1. Is Carbonite secure?

We take security and data privacy very seriously. Carbonite uses a combination of encryption techniques, similar to those used by banks, to safeguard your data so that only you can see your files.

2. How much does it cost?

First, you can try Carbonite for FREE - no credit card required. After your trial, Carbonite costs only $49.95 per year no matter how much you need to back up. Restoring files is free, and there are no hidden charges.

3. What if I have files that I don't want backed up?

No problem. When you install Carbonite you can choose to back up the contents of 'My Documents' and your Windows Desktop or choose to select only certain files/folders for back up. At any time thereafter, you can right-click on any file or folder to include or exclude it from your backup

4. Will Carbonite slow down my computer?

When Carbonite is first installed, it scans your computer looking for files that need to be backed up. This initial scan may slow down your computer for a short time, 10 to 15 minutes at most. Carbonite does this only once. After that Carbonite will automatically go to sleep when you're using your computer so as not to slow it or your Internet connection down.

5. How long will it take to back up all my stuff?

Backup speed is limited by your DSL or cable company. Most home connections are capable of backing up only 2-3 GB/day. A typical initial backup could take anywhere from 2 to 10 days. However, subsequent backups typically take only minutes since Carbonite backs up only new and changed files. You can continue to use your computer without interruption during the initial backup since Carbonite will automatically pause if there is keyboard or mouse activity.

6. How will I know when my backup is complete?

A yellow lock icon in your system tray indicates that your initial backup is still in progress. The lock icon will turn green when your backup is complete.

7. What happens to my backup when my trial expires?

Carbonite will not retain backups for trial users who choose not to purchase a subscription. We will remind you prior to your trial's expiration. If you decide not to purchase a Carbonite subscription, our current policy is to delete you data after 15 days, giving you time to change your mind. However, after expiration, you must purchase a subscription before you can recover your data. If you uninstall Carbonite during your free trial and do not reinstall, your backup will be deleted automatically in 7 days.

8. Do trial backup music and video files?

During your free trial, audio (such as mp3s and iTunes music) and video files are not backed up by default. You can manually add these files to your backup by right-clicking on the file or folder and selecting 'Back this up' from the Carbonite menu.

When you purchase a subscription, your audio files will be added to your backup automatically. Video files will not be added automatically but you can add as many video files to your backup as you'd like. You can back up a folder full of videos by right-clicking on it and selecting 'Back up video files in this folder.'