Carbonite

Carbonite Online Backup Review

Carbonite stands as a prominent player in the online backup service arena, offering a straightforward and reliable solution for safeguarding digital files. This review examines its functionality, user experience, performance, and overall value proposition.

Functionality and Features:

Carbonite's core function is automated, secure cloud backup. Users install a small desktop application that continuously, or on a defined schedule, backs up designated files and folders to Carbonite's remote servers. The initial setup is guided, allowing users to easily select which data needs protection. Once configured, the process largely operates without requiring further user interaction, embodying a 'set it and forget it' philosophy. This automated approach is a significant advantage for users who are not inclined to perform manual backups or who might forget to do so.

Key features like automatic backup, cloud storage, and encrypted backups are standard offerings in this market, but Carbonite implements them effectively. The encryption is robust, protecting data privacy both during transmission and while at rest in Carbonite's data centers. File versioning is a crucial feature for recovering from accidental edits or ransomware, and Carbonite provides this capability, allowing users to revert to previous file states.

Remote access to backed-up files is available via a web browser or mobile app, which is convenient for accessing important documents when away from the primary computer. The restoration process is also designed for simplicity, typically involving selecting files or folders through the desktop client or web interface and initiating a download.

User Experience:

One of Carbonite's strongest points is its user-friendly interface and overall ease of use. The installation process is straightforward, and the desktop client is clear and intuitive. Selecting files for backup is as simple as checking boxes next to folders. Status updates regarding backup progress are readily available, providing transparency.

The web interface for remote access and file restoration is also well-designed and easy to navigate. Even users with minimal technical expertise should find Carbonite accessible. The focus on simplicity makes it a good choice for home users and small businesses without dedicated IT staff.

Performance:

Backup and restore speeds are highly dependent on the user's internet connection and the amount of data being transferred. Initial backups can be time-consuming, particularly for large datasets. However, incremental backups of changed files are typically much faster. Carbonite's performance is generally competitive with other consumer-grade backup services.

Security:

Security is paramount for any backup service, and Carbonite employs strong encryption protocols. Data is encrypted client-side before being sent to the cloud, and it remains encrypted in storage. While Carbonite holds the encryption keys for standard plans, offering easy restore, they also offer options for private encryption keys for users who require maximum privacy and security, though this comes with the responsibility of managing the key.

Value Proposition:

Carbonite offers various pricing plans, including options for unlimited backup on a single computer (for certain plans) and plans tailored for multiple computers, servers, and HIPAA compliance. While not the cheapest option on the market, the pricing is competitive, especially considering the ease of use and the availability of unlimited plans. For users who value simplicity and reliability and have a significant amount of data on a single machine, the value proposition is compelling.

Conclusion:

Carbonite is a solid and dependable online backup solution, particularly well-suited for individuals and small businesses seeking an automated, easy-to-manage service. Its strength lies in its user-friendliness and the 'set it and forget it' nature of its backup process. While performance is standard for the industry, the peace of mind provided by automated, secure backups is a significant benefit. The different plan options cater to a range of needs, and the availability of unlimited backup on certain plans is a key differentiator. For those prioritizing ease of use and reliable data protection without the need for complex configurations, Carbonite is a highly recommended option.