Carbonite Review
| features | Carbonite |
|---|---|
| overall | A- |
| capacity | no limit |
| monthly | N/A |
| annual | $54.95 |
| security | A |
| usability | A |
| value | B+ |
| accredited | B+ |
| supported platforms | |
| features & promotions | |
our review
I used Windows Vista to test Carbonite on February 19, 2009.
The installation was quite painless. I went to Carbonite.com and entered my email address, a 6 digit password and clicked on “Start Your Free Trial”. There was a small download and quick install of local software and then a simple wizard setup. During the wizard process there were 2 options: backup up all of my data under my user folder or choose specific files and folders later. I chose to pick later. After the install, I used the file manager and right clicked on my “Documents” folder and chose the “Carbonite” menu item and clicked on “Back this up”. Immediately it added a little round yellow circle to each of the file and folder icons.
| criteria | grade | summary |
|---|---|---|
| security | Carbonite never handles unencrypted data. Carbonite encrypts all files before they leave your PC and use 448-bit Blowfish encryption. It is the strongest commercial encryption on the market. Here’s a link to some additional security info about Carbonite’s security. Carbonite also allows you the option of managing your own encryption keys if you want to be the only one that could ever possibly see your data. They do recommend against it, because if you lost those keys then there would be no way to unlock your data. For some people it may be worth while especially if you have easy access to a safe deposit box and a thumb drive. |
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| usability | The installation of Carbonite was very simple. There are very few decisions to make at installation, but there is enough flexibility to choose what you want backed up. The management interface is extremely simple and when you want to restore you use the native file manager to pick the files to be restored. The tray icon turns green after the initial backup is complete and then Carbonite just keeps on backing up files incremently. |
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| value | Carbonite is a great value if you plan to backup large amounts of data (we’re talking 25GB+). If you only want to backup a few gigs then you pay the same price. Many of the online backup solutions provide a free option that usually allows 1-2 GBs of storage. Some offer additional tiers with different pricing structures. This is a one size fits all program, which removes complexity, but may not be for you if your needs are less. |
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| accreditations | The BBB gives Carbonite a B+ and it looks as though Carbonite has tried to resolve consumer complaints. They have been in business since 2006 and are part of the McAfee Secure Site Program. |
supported platforms
- Windows XP and Windows Vista (standard 32-bit and 64-bit versions)
- Carbonite for the Mac is currently in beta test with anticipated general release in early 2009
features & promotions
- Dots (yellow or green) on files and folders show you the status of your backup at a glance
- Buy ahead and get 2 years of service for just $99.95 (save $5/year)