If you have been using computers for a good period of time, you have likely built up a huge amount of files on your computer. The OS and software alone can be massive, taking up tons of real estate on your hard drive. Then there are all of the photos, videos and everything else.

At some point, when it comes to backing up your system it will become an issue of where to store these massive backup files. You could continue to purchase larger and larger external hard drives, like I once did, only to eventually outgrow them, or you can seek out an alternative that will make this critical function worry free and automatic.

Disclosure: This review contains affiliate links, if you chose to buy direct you can click here –> Mozy.com

This is where a service like Mozy Online Backups comes in handy. I’ve been using it for many months now and find the results to be fantastic.

What is Mozy and how does it work?

Mozy is a subscription internet backup service that allows you to backup your entire system via an internet connection. It is available for personal and business usage and provides a great deal of flexibility and peace of mind. They have more than 1 million users of their service at the time of this writing.

You simply sign up and establish an account, download the software, select the files to backup, set up your schedule and return to doing what you do best. Yes, it really is that simple. You even get access to a 48 page PDF guide (download).

Levels of service offered

As you can see below, Mozy offers a free service with up to 2 GBs of storage, an unlimited storage version and a Pro version.

Although not listed on the chart, their support assures me that Windows 7 users will have no issues.

This system is really easy to use. Once you configure it, you’re all set. It is pretty much set-it and forget-it.

I must mention that the initial backup can be quite lengthy, depending on the size of that particular backup. Every backup subsequent to the initial one will be over in a matter of minutes.

Here is a shot of the configuration window.

Concerns about internet connection speeds

One of the main concerns for computer users with over the internet backups is the connection speed. Most service providers like cable companies and the like, highlight the download speed which makes people tend to focus on that too much. Using a service like Mozy Online Backups you need to be aware of the upload speed so that your system’s performance is not badly eroded or slowed by the process. This is very important. If you are using a high speed connection from any service provider you will likely be trouble free.

Don’t know what your system speeds are? Here are a couple of cool tools to find out. Go to PC 911 where you can test your speeds online or download the tool to your computer, or check out SpeedTest.net where you will find a really nice interface. I’ve used both but tend to like the latter best.

Additionally, Mozy will test your system during the setup process and report the results, so there is really little to worry about. There are also  “slider” controls available in the configuration panel where you can control the impact upon your computer.

Overall performance

I would recommend this product to any home or small business user. It really is a very good product that does the job and relieves you of worries. You can test drive the package by signing up for the free version which allows you to backup 2 GB of files, or for less than $5 smackers monthly you have the unlimited version.

Limitations

You should be aware that Mozy offers only a 30-day retention of your DELETED files. This should be fine in most cases but something to be aware of.

It should also be noted that Mozy will not restore your Windows operating system, as it takes snapshots of your files.

The free version does not offer a previous version of your files, only the last backup. In other words, each time you backup using the free version, you are overwriting the previous.

These limitations aside, Mozy will suit the needs of most computer users, particularly in the home and small business arena.

Not enough umph for you? There is even a  MozyEnterprise version for the big dogs.

All in all this is a fine product with reliable and secure data transfers. You may want to consider this service before kicking out for that next hard drive that you may outgrow during the next year.

Last look at the positives

• Your files are stored offsite where they are safe from fire, water or other catastrophes.
• Cost of service is inexpensive
• Software offers immense control of when, where and how the backups occur.
• Service offers multiple restore options
• Bandwidth  controls are invaluable for a service like this.
• If you crash without some means of recovery, you will wish you had done something

In all seriousness, do not run the risk of loosing your valuable data to neglect. If you have not installed some reliable system for backing up your system files, check out Mozy today.