Cloud file backup and storage - Dropbox (2024)

FAQs

Is Dropbox enough for backup? ›

Most cloud storage platforms, including Dropbox, have a degree of useful backup protection for files. However, files in cloud storage aren't automatically protected to the degree that they would be with a full backup.

Files stored in the cloud are protected from threats like device failure. So if your laptop stops working suddenly, you'll be able to continue working on a document as soon as you can access another PC.

Incomplete Data Protection: Dropbox will only backup the data that you ask it to and will only support certain applications like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace. This leaves a substantial portion of your data unsecured and vulnerable to data loss.

When you store your files to Dropbox, your files are synced across your devices and accessible in real time. With Dropbox Backup, your folders and files from your computer or external hard drives* are automatically backed up to the cloud and you can quickly recover your content if something goes wrong.

Rest easy – we've got your back. Dropbox enables you to back up your files, photos and videos to keep them safe and easy to recover – no matter what happens to your hardware.

That means the original files and any backup copies are vulnerable to theft, fires, floods and other proximate dangers. If you're using an external hard drive for backup, the best way to make sure your files are protected from all major risks is to back up both your computer and your EHD with cloud backup.

Typically, hackers can gain access to your data or systems through vulnerabilities in the cloud infrastructure or user error of some type (whether malicious or non-intentional).

Cloud storage solutions are designed for accessibility while backup solutions are primarily intended for restoring lost or stolen data. Users of cloud storage will be accessing and managing files in real time.

Is Dropbox secure for backup? ›

Does Dropbox encrypt your files? Yes. Dropbox files at rest are encrypted using 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). In fact, Dropbox is designed with multiple layers of protection to keep your files secure, above and beyond this encryption.

If you are looking for an affordable cloud service provider, Google Drive offers a better plan, but if you need more space due to large volumes of digital assets, then Dropbox is a better choice.

The biggest drawback of Dropbox security is the absence of zero-knowledge encryption in its personal accounts. This means Dropbox and its employees hold the encryption key for your account, and their staff can access your data anytime without your knowledge.

Dropbox Backup stores your files separate from your shared files, so you won't have to worry about overwriting your emergency backups. One-time setup keeps files stored across devices—like your computer and external drive—safe in one place.

Google Drive is a free cloud storage service from Google and is the best alternative to Dropbox. It provides 1 TB of storage space for free and comes with 15 GB of additional free storage space. It also comes with automatic photo backup and a powerful search feature that lets you find your files easily.

Backing up full-resolution copies to cloud storage can give you peace of mind. Dropbox can keep your photos safe in several ways: Camera uploads — Photos from your phone or tablet will be automatically backed up to Dropbox.

Click Let's get started (computer) or Back up [drive name] (external hard drive). Check the boxes next to the folders you'd like to back up. Click Set up or Back up. If you're on a Mac, click OK when prompted to give Dropbox permission to access your folders.