Review: Webroot Secure Backup service

Secure Backup is Webroot’s first foray into backup software - previously the company has concentrated on security products. Webroot acknowledges that backing up is such a chore that many of us simply don’t bother, so Secure Backup is intended to be a click-and-go affair targeted at home and small-business users.

The focus is on web backup, which has numerous benefits over a traditional, on-site approach.

First and foremost, there’s no messing about with blank DVDs or external hard disks. Backups are also generally more robust and secure (fire, theft, damaged media aren’t an issue), and you can access your data from almost anywhere; you can share it, too.

Data is encrypted before being sent, is uploaded via 128-bit SSL, then encrypted again at the server. Used with a strong password, your data benefits from triple-layer protection.

Secure Backup’s cost depends on how much storage you require. It starts at £14.95 per year for 2GB and goes up to £49.95 for 50GB. With most broadband upload speeds being relatively slow, your initial backup is likely to take some time.

Afterwards, though, the software will enter incremental mode, backing up only files that have changed or been added. Usefully, when you back up files that already exist, all older versions are automatically retained. Also, individual files can be tagged for backup as soon as they change.

If required, you can make traditional, local backups, and there are few options to play with. The interface is also uncluttered and simple to use.

Webroot’s tariffs are reasonable, although rival service Carbonite provides unlimited storage for just $49.95 (£27); there are also numerous free online backups services available. But being so easy to use, Webroot’s offering is a solid choice that won’t disappoint.