Easy Backup: BackupKey

BackupKey is an easy small-business backup solution. BackupKey is not Internet backup--it's actually a very small hard drive that attaches to your computer (a local backup).

So why is it easy?

1. It's small. Backup is a really small drive about 4x5 inches and half an inch thick. You can take it anywhere easily.

2. BackupKey only needs one USB cord to connect it to your computer. There are no power cords or adapters! It gets all the power it needs through the USB cord that attaches to your computer.

3. BackupKey doesn't require you to install software. When you plug it into your computer, software that is built into the BackupKey automatically starts. To perform a Backup you simply need to plug in the Backup Key, and click "backup".

4. BackupKey works with multiple computers without any configuration. So, say you've got three PC's in your small office, BackupKey can backup all of them and keep all the data properly segregated. The same goes for multiple users on a PC--just plug in BackupKey which recognizes the PC as well as the user--and the backup is performed appropriately.

Because BackupKey is designed for a narrow purpose, it's pretty easy to operate. You can specify which folders you want to back-up and easily incorpoate them into a push-button backup regimen. The built-in help is also good. It makes it clear that BackupKey is primarily for making backups. Making an archive, where you may (for example) create copies of files for each of the last 7 days, is diffrent. BackupKey can make archives, but this isn't as automagic as making simply back-ups.

All in all it's a good solution if you are looking for a straightforward local back-up solution. The BackupKey drive can also be used as an auxillary hard drive.

My only gripe: BackupKey comes with a plastic box to hold the drive and cord. It's okay, but it'd be nice if there was a soft padded case. Snapping the plastic box shut with the cord inside isn't always super easy like backing up with BackupKey is.