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WHICH? REVIEWS: Backup software

Since backing up is one of those jobs that we tend to put off (like cleaning out the garage or doing the recycling) we set the bar for ease of use especially high.

We look for tools that will allow you to make a copy of your information for safekeeping with the minimum of fuss, and importantly effort, on your behalf. We also pay special attention to how easy it is to recover information, should the worst happen; after all, there's no point making a copy of your digital family album if you don't know where to find it, or how to get it back.

Our results are a mixed bag. Our Best Buys are exceptional but several overcomplicate what ought to be a simple procedure. Others fail to offer all the tools we'd expect from a complete backup solution.

A comprehensive backup product should make it easy for you to make incremental daily or weekly copies of your files (file backup) and enable you to make a complete copy or mirror-image of your hard disk drive in the event of a complete hard disk drive failure (disaster recovery).

To find which backup software we recommend, take out a free trial to www.which.co.uk. Below, we explain the features to look out for and answer some frequently asked questions.

Features explained

Supported media

Not every backup program will support every storage medium. Surprisingly, some don't even support CDs or DVDs. Commonly supported types are floppy disk, network (or Internet) drive, hard disk, USB memory stick, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R/W, DVD+R/W.

Maximum file size

Whereas most software will back up the vast majority of files, some might choke on multi Megabyte or even Gigabyte files. Before you buy, make sure you know the maximum size (and then some) of the files that you intend to back up (such as videos) and ensure that the software supports it.

Support options

Typically, software will offer Help files, online FAQ , forums and webforms. Of course, if you have just seen your life's work disappear from your computer, you may not feel inclined to wait for a return email if your back up software refuses to play ball. Telephone support and a calm voice is often much more preferable.

Verification

The software can double check that it is saving the data accurately as it goes along. It's no good finding out after the event that the data files were corrupted.

Encryption

Encryption may be important to you if you are backing up sensitive data. By backing up unencrypted data onto a handy CD, you are making it much easier for a thief to steal your secrets

Frequently asked questions

Computers are much more reliable these days, do I really need backup software?

It depends how much you value what's on your computer. Your computer is most likely a treasure trove of information, precious family photographs, videos of special events, your album collection, the family's account, addresses of friends and family. So imagine how you'd feel if one day it all just disappeared?

Like any insurance, backing up can feel like a waste of time and money - until you need it.

How often should I back up?

Ideally once a week. Once again, it depends on how much you are willing to risk losing vital data.

Do I have to remember to back up?

A lot of programs will do it automatically for you at a preset time. Check whether the one you choose has this option and whether it can back up directly to a CD/DVD left in a drive or to a remote online storage site.

Where should I back up?

Software is only one part of the equation. You will also need physical media on which to store your hard disk. If you only want to make copies of a few crucial files then you could burn copies of these to rewriteable CDs or DVDs.

If you're looking to make a complete copy of your hard disk you may wish to invest in an external large capacity USB hard drive. It's wise to keep the physical backups of your computer separate from the PC itself; drives can break, or get stolen, just like the drive inside your computer.

Alternatively, you can transfer files securely to an online backup service using your broadband connection. There is usually a monthly or annual charge for these services.

What is the difference between file and full back up?

A full backup will copy the entire contents of your hard disk - including programs like Microsoft Office. With possibly over a million files and tens of GBytes of data, it takes a while, even with the fastest software and hardware. Luckily you shouldn't need to do this too often and will only be needed in case of a catastrophic disk crash.

Far more likely is the odd file that gets corrupted or deleted for whatever reason. Files and folders should be backed up much more regularly but should only take minutes. A competent backup program will allow you to select the files you want backed up or even choose the most recently amended itself for backup.

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