Backup and Recovery

Data Backup Software Packages

So many data backup software choices, so little time to evaluate them. We've got time-strapped small business owners covered with reviews of some of our favorite software packages for data backup and recovery.

There's no way around it . . . data backup software has to be included on the short list of applications that are essential for your small business.

Most companies go into crisis mode when they don't have access to critical data for even a few minutes. The possibility of losing data forever is fodder for nightmares of epic proportions.

As a small business owner, it's your responsibility to make sure your data backup software package is prepared to offer 100% data storage and retrieval. Although you'll rely on IT personnel to walk you through the process, you will need to be involved to ensure that your solution has the features, benefits and functionality your company requires.

The data backup software market is filled with both effective and not-so-effective data backup solutions. Since you can't possibly evaluate them all, we'll make your job a little easier with reviews of some data backup software packages that we think are worthy of consideration.

• Genie Backup Manager. Genie Backup Manager is a good all-around backup solution that is suitable for most small business environments. In addition to securing customer and business data, Genie also provides backups of emails and Internet settings in an environment that is relatively easy-to-use. Backups run smoothly and can be fully customized, but the downside is that if you want to backup the entire system you have to select each item individually. Cost: About $50.
• NTI Backup Now. NTI Backup tends to be a more comprehensive solution than other products that are offered at this level. To streamline its use, NTI has broken down the process into three easy steps: Selecting what you want to back up, where you want it be archived and the method that will be used to achieve it. The bottom line is that NTI gets a lot done in a way that isn't overly intimidating for novice users. Cost: About $80.
• Norton Ghost. Norton has an established reputation as a data security provider. The Norton Ghost solution is a complete system backup application that can be customized and scheduled for full or partial backups. It's hard to find a better product from a more reliable company at this price point. Cost: About $70.
• Nova Backup. Nova Backup stands apart from the rest of the field as a comprehensive business backup application that is extremely easy to use. One-click full/partial backups, full disk imaging copies, local & offsite backup, an intuitive UI, low cost and other features make it hard to overlook Nova as a viable backup software option. Cost: About $45.

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