Several unique terms and phrases describe the features of software we review on this site, some easier to grasp than others. This list briefly defines terms relevant to Data Backup Software.

Ratings

Feature Set

We evaluate backup software tools and abilities. We rate backup software feature sets by comparison; backup software with few options will rank lower than a package with multiple, customizable options.

Ease of Use

Our evaluation of backup software user-friendliness. We rate backup software from a beginner's perspective. If a computer novice can use the backup software with ease, navigate simply, backup data and restore data successfully, then we rank the software high.

Backup/Restore

An explanation of how well the backup software performed its duties. If the backup tool copied exactly what we requested and the restore tool returned data to all the correct locations, the backup software ranked well.

Help/Documentation

We judge the backup software help files, help documentation and customer service. Backup software help files and service that exceeded our expectations received top marks.

Type of Backup

Full Backup

The first backup in a series (both incremental and differential backups must start with a full backup). A full backup allows you to backup the entire hard drive: files, folders, and applications (or just a select portion of your hard drive). A full backup resets the archive bit. Everyone who values data stored on a computer should perform a full backup weekly.

Incremental Backup

Used to backup only files that have changed since the last backup, whether it was a full backup or an incremental backup. The archive bit is reset with an incremental backup.

Incremental backups are fast and require less data storage space. Restoring data takes longer since you must restore the last full backup and each incremental backup performed since the last full backup. Incremental backups are ideal for those who require frequent backups yet have minimal backup storage space.

Differential Backup

Used to backup only files that changed since the last full backup, but a differential backup does not reset the archive bit. Differential backups take longer and require more storage space, but restore time is faster because you only need to restore the last full backup and the most recent differential backup.

Differential backups are attractive for those with ample storage space and little patience for lengthy restores.

Backup Capabilities

Individual File Backup

The software backs up only the individual files you select.

Files--In-Use Backup

The software can backup files that are in use. This feature is useful to anyone who requires several backups each day.

Individual Folder Backup

The backup software backs up not just the data, but all the folders and file locations. Without this tool, reorganizing data after restoring would be difficult.

Complete System Backup (Image Backup)

(also called Image Backup, Backup Image, Drive Image and Hard Drive Image) - Backs up the entire hard drive, including the operating system, registry, drivers, software applications and data files-in short, your whole computer system.

One-Click Drive Backup

A convenient tool that makes a full system backup with one button click.

Address Book Backup

Allows you to backup all the names and email addresses stored in your email address books.

Registry Backup

Backup software allows you to backup all your registry settings and files only, without backing up the rest of your computer system.

Favorites Backup

Backup software allows you to backup all your Internet favorites, including favorite website addresses and search engine keywords.

Backup Scheduling

Backup software allows you to create a backup schedule-perfect for busy people who don't have time to backup regularly. Typically, data backup software allows you to schedule backups at various intervals, including: during the boot up or shut down, hourly, daily, weekly, monthly or even yearly.

Output Features

Backup to Hard Drive

The backup software allows you to backup a file, a folder or your entire hard drive to a separate hard drive.

Backup to Removable Media (CD,DVD,Zip,etc.)

(such as a CD, ZIP Drive, DVD, etc.) - The software will allow you to backup a file, folder, or the entire hard drive to removable media. For example, you can backup your files to a blank CD and backup your hard drive to a ZIP Drive (or another removable storage device).

Backup to FTP Locations

The backup software will allow you to backup a file, folder or the entire hard drive to an FTP location. With this method, the backup can be accessed online.

Advanced Features

Backup Password Protection

Backup software allows you to add a password to your backup so you can restrict access.

Backup Password Encryption

Backup software encrypts your password so it can't be hacked or accessed by force.

Data Compression

Backup software allows you to compress the backup file so you can store more data in the same location.

File Filtering

Backup software will allow you to include and exclude certain files or file types from your backup.

Backup Verification

After the software performs a data backup, it compares and verifies the backup to the original as a self-error check.

Drive Spanning

Backup software allows you to use multiple CD/DVD drives or hard drives for unattended backups.

Event Logs/Reports/ Catalog Backups

Backup software runs an error-check to reveal if the backup and restore were successful. If there were errors during backup, the software stores them for easy reference (useful for troubleshooting and for avoiding similar hang-ups in the future).

Burning Software Included

Backup software includes the burning software necessary to create backups to blank CDs or DVDs.

CD/DVD Erase Capability

Backup software has a feature that allows you to erase rewritable CDs and DVDs.

Create Bootable Backup

Backup software can make your backup bootable. Usually this tool is available in backup software that creates drive images and disaster recovery disks (a backup of the system in case of a crash).

Restore Features

Restore File Paths

Backup software will restore original file paths when restoring data even if the backup is restored to a different location; allowing you to find restored data easily.

Restore Individual Files/Folders

Backup software allows you to restore specific files or folders without restoring the entire system.

Restores Hard Drive Images

Backup software allows you to restore your entire system using a backed up hard drive image.

Restores to a Separate Location

Backup software allows you to restore data to a different location; you can backup data from multiple computers and store on a separate computer.

Replaces Older Files and Duplicates

Gives you the choice to replace or keep older files and duplicate files during restore.

Technical Support

eMail Support

Backup software technical support team has an email address for queries.

Automatic Updates

Backup software upgrades are available online.

Help Documentation

Most backup software manufacturers offer a user manual to walk you through backup tasks step-by-step.

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