We cannot stress backing up your computer enough these days. When you find a program that makes it as easy and convenient as Backup4all, there is no reason to put it off. Go to http://www.backup4all.com and view this program yourself. It’s a very nice program to use and very easy to navigate.
I received the Professional edition for review. On the Website is a list of what is available in each edition. There are three editions Mirror, Classic and Professional. You do not have to buy the functionality that you do not need. Just click on “Feature Matrix” on the Website to see the differences.
The icons on the toolbar are fairly explanatory and the names are available by hovering the mouse above it. The learning curve was quick and easy.
With the help of the file tree you can see all files that are in the backup you choose, and the new files that will be stored at next backup. You can sort and search this file tree and pick and choose what you wish to backup or restore. You can start the application at Windows startup or minimize it to the system tray. Or preferably run it from the icon under Start/Programs. An idea, keep the icon on your desktop to remind you to backup frequently.
Backup4all is very flexible, allowing you to run almost any backup type or style
you might require. Choose Full Backup, Differential Backup, Incremental Backup, or Mirror Backup. They can be password protected if you choose. I particularly like the feature of the standard ZIP compression. This means your data is not at the mercy of the program itself; you can access it with any zip utility. I unzipped it using WinZip to view the files. Compression runs from none to high–-your choice. It will also span disks from floppies to DVDs. I prefer to back up to an external hard drive. The application comes with its own built in CD/DVD burning support. Just set the destination on CD/DVD and execute the backup item.
The application allows defining multiple backups and saving them for future use. On the main form, you have an overview of all defined backups, organized in groups. You can create shortcuts to any backup item and execute them with a double click from your desktop. The application comes with several predefined backup items: "My Documents", "My Pictures" and "Internet Favorites". You can add your own icons for frequently used backups. There is also a New Backup Wizard that will “hold your hand.”
One convenience I like is the Built-in Scheduler. By using the available
scheduler configurations you can make unattended backups.
The application tests the backup automatically (uses CRC32), making sure that the files have been backed up properly and the backup is safe.
I really like this program and can recommend it to all. It is not expensive for what you receive. The three optional programs run in price from $25.00 to $45.00.
There is a 20% coupon offered with this article for all versions of the software.
Should there be any problems or questions contact Claudiu Spulber
Fran Crane is a member of the CCOKC, co-webmaster and editor of the eMonitor.