SugarSync Review

Syncing All Your Devices And Online Backup Too…

SugarSync from Sharpcast Inc. is an online backup service a little different from competitors such as Mozy and Carbonite. Sharpcast worked on the technology behind SugarSync for four years before they released it in 2008 and it was designed to solve a basic need: to provide seamless backup of your data, syncing it across your various devices and allowing access to your files on whatever device you’re currently using.

If any of you work on multiple computers, you may have experienced the hassle of transferring files from one computer to another. You may have used email, carried around a thumb drive, or maybe used a hosting plan. All these methods are tedious, have their own limitations, and are incredibly inefficient.

Enter SugarSync:

Want to edit a file on your iPhone or iPad? No worries, SugarSync will save it and sync it across your desktop, laptop, and any other machines attached to your account. In fact SugarSync is one of the few services that supports all major mobile platforms, including Android and Apple’s iPhone.

SugarSync shares and syncs your files through the dubiously named “Magic Briefcase”. Anything you place in the briefcase will automatically sync selected data across multiple devices. You can even perform simple edits of files through a web browser, an ability we haven’t seen in any other online backup service.

How SugarSync Works

Step 1: Download

SugarSync was designed to be incredibly easy to use. Simply download the software and select an account URL (This URL will be how you access your account from any web browser).

Step 2: Add Folders

Open the SugarSync Manager and add folders you wish to backup to SugarSync. Once you select these files and click “OK”, they’ll automatically begin syncing with your account online. That’s it – you’re all backed up.

Step 3: Add Other Devices

To Sync with other computers or mobile devices, simply download the software and add folders to your account online. Any changes will be automatically made to all your devices automatically even if they’re not currently online. (The updates will happen when your devices go online.)

Step 4: Flexible Sharing

One great feature SugarSync offers is the ability to send anyone (family, friends, coworkers) secure links to download your files. Forget about size restrictions trying to send large files over email, anyone you send a link to will be able to download your files and even make changes (if you allow it) to files that will then propagate throughout your system of connected devices.

Notable Features

• Stream Your Music

With SugarSync, your iTunes librabry can follow you, wherever you go. Stream your DRM-free music to your other computers or even your iPhone or iPod touch using SugarSync. Because you’re streaming the files from SugarSync and not your home computer, you can still listen to your favorite artists even with your computer turned off.

• Version History

SugarSync automatically saves up to five previous versions of any file (Word and Excel documents, PDFs, pictures and videos) so you can easily revert to an earlier copy. You don’t have to save multiple copies to keep your older versions. And don’t worry about filling up your allotted storage with copies; only the most current version of each file is counted on your online storage quota.

• Flexible Sharing

Rather than just storing your files online securely, SugarSync mobilizes them. Not only can you access your files from anywhere, but you can share them with anyone (friends, family, coworkers). You don’t have to worry about email file size restrictions, just send others a secure link to your files.

• Complete Security

SugarSync takes the security of your data seriously. SugarSync utlizes SSL (secure socket layer) encryption during the transfer and syncing of your data, and when your files are being stored on their secure servers, SugarSync employs sophisticated 128-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Stabdard) encryption. Only you will have access to your files.

What Do They Do Better Than Anybody?

SugarSync is far more than just an online backup service. Think of it as a cloud computer that automatically copies and syncs all your data over your personal network of computers, laptops, and mobile devices. Imagine taking a photo on your smartphone and seeing it on your home computer without dealing with the hassels of transferring the image on a flash drive or disc. For anybody who’s on the go with multiple devices, this service can be a godsend.

Why Should I Consider Anybody Else?

SugarSync doesn’t offer unlimited plans so if you have large amounts of data to backup and syncing that data over multiple devices isn’t a concern, you may want to consider a service like Mozy or Carbonite. In addition, Sarah Park wrote a great article on Carbonite vs. Mozy here.

Give It To Me Straight

SugarSync is a great way to store, share, and mobilize your files and data. Especially with all of today’s mobile devices, SugarSync is a comprehensive solution for online storage, online file sharing/collaboration, and multiple computer syncing. With SugarSync’s advanced features, your files can follow you everywhere you go on any device you’re carrying. With its inovative combination of features, simplicity, and amazing flexibility, SugarSync is a tremendous service with great value and utility.

Try SugarSync RISK-FREE.