Computer Tricks and Secrets

Short answer: cloud (online) backup automatically copies your files to secure servers over the internet, so if your computer is lost, stolen, broken, or hit by ransomware, your data is safe off-site. For a whole computer, an unlimited-per-device service is best value; for a few key files, cloud storage works. Here is how it works, what to look for, and how to set it up. How cloud backup works You install a small app that runs quietly in the background, continuously copying your chosen files (or your whole drive) to the provider's encrypted servers. If disaster strikes, you download your files back, or the provider can even mail you a drive for large restores. It is the off-site copy that protects you against fire, theft or a dead disk. What to look for Feature Why it matters Unlimited (per computer) Best value for lots of data Version history Recover from ransomware/mistakes Automatic/continuous You never forget to back up Private encryption Only you can read your da...

Short answer: pick an online backup service based on what you are protecting: for a whole computer with lots of data, an unlimited-per-computer service is best value; for syncing files across devices, cloud storage is better. The two are different tools. Here is how to choose and how backup fits a complete plan. Backup vs cloud storage (know the difference) Online backup Cloud storage Purpose Protect everything automatically Sync and access chosen files Examples Backblaze, IDrive, Carbonite Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive Best for Disaster recovery of a whole PC Working across devices Backup runs quietly and copies your whole machine; storage is for files you actively work with. Many people use one of each. How to choose an online backup Data amount: if you have hundreds of GB, look for unlimited-per-computer pricing (like Backblaze) rather than per-GB. Devices: some plans cover multiple computers and external drives (IDrive is generous here). Versioning: good ba...