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Server backup software is a specialized tool or system designed to capture and store copies of the data contained within a server. This ensures that in the event of any unforeseen data loss scenarios — whether from system failures, accidental deletions, malware, or any other disruptions — there’s a backup available from which the data can be restored.
To help you navigate the intricacies of data protection for servers and similar machines and sort through the many available options, we picked the top six server backup software solutions that have been making waves in 2023.
Each of these has been handpicked based on its efficacy, features, and user reviews. We also explore the quintessential features that make a server backup software stand out and, most importantly, guide you on choosing the one that aligns best with your organizational needs.
- Acronis Cyber Protect: Best for comprehensive data protection (Read more)
- IDrive Server Cloud Backup: Best for cloud-centric backup (Read more)
- Carbonite: Best for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) (Read more)
- Veeam Data Platform: Best for virtualized environments (Read more)
- Backblaze B2 Cloud Storage: Best for cost-effective cloud storage (Read more)
- N-able Cove Data Protection: Best for enterprise data protection (Read more)
Top server backup software comparison
Navigating the complex realm of server backup solutions can be daunting, given the myriad of options available. To simplify your decision-making, we’ve compiled a comparative table highlighting the key features of the top six server backup software for 2023.
This at-a-glance resource will provide insights into each software’s capabilities, helping you pinpoint the solution best suited for your business needs.
| Data backup types | Data deduplication | Disaster recovery | Security | Starting price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acronis Cyber Protect | Incremental, differential, and scheduled backups | Yes | Yes | Anti-malware, anti-ransomware, anti-cryptojacking | $85 for one year license |
| IDrive Server Cloud Backup | Automatic, scheduled, and manual backups | Yes | Yes | HIPAA, SOX, GLBA, and SEC/FINRA compliance; 256-bit AES encryption; optional private key | Basic plan is free; $9.95/month for IDrive® Personal for one user with multiple machines |
| Carbonite | Automatic, continuous, and scheduled backups | No | No | Ransomware scanning, alerting, and remediation | $24.00/month for Carbonite Safe® – Core for up to 25 computers |
| Veeam Data Platform | Forever forward incremental, forward incremental, reverse incremental | Yes | Yes | HIPAA, SOX, GLBA, and SEC/FINRA compliance; 2FA; end-to-end encryption | Contact sales for pricing; available in enterprise editions, universal licenses, and managed services |
| Backblaze B2 Cloud Storage | Automatic, continuous, and scheduled backups | Yes | Yes | HIPAA, SOX, GLBA, and SEC/FINRA compliance | $6/TB/month Pay-As-You-Go pricing structure |
| N-able Cove Data Protection | Automatic, scheduled, and manual backups | Yes | Yes | HIPAA, SOX, GLBA, and SEC/FINRA compliance; 2FA; end-to-end encryption | Contact sales for custom pricing |
Jump to:
- Key features of server backup software
- How to choose the best server backup software for your business
- How we evaluated server backup software
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Acronis Cyber Protect
Best for comprehensive data protection
Acronis Cyber Protect is an all-in-one cybersecurity solution that merges data protection and cybersecurity. It boasts features like backup, disaster recovery, anti-malware, antivirus protection, vulnerability checks, and patch management. Tailored for businesses of all sizes, it safeguards against cyber threats and data loss.
Overall rating: 4.75/5
- Cost: 4.75/5
- Core features: 5/5
- Customer support: 4/5
- Ease of use: 5/5
- Supported systems: 5/5
Pricing
- Acronis Cyber Protect Standard: $85 for a one-year license for one workstation.
- Acronis Cyber Protect Advanced: $129 for a one-year license for one workstation.
- Acronis Cyber Protect Backup Advanced: $109 for a one-year license for workstation.
- All plans have the option to select workloads such as workstations, servers, virtual machines, virtual hosts, and Windows Essentials.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to install, manage, and create backups or clone disks. | Expensive for small companies. |
| High functional range, reliable, and easy to deploy and manage. | Some features, such as forensic backup and memory dump, may seem like overkill for small businesses. |
| Provides a full suite of data protection and cybersecurity capabilities. |
Features
- Backup and disaster recovery, remote assistance, and auto discovery of machines.
- Safely test new software, drivers, system updates, and settings with the option to revert to the previous configuration.
- Excellent defense against both recognized and unidentified malware, encompassing ransomware, cryptojackers, and attacks without files.
- Behavioral analysis and dynamic detection rules that combat any emerging threats.
For more information, read the full Acronis review.
IDrive Server Cloud Backup
Best for cloud-centric backup
IDrive Server Cloud Backup is a cloud backup service tailored for businesses with server needs. It provides automatic data backup, unlimited storage, file versioning, and remote file restoration. One of the standout features of IDrive Server Cloud Backup is its automatic data backup. This ensures that businesses don’t have to manually back up their data, reducing the risk of human error and data loss.
Overall rating: 4/5
- Cost: 4.25/5
- Core features: 4.05/5
- Customer support: 4.25/5
- Ease of use: 5/5
- Supported systems: 1.75/5
Pricing
- Basic: Free; 10GB storage.
- IDrive® Personal: $9.95/month; 5TB to 50TB; one user, multiple computers.
- IDrive® Team: $9.95/month; 5TB to 40TB; five computers, five users.
- IDrive® Business: $49.95/month; 1.25TB to 50TB; unlimited users, multiple computers, including servers, Exchange, SQL, NAS.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Meets compliance mandates such as HIPAA, SOX, GLBA, and SEC/FINRA. | The user interface may require an adjustment period. |
| Features IDrive BMR, an onsite solution for bare-metal disaster recovery. | Initial backups can be resource-intensive, though resource usage can be adjusted. |
| Supports cloud replication, transferring server-stored backups to the cloud. |
Features
- Supports backup and restoration for a wide range of servers and virtual machines, including MS SQL, MS Exchange, Sharepoint, Oracle, Microsoft 365, VMware, and Hyper-V.
- Offers both sector-level and file-level backup options for comprehensive computer protection.
- Includes IDrive Express, a data shuttle service, available free thrice a year for swift business data backup.
- Adheres to the highest security standards with 256-bit AES encryption and an optional private key.
Carbonite
Best for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs)
Carbonite, with its cloud-based infrastructure, promises not only security but also ease of use for its users. One of the most appealing features of Carbonite is its promise of unlimited storage. This unlimited storage capability ensures that users don’t have to constantly manage or delete older backups to make space for new ones.
Overall rating: 3.75/5
- Cost transparency: 3.75/5
- Core features: 3.25/5
- Customer support: 3.75/5
- Ease of use: 5/5
- Supported systems: 5/5
Pricing
- Carbonite Safe – Core: $24.00/month; 250GB storage; up to 25 computers, external storage, and NAS.
- Carbonite Safe Server Backup – Power: $50.00/month; 500GB storage; 1 server plus up to 25 computers.
- Carbonite Safe Server Backup – Ultimate: $83.33/month; 500GB storage; unlimited servers and up to 25 computers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers a user-friendly online backup service with unlimited storage. | Each subscription covers only 25 computers; additional licenses are needed for multiple computers. |
| The installation and configuration process is straightforward and intuitive. | External and network drive backups are limited to premium accounts. |
| Features easy-to-understand email reporting for backup sets. |
Features
- Prioritizes security and privacy with robust encryption and the option for users to manage their private key.
- Comes with a wide range of plugins, including backups for SQL Server, Exchange Server, and Cloud-to-Cloud.
- Automated backups require minimal management.
- Ensures minimal data sharing, keeping user information private.
Veeam Data Platform
Best for virtualized environments
Veeam has meticulously crafted a platform that addresses not just one, but a myriad of data-related needs. From safeguarding data to ensuring its seamless accessibility and transfer, Veeam stands as a beacon of reliability and innovation. Complementing this is the platform’s replication capability, which allows for real-time data duplication, ensuring that there’s always a secondary copy available for immediate restoration.
Overall rating: 3.75/5
- Cost transparency: 4/5
- Core features: 4/5
- Customer support: 4/5
- Ease of use: 4/5
- Supported systems: 1.75/5
Pricing
- Enterprise-grade editions (contact sales for pricing):
- Foundation: Hybrid backup and recovery features.
- Advanced: Foundation features plus monitoring and analytics features.
- Premium: Advanced features plus recovery orchestration features.
- Veeam® Universal License (VUL): Per-workload license for public cloud, enterprise apps and databases, VMs, physical storage, and NAS.
- Managed backup and DR services: Designed for public cloud, Microsoft 365, off-site servers; comes with Veeam-verified expert assistance.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Renowned for its top-notch customer support. | The initial setup can be cumbersome, requiring a package download and installation. |
| Automated backups are efficient and require minimal oversight. | Transitioning from a Windows server to a Linux server necessitates converting the existing model. |
| Offers a superior user experience compared to competitors. |
Features
- Ensures availability across all cloud, virtual, Kubernetes, and physical workloads.
- Features multi-layered security, including SIEM integration, an AI-driven malware detection engine, and round-the-clock monitoring against malicious activities.
- Allows instant recovery of individual files, application objects, and large-scale orchestrated recovery of production workloads.
- Supports a broad spectrum of platforms, such as Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft SQL Server, SAP HANA Cloud, and many more.
Backblaze B2 Cloud Storage
Best for cost-effective cloud storage
Backblaze B2 stands out not just for its affordability but also for its commitment to providing a seamless and secure storage experience. The platform places a strong emphasis on data security, as evidenced by its robust data encryption feature. This ensures that users’ data remains shielded from prying eyes and potential breaches.
Overall rating: 3.5/5
- Cost transparency: 3.75/5
- Core features: 3.75/5
- Customer support: 3/5
- Ease of use: 5/5
- Supported systems: 1.75/5
Pricing
- Pay-As-You-Go: Flexible pricing starting at $6/TB/month including free downloads, per API call pricing, Data by Mail, and product support.
- Annual capacity bundle: $1,625/250TB/month including features from the Pay-As-You-Go plan.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Features an intuitive cloud storage and backup solution. | Limited sharing and syncing capabilities. |
| Offers an option to receive an external disk containing all your data via mail for local restoration. | Installation requires the OS to be updated to its latest version and can be time-consuming. |
| Comes with a command-line tool for terminal-based data uploads/downloads. |
Features
- Provides cost-effective plans with unlimited storage.
- Grants 10GB of cloud storage space for free.
- Ensures multi-layered security with AES encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), and SSL/TLS encryption.
- Guarantees high data durability, boasting 99.999999% (eight 9’s) durability annually.
N-able Cove Data Protection
Best for enterprise data protection
At the heart of N-able Cove’s offerings is its commitment to seamless data protection. The platform’s automatic data backup feature ensures that businesses can set and forget, with the confidence that their data is continuously being backed up without the need for manual intervention. This not only reduces the risk of data loss due to human error but also ensures that the most recent data is always available for recovery.
Overall rating: 3/5
- Cost transparency: 1.75/5
- Core features: 4/5
- Customer support: 3.75/5
- Ease of use: 4/5
- Supported systems: 1.75/5
Pricing
- Pricing available upon request.
- N-able promises up to 78% overall sales compared to other solutions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides 24/7 support with knowledgeable staff. | Pricing structures can be ambiguous. |
| Installation and configuration are straightforward. | Some users might find N-able Cove Data Protection lacking in advanced features. |
| Represents a cutting-edge solution in backup technology. |
Features
- Ensures data protection with robust encryption.
- Features an intuitive and user-friendly dashboard.
- Allows archiving of multiple historical data points.
- Boasts top-tier monitoring and alerting capabilities for all users.
Key features of server backup software
Server backup software plays a pivotal role for businesses and organizations, serving as a bulwark against data losses from unforeseen adversities, unintentional deletions, and malicious cyber onslaughts.
In this section, we explore the essential features that a server backup software should have, from data backup types to reporting capabilities.
Data backup types
Backup solutions are not one-size-fits-all. A wide array of backup types cater to different organizational needs.
- Full backups: This method captures every byte of data in the system. This is the most comprehensive backup type but may not be the most efficient choice for frequent backups.
- Differential backups: It focuses on storing data that has been modified since the last full backup, striking a balance between comprehensiveness and efficiency.
- Incremental backups: This method only records data changed since the most recent backup, be it full or differential. This kind of backup is typically quicker and consumes less storage but requires a more intricate restore process.
Regularly balancing between these backup types can lead to both comprehensive data protection and efficient resource utilization, catering to both immediate recovery and long-term archival needs.
Data deduplication
Data redundancy can often lead to wastage of storage space and increased backup durations. Data deduplication emerges as a solution to this problem. By eliminating redundant copies and ensuring that only unique instances of data are stored, deduplication conserves vital storage space.
Beyond mere conservation, this process optimizes the backup process, drastically reducing the amount of data that needs to be moved, which is especially beneficial for organizations with vast data repositories. By reducing redundancy, businesses can achieve significant cost savings in storage infrastructure and also ensure faster recovery times, especially vital in mission-critical operations.
Automation and scheduling
In the dynamic world of IT, consistency is key. Manual backups, though possible, are prone to human error and oversight. Automated backups eradicate such inconsistencies.
Advanced backup software allows for the setting of schedules, ensuring that data is backed up at regular intervals, be it daily, weekly, or monthly. This automation ensures data protection remains a background process, minimizing operational disruptions and human intervention.
Automated backups eliminate human error, ensuring that no critical data is overlooked and that backup processes align with organizational workflows without causing disruptions.
Encryption
The importance of data security cannot be overstated. Whether data is stationary or in transit, encryption serves as the guardian against unauthorized access. Robust backup solutions employ state-of-the-art encryption protocols, ensuring that even if data is intercepted, it remains unintelligible to malicious actors.
This feature, combined with solid access controls, guarantees the sanctity and privacy of the backed-up data. Beyond data protection, encrypted backups can assist organizations in meeting various regulatory compliance standards, thus avoiding potential legal and financial repercussions.
Disaster recovery
While backups ensure data safety, disaster recovery ensures organizational functionality. Beyond mere data restoration, a disaster recovery strategy guarantees the rapid resumption of services post disruptions.
Whether it’s a natural calamity, hardware failure, or a cyberattack, having a structured disaster recovery plan means that the organization can bounce back with minimal downtime. A well-structured disaster recovery plan, backed by comprehensive backups, ensures minimal downtime, thereby safeguarding an organization’s reputation and bottom line.
Security
Today’s cyber landscape is replete with threats. From ransomware to data breaches, the need for fortified security measures has never been more pressing. Leading backup solutions embed multiple security layers, such as 2FA or multi-factor authentication (MFA), granular access controls, and regular vulnerability assessments.
These features work in tandem to protect both the backup data and the backup processes from potential security threats. Holistic security features protect not just against data breaches but also prevent potential ransomware attacks, ensuring that organizations can confidently restore uncontaminated backups.
Retention policies
Data retention isn’t solely a matter of organizational preference; often, regulatory stipulations dictate how long certain data must be retained. Tailored backup software allows for the configuration of retention policies, dictating the lifespan of backed-up data.
Whether it’s for compliance or internal policy, these features ensure that data is neither retained unnecessarily nor purged prematurely. Customizable retention policies ensure that organizations can automatically manage data lifecycles, aligning with both internal policies and external regulations.
Storage types
The realm of data storage has seen monumental advancements. Modern server backup solutions support a spectrum of storage types:
- On-premises storage: Localized storage within the organization.
- Cloud-based storage: Using online platforms for data storage.
- Hybrid storage: A blend of on-premises and cloud-based storage solutions.
A flexible backup software that offers various storage types ensures that organizations can adapt their backup strategies as their needs evolve, be it expansion, remote work demands, or budgetary changes.
Reporting and monitoring
Staying abreast of backup statuses is vital. Ideal backup software offers intricate reporting and instantaneous monitoring utilities. Such features ensure administrators receive timely issue notifications and can confirm successful backup completions.
Regular monitoring and detailed reporting facilitate not just efficient troubleshooting but also support internal audits and compliance checks, upholding organizational integrity.
How to choose the best server backup software for your business
Choosing the best server backup software for your business isn’t just about checking off a list of features. It requires a nuanced understanding of your organization’s specific needs, the nature of your industry, and how those align with the features and insights discussed previously.
Below are the aspects that you should consider when choosing among the numerous server backup software in the market:
- Understand your business needs: Different industries have unique requirements. For instance, a healthcare organization might prioritize encryption and retention policies due to regulatory standards like HIPAA. In contrast, a media company with vast amounts of data would likely emphasize data deduplication and storage types to manage sizable multimedia files efficiently.
- Balance between comprehensive and incremental backups: While it’s essential to have full backups, remember that differential and incremental backups can save both time and resources. Analyze your data turnover rate and how often you need to access your backups to determine the right mix.
- Prioritize security in sensitive industries: If your business deals with sensitive information, such as in the finance or legal sectors, security features like multi-layered protection and robust encryption should be at the forefront of your selection criteria.
- Scalability for growing businesses: For startups and businesses expecting rapid growth, look for server backup solutions that offer flexible storage options. Hybrid storage solutions, combining on-premises and cloud storage, often provide the scalability needed to adjust to growing data needs without incurring prohibitive costs.
- Review reporting and monitoring capabilities: For industries where real-time data access is crucial, such as e-commerce or IT services, immediate alerts and comprehensive reporting can be invaluable. It ensures that any issues are promptly identified and addressed, minimizing potential downtime.
- Consider industry-specific solutions: Some server backup software solutions are tailored for specific industries, offering customized features that address unique needs. For instance, certain solutions might be better suited for the tech industry, with built-in tools for software code backup and versioning, while others might cater to the retail sector with integrated POS system backup capabilities.
Use case: Choosing the right server backup software for a small business
In this section, we will explore the needs of a hypothetical small business, its server backup needs, and the features that meet its operational demands.
A small local organic bakery with an e-commerce platform needs dependable server backup software to store its critical data. This bakery, although primarily operating from a single physical location, has an expanding online presence. Their data concerns encompass:
- Customer orders
- Inventory management
- Website data
- Financial records
- Customer database
Considering these needs, the ideal server backup software should possess:
- Cost-effectiveness: An affordable solution that provides essential features without overburdening the budget.
- User-friendly interface: Easy setup and management without needing specialized IT knowledge.
- Hybrid storage mix:
- Local (on-premises) backups for quick data access.
- Cloud backups for additional security and redundancy.
- Automation: Ensures consistent data protection, especially during busy hours, without manual interference.
- Data deduplication: Essential for managing frequent inventory updates and daily transactions without consuming excessive storage.
- Robust encryption: A must-have to secure both stored and transmitted data, especially given the sensitive customer data from online sales.
- Quick disaster recovery: In the event of issues like server crashes or cyberthreats, fast recovery ensures business continuity.
- Mobile access: Allows the bakery owner or manager to monitor backups and receive alerts on the go.
By emphasizing these features, the bakery can ensure a protective umbrella over its data, facilitating smooth operations and future growth.
How we evaluated server backup software
In our endeavor to discern the best server backup software for businesses, we meticulously evaluated several key features and functionalities. Our assessment was rooted in understanding the intrinsic value of these features and how they cater to contemporary business needs.
Here’s an insight into our evaluation criteria:
Data backup types – 15%
Different backup types serve varied purposes. Whether it’s full, differential, or incremental backups, understanding how a software solution caters to these needs provides insight into its flexibility and adaptability.
The ideal software should allow businesses to strike a balance between comprehensive data protection and efficient resource utilization.
Criteria winners: Acronis Cyber Protect, Veeam Data Platform
Data deduplication – 15%
Redundancies can strain storage resources. A software’s ability to effectively identify and eliminate duplicate data determines its efficiency. Deduplication ensures optimal storage usage and faster backup processes, making it a pivotal feature for businesses with extensive data sets.
Criteria winner: IDrive Server Cloud Backup
Automation and scheduling – 13%
In today’s fast-paced business environments, manual backups are impractical. The capability of software to automate and schedule backups denotes its user-friendliness and reliability. Regular, automated backups guarantee consistent data protection, even during peak operational times.
Criteria winner: Acronis Cyber Protect
Encryption – 12%
With rising cyber threats, data security during backups is paramount. Robust encryption standards ensure that data remains inaccessible and protected both in transit and at rest. This feature underlines a software’s commitment to data privacy and security.
Criteria winners: Acronis Cyber Protect, Backblaze B2 Cloud Storage
Disaster recovery – 10%
Beyond mere backups, the ability to swiftly recover after unexpected events is crucial for business continuity. The disaster recovery capabilities of software determine how quickly a business can bounce back, preserving its reputation and operational integrity.
Criteria winners: Veeam Data Platform, N-able Cove Data Protection
Security – 10%
A holistic approach to security, encompassing multi-layered defenses against varied threats, is indispensable. From unauthorized access prevention to malware defense, the security measures of server backup software are indicative of its robustness.
Criteria winners: Acronis Cyber Protect, NinjaOne Server Backup
Retention policies – 10%
Data retention is both a matter of organizational need and, often, regulatory compliance. Software that allows businesses to customize retention policies ensures that data is managed appropriately, aligning with both internal guidelines and external regulations.
Criteria winners: Acronis Cyber Protect, Backblaze B2 Cloud Storage
Storage options – 10%
As businesses evolve, so do their storage needs. The flexibility of software in offering diverse storage options, from on-premises to cloud-based, showcases its adaptability to changing business scenarios.
Criteria winners: Acronis Cyber Protect, Carbonite
Reporting and monitoring – 5%
Transparency in backup processes is essential for managerial oversight and proactive issue resolution. Comprehensive reporting and real-time monitoring features offer businesses a clear view of their backup status and health, aiding in informed decision-making.
Criteria winners: Acronis Cyber Protect, Carbonite, Veeam Data Platform
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is server backup software, and why is it essential for businesses?
Server backup software is a tool designed to create duplicate copies of data stored on servers. This safeguard ensures that, in the event the primary data is compromised, a backup remains available for recovery.
For businesses, this is paramount. Not only does it protect vital information from threats like hardware malfunctions or cyberattacks, but it also ensures operational continuity, regulatory compliance, and peace of mind.
Essentially, server backup acts as a safety net, allowing businesses to operate without the looming threat of potential data disasters.
How do I choose the right server backup software for my organization’s needs?
Selecting the right server backup software involves a multifaceted approach. Start by thoroughly assessing your organizational data needs. Consider the nature, volume, and sensitivity of the data. Ensure the chosen software prioritizes security, especially if handling confidential or regulated data.
The software should be scalable, catering to both current needs and future growth. User-friendliness and supportive customer service are invaluable, ensuring smooth operations. Lastly, align your choice with your budget, and seek recommendations, perhaps from peers or industry reviews, to make an informed decision.
What are the key features to look for in server backup software?
When scouting for a software backup server solution, several features emerge as essential, such as:
- Data backup types: Look for software that offers various backup options, such as full, differential, and incremental backups.
- Data deduplication: This feature optimizes storage by eliminating redundant data.
- Automation and scheduling: It should allow automated backups at scheduled intervals for hands-free operations.
- Encryption and security: Robust encryption protocols ensure data security during storage and transmission. Additional security features like multi-factor authentication enhance protection.
- Disaster recovery: Beyond just backing up, the software should facilitate quick and efficient data recovery in case of catastrophic events.
- Retention policies: It should allow customization of how long backups are retained, helping in aligning with regulatory and organizational needs.
- Flexible storage options: Consider software that offers both on-premises and cloud storage solutions or a hybrid of both.
- Reporting and monitoring: A comprehensive overview of backup operations through real-time monitoring and detailed reports is essential for proactive management.
Bottom line: Protecting your business data with server backup software
From financial records to customer information, every byte of data is a building block that underpins operations, decision-making, and future growth. However, the evolving threat landscape, with hardware failures, human errors, and cyberattacks, can jeopardize this critical asset.
Choosing the right server backup software ensures that businesses have a resilient safety net in place. This not only supports uninterrupted operations but also instills confidence in stakeholders, whether customers, partners, or investors. In essence, server backup software isn’t just a tool; it’s a comprehensive insurance policy for a company’s digital lifeblood, warranting peace of mind in an unpredictable digital landscape.
In addition to backing up your data, you’ll want to make sure it’s protected. That’s why we identified the best server security tools to keep your organization’s critical data safe.
