessary for more comprehensive backup solutions.
Other Cloud Storage Software Reviews
Summary
Choosing the right online backup software is crucial for ensuring your data remains secure, accessible, and intact. Throughout this guide, I've explored various tools, each with its unique selling proposition catering to different needs. From understanding core functionalities, and discerning critical features, to weighing usability aspects, it's clear that the ideal backup solution is one that aligns with individual or business-specific requirements.
Whether you're after unlimited backup, a user-friendly web interface, backup data for multiple computers, or compatibility with unlimited devices, these tools have got you covered. From the iPhone's integration to macOS’s robust performance, these tools resonate with efficiency. Be it the file size you're trying to backup, the disk image you're aiming to mirror, or the number of devices you’re looking to sync, it's all possible.
Key Takeaways
- Align with needs: While a plethora of backup solutions exist, it's essential to select one that aligns with your specific needs, be it for individual use, a small business, or a large enterprise.
- Factor in pricing models: Understand the different pricing models - subscription-based, pay-as-you-go, or one-time purchase. Remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best, and the most expensive one might offer features you don't need.
- Usability matters: Beyond core functionalities, a tool's usability, including its interface, ease of onboarding, and customer support, plays a significant role. Ensure the software you choose offers an intuitive experience and adequate support to navigate any challenges.
What Do You Think?
I strive to provide comprehensive and accurate information for my readers. If you're using an online backup software that hasn't made it to my list or know of a tool you believe deserves a mention, please let me know. Your insights and recommendations help ensure my guide remains up-to-date and valuable for everyone. I appreciate your input and look forward to exploring your suggestions.