Automated cloud backup

AI summary

Backblaze holds a narrow lead over iDrive for automated cloud backup that runs quietly in the background. While Backblaze is favored for simple continuous protection, Microsoft OneDrive surfaces when users seek built-in free solutions.

2. IDrive — Best for multiple devices

Backs up multiple computers and other supported devices under one account and storage quota. A good choice for a household with several computers, or if you want both cloud and local backup options.

Pricing varies by storage allowance, plan and introductory offers.

Visit IDrive ·www.pcworld.com+1

3. Microsoft OneDrive — Best for Windows and Microsoft 365 users

Automatically syncs supported folders such as Desktop, Documents and Pictures. Files are accessible across your devices, and some Microsoft 365 plans include additional storage.

Best for: Everyday documents, spreadsheets and photos that you want available everywhere.

Setup instructions ·support.microsoft.com+1

4. Google Drive — Best for Google users

The desktop app syncs selected folders and lets you access files from other devices. Storage is shared across Google Drive, Gmail and Google Photos.

Best for: People who already use Gmail, Google Photos and Google Docs.

Get Google Drive ·www.tomsguide.com+1

5. Dropbox Backup — Best for simple file protection and sharing

Offers automatic computer-folder backup alongside Dropbox's file synchronization and sharing features. Worth considering if you already use Dropbox for work or collaboration.

Visit Dropbox Backup ·www.tomsguide.com+1

How to set up automatic backups

For most people, these steps are enough to get started.

1. Choose your backup service. For a full computer backup, start with Backblaze or IDrive. For ordinary folders and cross-device access, start with OneDrive or Google Drive.
2. Install the desktop app on your computer and sign in.
3. Select the folders to protect. Include Documents, Desktop, Pictures, Videos and any important work or personal folders stored elsewhere.
4. Enable automatic background backup or syncing. Check whether it runs continuously or on a schedule, and allow it to finish its initial upload.
5. Test a restore. Recover a sample file through the service's restore process to confirm that your backup actually works.

One important distinction: syncing versus backup

Cloud syncing and cloud backup are not the same thing.

• Syncing keeps files consistent between devices. If you delete or corrupt a synced file, that change may propagate to other devices.
• Dedicated backup keeps recoverable copies of your files and may offer longer version history or recovery options.

For important files, I recommend keeping a separate external hard drive backup too. The commonly recommended 3-2-1 approach is three copies of your data, on two types of storage, with one copy off-site.www.techradar.com+2

Let me narrow it down to the best setup for you

1. What device do you want to back up?

Windows PC

Mac

Multiple computers

Phone and computer

2. What do you want backed up?

Everything on my computer

Documents and photos only

Selected folders and work files

A full system image for disaster recovery

3. Approximately how much data do you have?

Under 100 GB

100–500 GB

500 GB–2 TB

Over 2 TB

Not sure

4. What's your budget?

Free if possible

Around $5–10/month

Around $10–20/month

Best protection regardless of price

[Recommend my setup]

If you want to narrow this down, tell me:

• Are you using Windows, Mac, or a mix of devices?
• Roughly how much data do you need to back up (e.g., under 500GB vs. multiple terabytes)?
• Do you prefer a pure disaster-recovery archive or a cross-device syncing tool?

I can share user consensus from r/DataHoarder on Reddit regarding the reliability and recovery speeds of these specific services.

My practical picks by scenario

• You have one Windows or Mac computer and want the least hassle: Backblaze. It automatically backs up files without requiring much configuration.Backblaze
• You have several computers, phones, or external drives: IDrive is often the better fit because it is designed around broader device coverage.PCWorld
• You run a small business: Look at CrashPlan, IDrive Business, or similar business-focused services rather than consumer plans.G2A
• You mainly want photos/documents synced across devices: A cloud storage service may fit better than a backup service.

A good backup setup usually follows the 3-2-1 approach: keep three copies of important data, on two types of storage, with one copy off-site (such as in the cloud).PCWorld

If you tell me how many devices you need to back up, how much data you have (GB/TB), and whether you use Windows, Mac, iPhone, or Android, I can narrow it down to a specific choice.