Freeware Backup Software

Freeware backup software refers to computer programs which primary purpose is to assist the user in the process of creating and restoring backups, but that are also free to download or to get on other distribution media. Some backup software will be free if used on a home computer but will require a commercial license if it’s going to be used in a business environment.

Freeware is usually distributed by software vendors to create up-sell oportunities, which means that they will also offer a more complete program that you can get for a fee, so after you’ve used the freeware one and enjoyed it, you might consider getting the commercial one which will usually have commercial support and a stronger set of features.

There is freeware backup software for every single computer platform (or operating system), you can find some nice freeware backup programs for Windows based computers like Datasafe Backup or Fbackup, both programs are powerful enough and have enough features to be compared with some of the most expensive commercial applications. For Mac OS computers, there are also products like ArchiveMac or PsyncX that will get the job done. For those Linux (and other Unix variants like BSD) users, there are lots of free tools, as a matter of fact it’s hard to find commercial products for Linux systems as most of the Linux universe is built around the free and open source ideals. Rsync and it’s graphic front ends are some of the best backup software for Linux (and even better than software for other platforms) you’ll ever find.

Now, it’s important to download freeware only from reputable websites, as they will make sure that all files are virus and adware free, it’s even safer that downloading straight from the vendor’s webiste as there have been cases of not-so-ethical software vendors that will give away what seems like great programs because they’re also spreading adware (software that will keep displaying ads in your computer) and making a fortune out of it. It’s also wise to read other users’ reviews and to try the software before you decide to use it to safeguard your data, as with most freeware programs, the publisher or vendor can’t be held responsible if the software does something wrong and your data is lost, which is exactly what we are trying to prevent by doing backups. When you’re paying for software the vendor has to provide support, fix bugs and release updates as needed, however with freeware products you’re on your own.