BackBlaze online backup service has only one version which provides unlimited storage for only $5 per month or 50 dollars per annum. The approach this backup service uses online is a little unusual in that they presume that the users would like to backup all their personal files – documents, music, pictures, videos, and many more. So there is an option that allows the user to the files or documents to be backed up. The interface provides support for 11 languages and file restoration can be delivered from the internet or for a fee. This can be sent to users on DVDs or a USB drive.
Security
BackBlaze security is excellent. They use double encryption procedures involving 128bit AES encryption and a private key to confirm your information is totally safe.
Archive Features
BackBlaze uses continuous backup to make certain alterations to your files which are immediately archived. You can additionally setup scheduling or manually run backups whenever you require.
Active files can be archived, but server databases such as SQL server or Exchange Server are not supported. You can backup USB drives but not network drives. File versioning is available up to 45 days for an number of versions of files.
Restore Features
Restores are done from the online portal and can be sent in 3 ways: A zip file directly to any device you wish – this is free. The second option is to DVD if you are restoring less than 4Gb of data – this will cost you $99. Or if you are restoring a lot of files, they will send you a plug-in drive and charge you $189.
These options seem quite sudden but most Internet Backup Providers do not even offer these options.
Control and Analysis
A central control panel is provided on the online site which allows management of multiple accounts. Within the client program you can see information on files waiting to be backed up as well as overview graphs of what has already been archived.
Interface
The web and desktop interfaces are clean and easy to use. Information is provided in a clear and concise way and there are a reasonable amount of options without there being a salvo
Device Support
Current BackBlaze supports MAC and PC platforms only.
Customer Support
There is no direct support, e.g., phone or live chat. Yet there is email support which is quickly replied to and the tech support team is friendly and well-informed. There is also a Blog full of helpful information. And they also have a free trial which lasts 2 weeks, so there time to assess the service before committing your whole $5 per month!
Ease of Use
BackBlaze is very simple to use, if you leave it at the default settings, BackBlaze will backup all your personal data from all your local drives automatically. If you need to alter things then the options screens are well laid out and straightforward to navigate.
Cost
Initial setup – free
Monthly Fee – $5 / month / device
Annual Fee – $50 / year / device
Initial permitted storage amount – unlimited
Cost of additional storage – n/a
Cost of additional devices / PCs / users – $5 / month / device
Referral Program – No
E-billing facility – Yes
Conclusion
One can be up and running with BackBlaze in less than 5 minutes. The experience of configuring BackBlaze was similar to jumping on an excitable horse: The problem is not getting started; the problem is trying to keep up! When BackBlaze is installed it immediately scans your locally connected drives, finds your personal data such as documents, pictures, music, etc. and immediately starts to back them up for you. It’s comparable to having your very own over-eager Jeannie desperate to get the job done.
If you are looking for a straightforward online backup solution at a fixed price then BackBlaze is well worth considering.
Visit website at http://www.backblaze.com