Data backup is one of the most important things you can do to protect your data. As we create more digital content for work and personal use, it’s critical that we have a solid backup solution in place.
There are tons of backup tools out there, many of which have exciting new features this year. I’ve tested out several to find the top 5 new data backup tools that are worth trying in 2023.
1. Duplicati
Duplicati is a free, open source backup tool that performs incremental backups. It supports backing up files and folders to local drives, network drives, cloud storage services like OneDrive and Google Drive, and more.
Some key features of Duplicati:
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Incremental backups – Backs up only new/changed data since the last backup. Saves time and storage space.
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Encryption – Encrypts data during transfers and storage using AES-256 encryption. Helps keep your backups secure.
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Deduplication – Detects duplicate data blocks and only stores one copy. Improves storage efficiency.
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Scheduling – Set automated backup schedules for daily, weekly, or monthly backups.
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Versioning – Keeps previous versions of changed/deleted files for easy restores.
I’ve been testing Duplicati for a few months and it’s become my goto for local and cloud backups. The incrementals and deduplication save a ton of time and space.
2. Restic
Restic is another open source backup program focused on security. It supports the usual destinations like local drives, network shares, and cloud services.
Some notable features:
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Encryption – Encrypts all backup data with AES-256 encryption. Uses a key derived from your passphrase.
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Deduplication – Saves space by detecting duplicate data.
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Versioning – Maintains history of file changes.
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Verification – Checks integrity of backups to ensure restores will work properly.
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Portable format – Backups are stored in a portable format allowing restores on any platform.
I really like Restic’s focus on security through its backup encryption and verification checks. It gives me confidence my data is safely backed up in a usable format.
3. Sync.com
Sync.com is a cloud backup and file sharing service with enhanced security and privacy features.
Here are some reasons why I find Sync.com worth checking out:
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End-to-end encryption – Files are encrypted locally before syncing to the cloud. Only you control the keys.
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Zero-knowledge privacy – Sync doesn’t have access to your files or encryption keys.
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File versioning – Stores unlimited previous versions of your files and folders.
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Remote wipe – You can remotely wipe files from lost devices.
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Share folders – Securely share folders with other Sync users without losing control of your data.
Sync.com brings together backup, file sync, and sharing with some of the best cloud privacy protections out there. If you want maximum security, this is a top contender.
4. Dropbox Backup
Dropbox recently added backup capabilities to its popular file sync and share platform.
Some key backup features now offered by Dropbox:
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File history – 30 days of version history for files. Easy online restores.
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Deleted file recovery – Restore accidentally deleted files for up to 180 days.
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Ransomware protection – Block known ransomware apps from accessing Dropbox.
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File locking – Lock important files to prevent unwanted changes.
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Rewind folder – Restore an entire folder back to a previous state.
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Offline backup – Back up desktop folders while your computer is offline.
Dropbox leverages its file sync technology to provide robust backup capabilities. As a long-time Dropbox user, I’m finding its new backup tools very convenient.
5. Acronis True Image
Acronis True Image is a popular Windows backup software with comprehensive features.
Key capabilities include:
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Full system backup – Back up entire operating system, programs, settings. Allows full system restores.
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Incremental backups – Quickly backup new and changed files since the last backup.
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Mirror imaging – Exact point-in-time copies of partitions or disks for system clones.
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Mobile backup – Apps to back up mobile devices and synchronize to home computer.
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Cloud backup – Built-in support for backing up to Acronis Cloud.
I like that Acronis True Image provides both full system imaging for disaster recovery, plus continuous backup of files for daily protection. It’s a robust backup toolkit for Windows users.
Conclusion
Protecting my ever-growing digital life is really important to me. After testing many new backup tools this year, I’m excited about options like Duplicati, Restic, Sync.com, Dropbox, and Acronis True Image. They provide great features while being easy and flexible to use. I suggest trying them out to fit your specific backup needs. Proper backups give me peace of mind that my data is safe!
