Online backups save your files

Though online backup services are not the last word in keeping valuable computer data safe, they can play an important role. Some act just like a remote hard drive; others sync files across computers, making sure that the data stays up-to-date whether it's accessed at home, work or on a mobile device. Online backup services are also a great for squirreling away hard-drive-hogging files, like videos, and some even let you stream music and video files from one computer to another. The most obvious benefit, of course, is that online backup services provide important disaster protection -- as long as the one you pick doesn't let you down when you need it most. For the best bets among online backup services for business and home computer users -- including some that are absolutely free -- see our newly-updated report.