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How are my files transferred? |
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Your files are transferred electronically via the Internet. Before your files are sent they are encrypted. This process ensures that no one but you - not our staff or your BackUpStream partner - has access to your data. |
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Can the BackUpStream company see my data? |
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No. Your data travels in encrypted form directly between you and your partner. |
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Can I buy one copy of BackUpStream and use it on all of my computers? |
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No. BackUpStream requires a unique BackUpStream ID for each computer it's used on. An ID is provided for each copy of BackUpStream purchased. BackUpStream is so affordable, there's really no reason you shouldn't purchase all the copies you need. |
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How secure are the encrypted files? |
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BackUpStream encryption is based on Triple-DES. Triple-DES is a form of encryption that can only be broken using "brute force," an approach that requires formidible computing resources. |
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How Secure is Triple-DES? |
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DES, or Data Encryption Standard was adopted in 1977 as a U.S. Government Standard. Later, it was strengthened by encrypting with 3 "rounds" per data chunk. There are 7.2 x 10^16 keys in 56 bit DES and BackUpStream uses 112 bit Triple DES. Rest assured your data is safe. |
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Can I store my data on different computers? |
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Yes. Each computer will need its own BackUpStream software and unique ID. You can store data on as many computers as you want. What could be more secure than 2 or more different backup sites? |
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Can I store data between two of my own computers at the same location? |
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Yes. If there is a TCP/IP network connection between the computers, then BackUpStream can use it. |
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How long will my backups take? |
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BackUpStream's block technique is designed to keep your backup time
as short as possible. The time will vary depending on the speed of the Internet connection and the amount of data. Only the parts of your
file(s) that have changed are transferred, greatly speeding up the backup process. |
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Does my computer become slow when a backup session is in progress? |
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No. Your computer runs as normal with maybe a little more hard-drive activity. For example, on a 1.3GHz Celeron-based computer running WinXP Home, servicing an incoming partner connection takes approximately 16% of your computer's horsepower. |
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How will I know my Backups are successfully stored? |
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When a successful Backup is completed the tray icon will be "clean" and not flashing. This is your verification that BackUpStream is working properly and your data was transferred exactly. In addition, a recent activity log is always easily visible. |
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If I add a few lines to a huge document, is the entire document transferred again? |
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No. BackUpStream transfers only your changes, making the backup operation very fast. |
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Where are my files stored? |
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Your data can be stored on any computer that has an Internet connection, BackUpStream installed, and a partner that is agreeable. You set up your partner relationships, we don't. Only you and your partner know where your data is and only you can retrieve it. Of course, for the ultimate backup protection you can store your data with more than one partner. |
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How often can I backup my data? |
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As often as once per hour, or on demand when you use the"Backup Now" button. Of course, once you determine a schedule you never need to think about the security of your data again. BackUpStream is automatic and hassle free. |
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What happens if a file is open when BackUpStream is scheduled to run? |
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BackUpStream, like any backup software, should only be used when your files are not in use at the time of the backup. We recommend that you schedule them during normal down-time for your computer. For example, at lunch or at night. If no other applications are running, you may hit the "Backup Now" button when you choose. |
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What happens if a BackUpStream session is interrupted? |
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For less than optimal connections, BackUpStream has built-in retries. But if a BackUpStream transmission is interrupted, no permanent harm is done. The next time a connection is made, the backup will proceed from where it left off. If there is a problem, you will be alerted. |
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Are there any other charges? |
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No. Only BackUpStream provides offsite and encrypted storage for a single, one-time cost. BackUpStream is the ideal value solution for your backup needs. |
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I already backup using disks and tape. Why should I change? |
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Experts agree that the best backups are offsite and encrypted. With disks and tape, this takes time and someone to remember to do it on a consistant basis. BackUpStream removes this hassle, making it the most reliable and safe way to backup data. Even so, BackUpStream provides the ability to store data on CD / DVD, flash drive, or USB-connected storage. |
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Can someone I host gain access to my computer or my files? |
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Absolutely not. BackUpStream uses a challenge-and-response mechanism for authentication based on a shared secret (your passphrase). The passphrase is never transmitted across the internet. |
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Could I get a virus from a BackUpStream partner? |
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Absolutely not. Since their data is encrypted, it is statistically random and meaningless to your computer. Even if the partner's computer did have a virus, once it is encrypted it is harmless to any computer. |
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Can my partner see what I'm storing? |
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No. Not only is your data encrypted, even the original filenames are removed from potentially prying eyes. Also, remember that YOU choose your partners. If you can't trust your friends, who can you trust? |
