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Easy to use backup


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#1 bobyboy

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Posted 05 December 2023 - 12:14 PM

I am looking for an easy to use backup program, I am no computer geek, just wish to back up my documents folder, nothing else every say 15 minutes.

Thanks for any suggestions.



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#2 MoxieMomma

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Posted 05 December 2023 - 12:55 PM

Hi, @Bobyboy:

 

There are many, many back-up options.

 

Do you want to back up your documents/data to the CLOUD (“someone else’s computer/server”) and/or LOCALLY (e.g., to your own physical, USB external hard drive or a separate, internal, back-up drive in the computer)?

 

There are advantages and disadvantages to both approaches, especially vis-à-vis “convenience” vs. “security” (always a trade-off). And nothing is absolute.

 

In some ways, they are complementary:

  • CLOUD – “less secure, but more convenient”: Nice to have if your house is burglarized, burns down or floods, but perhaps less “private” and less “secure” (depends on the product); pretty convenient, as the software can be configured to run in the background, with little user interaction; there can be a cost involved; etc.

 

  • LOCAL – “more secure, but less convenient”: “More secure” in that it does not involve storing your stuff on what is essentially someone else’s computer/server; can be less convenient, especially if (to avoid ransomware-related data loss) the external hard drive is kept separate from the computer, except when performing backups; hardware cost of the external hard drive; etc.  One can mitigate the possible loss of the device by storing it in a fire-proof safe --- but that negatively impacts convenience.

 

HTH



#3 bobyboy

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Posted 06 December 2023 - 04:45 AM

Thanks for the reply.

 

I have a spare remote Hard drive that I can use.



#4 wee-eddie

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Posted 06 December 2023 - 06:05 AM

Just a comment: Lucky that BB has  an external HDD.

 

The annual cost of Cloud Backup can be prohibitive, if you have a fair number of files. 

 

Also, read the T&Cs of some of the "Free" Offerings. Some, allow them to access, and use, any of your stuff, that they chose!



#5 MoxieMomma

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Posted 06 December 2023 - 08:28 AM

Hi, @bobyboy:

 

So, it sounds as if you want something to back-up locally, automatically, onto a USB external hard drive?

 

Is that correct?

 

Be aware that keeping that external HD mounted (attached) to your computer 24/7 (so that the backup software can work continuously), while convenient, does pose a slight risk of data loss, should you be the victim of ransomware. All drives on your network/system could end up being encrypted, including the data backup drive.

 

Options may depend on what version of Windows you are running (7, 8/8.1, 10 or 11).

 

Be that as it may, here are some comparisons (NOTE: Do NOT purchase or download ANY paid software from any site until you have researched your purchase. This is offered ONLY for information, NOT as an endorsement of any vendor or their product. Some online reviews can be biased. And there is NO one, single, BEST application to suit everyone – each has its pros and cons.)

 

https://www.lifewire.com/free-backup-software-tools-2617964

https://www.pcworld.com/article/407021/best-windows-backup-software.html

https://www.techradar.com/best/best-free-backup-software

https://www.pcmag.com/picks/best-backup-services

 

HTH



#6 bobyboy

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Posted 07 December 2023 - 02:50 PM

Thanks all for your replies.






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