Carbonite Safe Backup

Alright, so Carbonite Safe Backup is a cloud backup service that’s pretty straightforward. You install it, and it just works in the background, which is cool if you don’t want to think too much about backing up your stuff. It’s one of those set-it-and-forget-it deals. But here’s the thing: if you’re not on a super-fast internet connection, the initial backup could take a while. It’s not a quick fix if you’re in a hurry to back up a ton of data right off the bat.

One thing I appreciate about Carbonite is its unlimited storage for personal plans. You don't have to worry about how much stuff you’re backing up, which is a relief if you've got a lot of photos, documents, or whatever else cluttering up your hard drive. But, and it’s a big but, you’ll need to shell out more cash if you want to back up external drives. That feels a bit limiting if you’re someone who keeps a lot of data on external hard drives.

The mobile app is pretty handy, letting you access your files on the go. It’s not groundbreaking, but it does the job. Just keep in mind that the mobile app doesn’t let you back up your phone’s data, which could be a bummer if you were hoping to consolidate everything in one place. So, it’s more about accessing your files than protecting your phone. If you’re cool with that, then no worries.

Security-wise, Carbonite uses encryption, which is basically a must-have these days. They also offer private encryption keys if you’re feeling extra cautious. It means you’re the only one with access to your data, but it also means if you lose the key, you’re out of luck — your data’s gone. It’s a tradeoff between security and convenience, so it's something to think about before you go all in.

Overall, Carbonite Safe Backup is a solid choice if you want a hassle-free, unlimited backup for your computer. Just be ready for some compromises, like the speed of the first backup and the extra cost for external drives. If you’re looking for something basic and reliable, it’s worth considering, but if you need more flexibility or features, you might want to look around a bit more. Hope this helps you figure out if it’s the right fit for you!