Data Backup refers to the process of copying the entire/partial computer data from hard drives or disk array to other storage media, so it may be used to restore the original after a data loss event due to human error or system failure. Whether it’s for personal, home, or small business use, we recommend you choose a piece of suitable backup software.

The cheapest solution for data loss is to backup data in advance. If you have never backed up the lost data before, please browse our Data Recovery & File Repair to retrieve your lost data, but that is much more expensive.

We have filtered and classified the best data backup software (including freeware and shareware) into several sub-categories, and in each sub-category page, we have listed the differences in features between freeware and shareware, as well as some important and useful tips. So please take a bit time to follow our guide, and you can easily reach your target software.

Important Tips 1. If possible, please put the target data and backup data on different physical media, for example, prepare two hard drives, and one is exclusive for storing backup files.
2. Windows OS comes with a built-in Windows Backup tool, and most feedbacks are negative, but you can still have a try if you want. (How-Tos)

All the products in this category are classified into the specified sub-category. At each sub-category page,
1. We list all the best freeware
2. We list all the popular shareware
3. Freeware vs. shareware
4. We write some useful data backup tips hoping that will be helpful in your backup process

Select a product based on the backup method Most products support multiple backup methods. This table can help you choose not only a proper one, but also a suitable backup method.

Backup Method	Pros	Cons	Applicable
Offline Backup Backs up data to local or offline storage devices only	- Cheap - Fast backup - Large storage	- Damage or theft of storage device can cause data loss	Backup for a large amount of data (like videos or database) with one-time cost Ideal for users with tight budget
Online Backup Most backs up data to the cloud	- Convenient and fast backup solution - Allows remote access to backup files - Convenient file/folder sharing	- Exepnsive for backing up large amounts of data - Slow backup for large amounts of data	Backup for a small amount of data files across multiple devices, e.g. photos, memos, emails or other files in portable devices.
Network Backup Backs up data to Local Network Locations via Local Area Network (LAN)	- Cheap - Fast backup - Supports a great variety of devices	- High-level technical skills are required for accessing the files through the Internet, much more complicated than using cloude storage	Backs up important data for home or business
Disk Image/Drive Clone Backs up the entire disk into an image file or copies the entire hard drive to another drive	- Backs up data in time - The most reliable backup solution - Can be used to migrate data between devices	- Expensive - High-level technical skills required	Mainly used for enterprise data storage and disk array technology
Cloud Storage/File Sync A complete solution for cloud storage, file sync and backup	- Easy to use - Allows remote access to backup files	- Basic backup features only - The least reliable backup solution - Expensive	Backup for a small amount of personal files, e.g. office files, a few photos, emails etc.

Beside the above common backup software, there is also some software for Server Backup Exclusive for backing up servers. Expensive, comprehensive in technology, the most reliable backup solution.

Invalid Exclusive for backing up all email items, including emails, tasks, RSS feeds, settings, rules, email accounts etc.

In addition, if you are familiar with data backup, you can select a product more accurately based on the backup type
Full Backup Differential Backup Incremental Backup Mirror Backup