Tech Trends: Google Drive Can Backup Your Whole Computer - Should You?

Google is always on the verge of something. When you think about it, they changed how we absorb information now that they’ve made “googling” a noun. The same goes for their hand in technology. From their Chromebook to the many phones that run on the Android platform, Google is a force.

In true Google fashion, they are revving up their already raved-about Cloud-based file storage and sharing solution. Google Drive is launching a new Backup and Sync feature. Its goal is to not only backup files or pictures one at a time, but your entire computer seamlessly.

Google is always trying to turn technology on its head, in a good way. But does that mean it’s a good service for your business?

Google Drive Options

Continuity is the key feature that separates Google from the leagues of other backup solutions. As of June 28th, Google Drive, for both PCs and Macs, will add Backup and Sync. The major update is the continuous backup feature.

The continuous backup feature eliminates the drag and drop process of most Cloud backup services. Selected folders on your computer sync and will update instantly with no extra steps.

If you have less than 15 GB stored on your computer, you could potentially backup your entire computer for free as Google offers 15GB of space for free.

Business and Enterprise Users Beware

There are a few things to consider before you jump headfirst into this new service.

First, this service is for consumer uses only. That means that the service is not configured to meet business standards or needs. Google is urging business owners to wait as they are working on an enterprise version. The service will likely be available later this year.

If you must ignore Google and jump into the pool, consider the limited storage and download time. How much storage are you going to need to backup your business on Google Drive? A free Google Drive account comes with 15 GB of free storage, but that won’t be nearly enough for your whole company.

Even if you upgraded to a paid version -- if you lost your entire system how long would it take you to retrieve all your data back?  Also, logistically speaking, are you taking the time to set this up on each workstation? And will each user have to backup to a separate Google Drive, causing your company data to be all over the place?

Its ability to be configured to a server is unknown, mostly because Google doesn’t want you to use it that way. 

And the last thing to consider, again besides the fact that Google is telling you this is a no-no, is if this is a better solution than other backup options available. While Google is a well-known brand, this is their first attempt at deploying an automatic backup solution.

As with any new technology you want to integrate into your company, it's best to consult with your IT services provider and decide together what is best for your business.

If you ask us, wait for their enterprise version to launch and allow for a testing period. save yourself the headache of “make it work” in this consumer-based version. If Google is your go-to guy, consider their enterprise version has a solid track record for businesses.

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