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Online Cloud Backup FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Online Cloud Backup

    Can I back up data from an external hard drive?

    Some online backup services will allow you to back up data from an external hard drive, while others may not. Mozy, for example, guarantees that it can back up any drive that Windows recognizes as "fixed." Operating systems consider hard drives "fixed," regardless of whether they are internal or external. DVD/CD-ROMs, media cards and some thumb or flash drives are not considered "fixed," and cannot be backed up. Carbonite, on the other hand, does not guarantee support for external hard drives, although we have heard conflicting reports from users as to whether or not it is actually possible. If backing up an external hard drive is important to you, Mozy is probably your best online backup option.

    Return to Online Cloud Backup FAQs


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Top Online Backup Services

Carbonite
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Bottom line: Excellent and comprehensive online backup with easy remote file access, exclusive discount
MyPCBackup
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Bottom line: Unique combination of unlimited backup, file syncing across computers, cloud storage and external drive backup
Mozy
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Bottom line: Great low-cost online backup with exclusive discount; can back up external drives
SugarSync
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Bottom line: Best combination of online backup, cloud storage and multi-device sync; free 30-day trial
SpiderOak
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Bottom line: Most secure, customizable, streamlined file backup for advanced users
LiveDrive Backup
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Bottom line: Simple and cheap backup that lets you use unlimited storage space for one computer; nice service for backing things up on the go
SOS Online Backup
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Bottom line: Packed with new features, includes 5 computers and local backup; nice interface, savvy mobile apps, and social media backup
IDrive
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Bottom line: Solid backup with a lot of configurability; no mobile app access or file sharing
ElephantDrive
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Bottom line: Solid online backup with file sharing and the ability to back up to 3 computers, though the interface is not the best
Norton Online Backup
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Bottom line: Fast and transparent browser-based backup with file sharing; infrequent backup schedule
IBackup
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Bottom line: Geared towards businesses; Exchange and SQL backups; compliance for financial, medical companies
Dropbox
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Bottom line: Well-priced solution for file sharing and collaborative work; not true automated backup solution

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