Online backup services have made saving your data an almost mindless task. Simply sign up for one of these services, choose your backup options (files to save, time of backup, etc.) and let backups happen automatically. Your backups should take care of themselves with very little intervention from you.
There are both free online backup options, and those you pay for. Which is best for you?
Does “free” really mean free?
For most companies, free really does mean free, and quite a few companies offer free options. There are both benefits and drawbacks to using free backup services.
Benefits of using free online backup services
- Safe and secure protection, for free
As long as the company you choose is reputable, your data is as protected if you opt for free backup services as it would be with a paid option. Research various companies before you choose one, and make sure the one you choose gets good customer reviews. Google for company reviews, and check forums and other sites for unbiased feedback; then, choose the one that best handles your needs, has uninterrupted service, and will allow for easy data retrieval.
- Stellar basic backup functionality at no cost to you
The best free online backup services offer most of the amenities of paid backup service, such as the ability to set backups so that they take place automatically, and the ability to choose which files you want to save. Some offer the exact same functionality with their free services as they do with their paid services; the only difference is that you get less storage space (2 GB or under) as compared to the paid service.
Drawbacks to free backup services
- Limited storage space
Many free backup plans are actually “light” versions of a particular company’s paid backup service plans. Read the fine print carefully; depending on the company, many of these free plans offer the exact same functionality as the paid plan options, but you’ll get much less storage space. Opt for a paid plan if you’ve got a lot of data you want to back up.
- Limited functionality
It’s not true for every company, but some free online backup services limit functionality in addition to storage space. For example, you may only be allowed to back up your data once a day, or you may have to overwrite documents that have changed instead of saving various versions if you so choose. Visit forums or Google to find a free plan with the functionality you’re looking for.
Finally, make sure you keep up with terms and conditions. Companies may change their policies such that free service is no longer offered, or may have much less functionality than previously offered. Do your homework, read the fine print, and then choose carefully.
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