The world of backup software is very extensive and competitive on the Windows platform. Software like Backblaze, Crashplan, and Mozy are some of the most well-known proprietary titles in this area. Backup4all Pro is a different piece of software in the respect of how how much detail and control the user has over their backups and logs. After using it a bit, I’d recommend Backup4all Pro to any backup enthusiast, novice or not.

At retail, Backup4all Pro sells for $49.95. Here at MakeUseOf, we’re going to be giving away 25 copies of one of the best all-around Windows backup solutions on the web, totaling at a cost of near $1250! If you’re interested, read through this review of the software and learn more about the participation details of this giveaway near the bottom of the post.

Backup4all Professional 4.8 makes it incredibly easy for a layman to get started backing up their data locally or remotely. Upon starting the program, you’re immediately presenting with a Getting Started wizard filled with how-to examples and video tutorials. Similar software doesn’t go through the efforts of explaining proper usage right within the UI of the program itself.

As shown above, Backup4all supports FTP and SFTP, as well as backups on the local or network levels. Unlike services like Backblaze or Mozy, Backup4all does not have its own cloud where you can send your files. Though backup this way has its clear benefits, there are also many drawbacks (security, cost, and so forth).

Through the advanced mode when setting up a new backup, you’re able to configure the most specifics ins and outs of the backup process. I appreciate the level of control that they offer to the user, as not everyone is a huge fan of the set-and-forget application model. You’re able to set up email notices when your backup has finished, process priority levels, and you’re able to determine if you’d like your backup to be incremental, differential, mirrored, or complete. Such options can really save us time and stress to the hard drive.

Backups are executed quickly and smoothly. Upon completing a backup, you’re taken to the Statistics review page that will report any errors and a full summary along the way.

Other view modes, under the Views tab across the top menu, include Explore (which shows a tree view of backed up files on your drive), Summary (which shows a complete text summary of your backup type), Backup (which breaks down each individual backup you’ve ever run), and more.

The restoration process is just as simple as backing up your files. Shown above, you can see how extensive and specific the options are. You can easily run a complete restore of backed up files or choose through individual files or increments that you want to restore. Again, Backup4all has made efforts to make the entire process very painless and pinpoint.

As mentioned before, Backup4all also supports common features like a scheduler and a tester, so that you can test for the integrity of your backups to make sure everything is as it should be. You’re also able to burn your backups to Blu-ray or DVD. Another awesome feature that shouldn’t go without mentioning is the software’s plugin capability.

You’re able to download plugins from the official Backup4all website that allow the importing and backing up of data from some of our favorite third-party applications incredibly simple and easy. That includes software like Google Chrome, iTunes, Skype, Pidgin, mIRC, and more. This feature really puts Backup4all Pro ahead of certain comparable software.

Overall, I’d say that Backup4all is the answer to Windows backup when you’re looking for a piece of software that will allow you to easily backup your most important files while also having complete control of the specifics. Backup4all is compatible with all versions of Windows from XP forward, and other versions are available, like Standard ($39.95), Lite, ($19.95), and Portable ($39.95). You can buy these versions, or Professional, from the Backup4all website.

Only 25 free copies of Backup4all Pro are up for grabs, so make sure you enter the giveaway while you can. Again, this is an awesome tool for those of us who want full control of our backups on Windows.

How do I win a copy of Backup4all Pro?

It’s simple, just follow the instructions. Please note that we’ve included a new entry method which utilises your MakeUseOf points.

Step 1: Fill in the giveaway form

Please fill in the form with your real name and email address so that we can get in touch if you are chosen as a winner. Click here if you can’t view the form.

The giveaway code required to activate the form is available from our Facebook page, our Twitter stream and Google+ page.

Step 2: Share!

You’re almost done. Now, all that’s left to do is to share the post!

Alternative entry method: Use your points!

If you don’t have a Facebook, Twitter or Google+ account, you may exchange your MakeUseOf points for an entry into the competition. It’s really simple: create a MakeUseOf account, earn points and exchange your points for an entry! Learn more about our Game system and Rewards program.

Sorry, the competition is now over

This giveaway begins now and ends Friday, July 13th. The winners will be selected at random and informed via email.

Spread the word to your friends and have fun!

Interested in sponsoring a giveaway? We’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with us via the form at the bottom of this page.