10 Best Online Backup Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 24 tools reviewed.
In today's digital world, keeping your data safe is a must. You and your team face the constant challenge of data loss, whether from hardware failure, cyber threats, or accidental deletion. That's where online backup software steps in, offering peace of mind with secure, accessible storage.
I've tested and reviewed various online backup solutions to help you find the best fit for your needs. I focus on unbiased, well-researched insights, drawing from my experience in the SaaS development industry.
In this article, you'll find a rundown of top picks, highlighting what makes each one unique. It's all about helping you make an informed decision to protect your valuable data.
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Best Online Backup Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top online backup software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for cyber protection suite | Not available | From $5/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 2 | Best for endpoint data security | Not available | From $10/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 3 | Best for managed service providers | Not available | From $6/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 4 | Best for enterprise-level cloud protection | Not available | From $5/user/month (min 10 seats) | Website | |
| 5 | Best for personal cloud storage | Not available | From $5.79/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 6 | Best for comprehensive backup solutions | 30-day free trial | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for IT monitoring integration | Not available | Pricing upon request. | Website | |
| 8 | Best for Microsoft 365 integration | Not available | From $3/user/month (min 10 seats) | Website | |
| 9 | Best for data resiliency framework | Not available | Pricing upon request. | Website | |
| 10 | Best for hybrid cloud recovery | Not available | From $9/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
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Site24x7
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.6 -
Docker
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.6 -
Pulumi
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8
Best Online Backup Software Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best online backup software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
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
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
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
AvePoint Cloud Backup is designed with a profound emphasis on backing up data within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. In the vast universe of cloud backup solutions, AvePoint holds a distinct position, tailoring its capabilities around the intricacies of Microsoft 365.
Why I Picked AvePoint Cloud Backup: In my journey of selecting tools, AvePoint Cloud Backup caught my attention with its unmatched synergy with Microsoft 365. The tool has carved out a niche, demonstrating its prowess in backing up Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, and more. After a thorough comparison, I determined that businesses relying heavily on Microsoft 365 would find AvePoint to be the best for Microsoft 365 integration.
Standout Features & Integrations:
AvePoint's capabilities extend beyond just backing up; it offers granular restore options ensuring precise data recovery. Additionally, their automatic backup schedule is a boon for companies looking for hands-off management. For integrations, apart from the entire suite of Microsoft 365, AvePoint also syncs with platforms like Dynamics 365, cementing its role in the Microsoft ecosystem.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated backup schedules
- Granular restore options
- Deep integration with Microsoft 365
Cons:
- Some users might find its Microsoft focus too narrow
- Requires a minimum of 10 seats
- Limited appeal for non-Microsoft 365 users
Druva Data Resiliency Cloud is a SaaS platform that offers data protection and management across endpoints, data centers, and cloud applications. With an emphasis on safeguarding business-critical data from threats and disruptions, Druva stands out, especially when one considers the essential nature of a data resiliency framework.
Why I Picked Druva Data Resiliency Cloud: Upon reviewing multiple tools, I selected Druva Data Resiliency Cloud for its unparalleled approach to ensuring data resiliency. What sets Druva apart is its unique cloud-native architecture, which significantly reduces potential points of failure in the data protection chain.
With the evolving complexities of digital threats, Druva's emphasis on a robust data resiliency framework places it at the forefront of data protection solutions.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Druva offers features like global deduplication, which reduces storage costs, and automated backup, ensuring data safety without manual intervention. It also integrates effortlessly with major cloud providers like AWS and Microsoft Azure, as well as enterprise applications such as Office 365, enabling streamlined backup and recovery processes.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated policies allow for easier regulatory compliance
- Simplified and centralized management interface.
- Cloud-native architecture provides an added layer of resiliency.
Cons:
- Data retrieval times can vary depending on the size and type of data
- Some users may want more granular control over certain features
- Initial setup might require technical expertise
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
Other Online Backup Software
Here are some additional online backup software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- CrashPlan
Good for continuous backup of business data
- Cove Data Protection
Good for managed service providers
- Cohesity Helios
Good for unifying global data management
- Teradata Vantage
Good for advanced analytics at scale
- Redstor
Good for instant data recovery
- Zoolz
Good for affordable long-term storage
- ElephantDrive
Good for multi-device synchronization
- SpiderOak
Good for privacy-conscious backups
- Duplicati
Good for free encrypted backups
- Barracuda Backup
Good for integrated threat protection
Online Backup Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best online backup software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like data security and ease of use. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Backing up data automatically
- Restoring files easily
- Encrypting data for security
- Scheduling regular backups
- Supporting multiple devices
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Offering file versioning
- Providing mobile access
- Supporting hybrid cloud backups
- Integrating with third-party apps
- Allowing unlimited file sizes
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Navigating the user interface
- Customizing backup settings
- Accessing help resources
- Performing tasks quickly
- Understanding the layout easily
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Providing training videos
- Offering interactive product tours
- Supplying templates for setup
- Hosting webinars for guidance
- Utilizing chatbots for support
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- Offering 24/7 support access
- Providing live chat options
- Responding quickly to inquiries
- Maintaining a comprehensive FAQ
- Supporting multiple communication channels
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Comparing pricing plans
- Evaluating feature inclusion
- Considering storage limits
- Assessing free trial availability
- Analyzing customer discounts
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Highlighting ease of use
- Noting reliability feedback
- Reviewing customer support experiences
- Evaluating overall satisfaction
- Analyzing feature effectiveness
How to Choose Online Backup Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Can the software grow with your needs? Consider future data growth and ensure the tool can handle increased storage without major cost hikes. |
| Integrations | Does it work with your existing tools? Check if it supports integrations with your current systems and apps to avoid workflow disruptions. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor it to your needs? Look for options to adjust settings to match your backup schedules and data priorities. |
| Ease of use | Is it user-friendly? Evaluate the interface to ensure your team can navigate and use it effectively without extensive training. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How quickly can you get started? Consider the setup time and resources needed. Look for tools with guided onboarding or customer support for a smooth start. |
| Cost | Does it fit your budget? Compare pricing plans carefully, considering hidden costs like additional storage fees or premium support charges. |
| Security safeguards | Are your data protected? Verify encryption standards and data center security measures to ensure your data remains safe from breaches. |
| Support availability | Will help be there when you need it? Check for 24/7 support options and response times to ensure you can get assistance when issues arise. |
What Is Online Backup Software?
Online backup software is a tool that automatically saves copies of your data in the cloud to protect against loss. IT professionals, business owners, and individuals use these tools to ensure data safety and accessibility. Automatic backups, encryption, and easy restoration features help with data security and recovery. These kinds of SaaS backup software provide peace of mind by keeping your important information safe and easily retrievable.
Features
When selecting online backup software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Automatic backups: Saves data regularly without manual intervention, ensuring your files are always up-to-date.
- Data encryption: Protects your data from unauthorized access during transfer and storage.
- File versioning: Allows access to previous versions of files, providing flexibility for edits and recovery.
- Multi-device support: Enables backups from various devices, ensuring all your data is covered.
- Scalability: Adapts to growing storage needs, making it suitable for expanding businesses.
- Integration capability: Works seamlessly with existing software and systems to maintain workflow continuity.
- User-friendly interface: Simplifies navigation and use, reducing the learning curve for new users.
- 24/7 customer support: Provides assistance whenever needed, ensuring quick resolution to issues.
- Hybrid backup options: Offers both cloud and local backups for added security and flexibility.
- Customizable settings: Let you tailor backup schedules and priorities to meet specific needs.
Benefits
Implementing online backup software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Regular maintenance with disk cleanup software can complement your backup strategy by ensuring optimal storage efficiency. Here are a few benefits you can look forward to:
- Data protection: Automatic backups and encryption keep your information safe from loss and unauthorized access.
- Easy recovery: File versioning and restoration features make it simple to retrieve and restore lost or edited files.
- Increased accessibility: Multi-device support ensures you can access your data from anywhere, anytime.
- Cost efficiency: Scalability allows you to pay only for the storage you need, accommodating growth without unnecessary expenses.
- Improved productivity: A user-friendly interface and integration capabilities save time and maintain workflow efficiency.
- Peace of mind: Reliable customer support and hybrid backup options provide assurance that your data is secure and recoverable.
Costs & Pricing
Selecting online backup software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in online backup software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Online Backup Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Limited storage, basic backup features, and basic security. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$15/month | Moderate storage, automatic backups, file versioning, and basic support. |
| Business Plan | $20-$50/user/month | Increased storage, advanced security, multi-device support, integrations, and priority support. |
| Enterprise Plan | $60-$100/user/month | Unlimited storage, custom solutions, advanced security, dedicated account management, and 24/7 support. |
Online Backup Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about online backup software:
How does online backup software handle large files?
Online backup software typically compresses large files to reduce their size before uploading them to the cloud. This helps save bandwidth and storage space. Check if the software has any file size limits and ensure your internet connection can handle the upload speed for large files.
Can you schedule backups at specific times?
Yes, most online backup software allows you to schedule backups at times that suit your workflow. You can choose daily, weekly, or monthly schedules. This flexibility ensures your data is backed up without interrupting your work, providing a set-and-forget convenience.
What happens if you exceed your storage limit?
If you exceed your storage limit, the software may stop backing up new data or charge additional fees. It’s important to monitor your usage and consider upgrading your plan if you consistently reach the limit. Some providers offer alerts to notify you when you’re nearing capacity.
How do you restore files from an online backup?
Restoring files is usually straightforward. Most software offers a user-friendly interface where you can select the files or folders you want to restore. You can often choose to restore to the original location or a new one, and some tools allow file version restoration as well.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching online backup software, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.
