Hi, Can anyone recommend a good piece of free backup software? I've a friend who is not too computer literate who isn't backing up their important files. I've got them an external USB HDD but I need a way for them to click on a shortcut and their documents are copied to the HDD. I know this can be done with xcopy and similar but I was wondering whether there was anything free out there which will provide some feedback / error logs in case of errors. I'm not talking about much data here (my documents, video, desktop etc; the user profile). It would also be easier to add folders too, as things change, if there was something simple designed for the job. Thanks
Windows 10 has a built-in tool called File History that does exactly what the OP requested. Even the old Backup and Restore (Windows 7) can be setup to do what was asked. No need to download and install any third-party tools. No need for the clicking of shortcuts either as they both use the Task Scheduler to do their jobs.
File History is the first thing, that ransomware removes, it is better to use a cloud file history, thus a real backup software connected to the cloud.
In over 20 years of using Windows I've never once gotten infected by malware. I never use third party backup software either and I stand by my recommendations. Being on the cloud doesn't make a solution any more real than an offline solution. It just makes it different. Which allows me to make an addendum. Use Onedrive to backup important files/folders. Between Onedrive and File History or Backup and Restore (Windows 7) you have a built-in, free and effective set it and forget it solution.
I've only had 1 case of malware. That was due to my grandson who at the time was 6 years old. Other than that I use a WD 8 TB USB3 ext. drive to cover all my needs. I don't play with anything. I don't have time to play anyways. If the malware happens again. Fine, I fix it. My C drive only has my Winbloze Insider. So reloading it don't take that long at all.
File History is the first thing, that ransomware removes, it is better to use a cloud file history, thus a real backup software connected to the cloud.