While little is known about how SugarSync got to be called that, somehow the name manages to convey exactly what this service is all about. For one, Sugar Sync online backup is not just about backing up data, it’s also about syncing files across a number of computers. Yes, this online backup and storage does this, and so much more.

File versioning, mobile access, mp3 streaming, online digital albums, and file sharing and collaboration, are only a few of the other features you'll read about in this SugarSync review. Files are backed up in real time and not just when the schedule calls for it, and file access and restoration can be made from just about any browser or web-enabled device. What's even better is that these features are backed by proven security technology and an intuitive, easy-to-use interface. With this powerhouse combo, you got yourself a really sweet deal with SugarSync.

Full Review

SugarSync has made some enhancements to their service since this review was written. You can now control which files you want synced across all your devices. You can read about the SugarSync enhancements here.

Of course, you’d have to be willing to pay the price for such a versatile backup and storage solution. And this is where things could turn sour for some users, especially for those who have large volumes of data. There is no unlimited backup with Sugar Sync and for just 30GB of data, you’d have to pay $4.99 for the month-to-month plan or $49.99 for the yearly plan. But if you want more than just an online backup service and if you’re able to fully utilize all its features, SugarSync is an option that’s worth seriously considering. SugarSync offers a free 30-day trial for any plan so there’s nothing to lose if you give it a shot.

Ease of Use

Nobody should have to jump through hoops just to get their file backups done and in this aspect, SugarSync has scored pretty well with reviewers. TopTenReviews calls it the “easiest online backup service” they’ve ever tested.

Initially, you do have to set up the SugarSync File Manager on all computers you’d like backed up but downloading and installing the file takes only about a few minutes, and after that you’re all set. The SugarSync software supports drag and drop options and uses a similar file organization across all types of operating systems, so whether you want to add folders for backup, or access files on another device, you should be able do so without any trouble.

The Backup Process

Setting up SugarSync on your computer includes logging in to your account and then choosing a name and an icon for each of your computers. Once this is done, you will be asked to choose the folders you want backed up and/or synchronized. The main folders – Desktop, My Documents, and My Pictures – are already selected by default but at this point, you can also add more folders to the backup set.

A common complaint with most online backup services is that the initial backup takes a long time, too long for most users, and the same is true with Sugar Sync, although it would also depend on how much data you want backed up. The Initial Sync window of the program would in fact inform you that “A typical high-speed internet connection can upload 2 to 3 GB of data per day.” This means uploading 20GB of data can take about 6 to 10 days. The good thing is, like most other backup solutions, you can continue using your computer while the files are being synced in the background.

One thing that sets SugarSync apart from other services is that it offers real time backups. Once all files are uploaded to the Sugar Sync cloud, the program automatically detects any changes made on the files or folders stored there and then syncs these files. Note that we use the term “sync” here because the edited file or folder will not only be saved on the servers, but will be immediately updated as well when you access it from another computer, smartphone, or any internet-enabled device within your synchronization network.

SugarSync also supports file versioning. So if you’re not happy with the latest version of the document you’ve just saved, you can still dig up the last five versions of the same file. And you don’t have to worry about how much space this could take up (as SugarSync doesn’t offer unlimited storage) because only the latest version is added up to your storage quota.

Backup Status

With the initial sync done, you can expect the succeeding backups to take much faster now since only the changed files need to be updated. You will know when the sync process is in progress because it will be indicated on the system tray icon on the lower right hand corner of your desktop. A green icon with arrows means that the software is currently syncing. To view the status of the upload, just click on the icon and see which files are being synced.

Once the process is completed, the icon will change to that of a hummingbird, the SugarSync logo. If you navigate to your folders using Windows Explorer (for a PC for instance), all files and folders that have already been uploaded up to the latest version will be marked with a green icon with a check mark. To add more folders for backup or change synchronization options, you can click on the same SugarSync icon from the system tray.

Performance

SugarSync’s range of features which includes among others, immediate backup and syncing across multiple devices is pretty impressive.

However, such convenience is not without its drawbacks. With other online storage services, you can schedule backups to take place during off-peak hours or when the computer is not in use and this allows you to work without any worry of the software hogging your bandwidth. In the case of SugarSync, you have no control as to when the program works because it does real time backups or as soon as changes are made in the files or folders.

Both LaptopMag and Online Backups Review have noted slow response times particularly when uploading large files, while on the other hand, Rafe Needleman of CNET says “SugarSync is incredibly fast” in his review. With such conflicting experiences, it may be safe to say that the speed with which SugarSync performs hinges a lot on the volume of data being processed and the connection speed.

Security

Making the user’s peace of mind a top priority, the company has made sure that it leaves no stone unturned in providing secure and reliable backup service. Data entrusted to the SugarSync cloud is protected during the upload process, while in storage, and when files are downloaded by the user.

When the software syncs files, the data is transmitted through a Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption, a security protocol that is commonly used in web communications. As soon as they reach the servers, the files are then encrypted using 128-bit AES. If the files are accessed by the user, the data goes through the same security standards before reaching the device.

What makes these technologies work may be beyond what most users can grasp, but all you really need to know is that these are tested security measures and are the same ones used by online banks and ecommerce sites. In addition, SugarSync’s servers are housed in two highly-advanced and protected data centers in separate locations. Should one center go down for some reason, the files are still accessible.

Restoring Data

Because it was designed to be more of a synchronization tool than just a simple backup solution, there are several ways of restoring data from the servers. One is by simply accessing it from any computer included in your synchronization network. Sugar Sync file managers are available for both PC and Mac, and apps can also be downloaded for the iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Windows Mobile, Android, Blackberry, and Symbian devices.

You also have the option of downloading synced files from computers which are not installed with the software. As long as the computer is connected to the internet, you can log on to your personal SugarSync website and from there, access the needed files.

SugarSync’s multimedia functionality is also something that has scored big points with most reviewers and users. This means your mp3 playlists which have been synced already can be streamed online through any computer or smartphone. Also, digital photo albums can be created, organized, and shared immediately with others.

Remote Access

With SugarSync Mobile, you can do more than just access files even while on the move; you can also sync images and music files between your mobile device and desktop. Take a picture with your smartphone and it will automatically be saved on your computer at home too. This is one feature you’d be hard-pressed to find in any other online backup service.

Customer Support

Now with all these features and capabilities, the chances of a user needing help with something are much greater. Does SugarSync offer ample support channels to users? Unfortunately, no.

While putting this review together, I’ve come across a lot of users who were very disappointed with the company’s lack of customer support. One user commented that “technical support is totally useless” while another said that customer service was “non-existent”.

This isn’t exactly true though, as the company does have email and live chat support. Telephone support is also available but only if you are a Business Plan subscriber or are willing to pay $99.99 a year for this service alone.

However, if SugarSync wants to offer the complete package to consumers, then they should step up in the customer service department.

Bottom Line of this SugarSync Review:

While other backup services take pride in offering the simplest approach to online backup – just “set and forget”, this one puts emphasis on the fact that it does more than backup and yet still tries to keep things as easy for the user as possible.

Certainly, individuals who are constantly on the move and who need access to files anytime from any of their devices have a lot to be excited about with Sugar Sync. What SugarSync offers – powerful backup and synchronization, sharing and collaboration, mobile accessibility – may be just right for these users.

But if you’re one of those who just want assurance of a backup in case your hard drive crashes or your laptop gets stolen, you may find a syncing solution a bit overkill. Simple, basic backup, and particularly one that offers unlimited storage, would be the best option for you. The PCMag review of SugarSync put it best when it said that, “If you’re looking for the Swiss Army knife of file-synchronization, SugarSync is the service for you.”

Related posts:

1. SugarSync Business Review
2. SugarSync Makes Their BlackBerry App Even Better
3. SugarSync Updates Mobile Apps with More Features
4. SugarSync Enhances Their Service with Mobile Device Management
5. Say Goodbye To Email Attachment Issues with SugarSync for Outlook

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