Backup and Sync No Longer Available: Explore Alternative Methods

The error message "Backup and Sync is no longer available" began appearing after October 1, 2021. This is when Google decided to discontinue Backup and Sync and transition users to the desktop version of Google Drive.

Translation:

In other words, what were once two separate programs have now been merged into one. This consolidation is not necessarily welcomed by many users, as they preferred the convenience of distinct tools over a unified one.

So, with Backup and Sync no longer an option, are there better alternatives available? How do other storage providers compare? Let's explore some feasible alternatives.

Has Backup and Sync been discontinued?

Yes, Backup and Sync has been discontinued by Google. Although Google phrased it politely as "Backup and Sync and Drive File Stream have been unified into Drive for desktop," many users did not receive the news lightly. After October 1st, 2021, the service ceased functioning for users worldwide.

Naturally, people took to the internet to voice their opinions. Numerous YouTube users shared their thoughts on the matter, with one particular user encapsulating the sentiment of many:

While others indicated they wanted a new or alternative option:

Although the majority of users perceive it as the replacement of Backup and Sync, Google intends to emphasize that it's actually the introduction of a newer and more reliable program. However, this is not an unfamiliar scenario. In 2018, Backup and Sync supplanted Google Drive itself. Consequently, rather than being a takeover, it can be seen as Google Drive reclaiming its position. Nonetheless, as is well-known, Google prefers to brand its programs under its own name.

Users have not taken the "Backup and Sync is no longer available" message lightly. In fact, some have even reported losing data as a result. With the final release note of Backup and Sync, it's now clear that this is not an error. Rather, Google has officially discontinued this much-loved service.

What to Do: Switch to Google Drive for Desktop

If your files are stored in your Google account, you do need to switch to Google Drive for Desktop. This is the only way you can access a tool like Backup and Sync, which Google now refers to as Stream files or Mirror files.

Alright, how do you do that? By downloading and installing Google Drive on your desktop. Here's how:

Step 1: Go to Google Drive's download page and download Drive for Desktop.

Step 2: Install Drive on your computer

Step 3: Sign in to your account and right-click the tray icon for Google Drive

Step 4: Click on the Settings cogwheel and Resume Syncing

Now that you've completed syncing your Google Drive desktop app, how does it differ from Backup and Sync?

• Both permit using files from your "My Drive" folders on your Desktop
• Both support opening Microsoft Office or non-Google files
• Drive for Desktop takes it a step further by displaying who is currently editing a document, specifically Docx files
• Both can synchronize folders such as Documents or Desktop to your Google Drive account
• Both enable the use of multiple Google accounts simultaneously
• Both can access the Apple Photos Library
• Both accept file uploads from USB devices
• Drive for Desktop exclusively offers Dark Mode

These factors make Drive actually a bit more favorable than its predecessor. But, like anything related to computers and software, it takes some time for people to warm up to and accept changes.

Explore A Professional Option - Todo Backup Tools

Suppose you're tired of dealing with Google's constant changes and the hassle of backing up your files. In that case, you can explore a professional and superior alternative – Todo Backup. What sets this tool apart as a better and more suitable solution for users today?

• It provides significantly more storage with 250GB for free - compared to Google's 15GB
• It boasts superior features such as Security Zone - which safeguards your backups from ransomware
• Disk imaging ensures even the tiniest files are properly backed up
• Instant recovery and swift restoration of files

These elements, along with numerous others, make this program a feasible and reliable choice. Consequently, if you're seeking a user-friendly backup solution, this one fits the bill. To back up your files, follow these steps:

Step 1. Click the "Select backup contents" button to initiate the backup process.

Step 2. There are four data backup categories: File, Disk, OS, and Mail. Click on File.

Step 3. Both local and network files will be listed on the left. You can expand the directory to select the files to back up.

Step 4. Follow the on-screen instructions and choose the location where you want to save the backup.

Click "Options" to encrypt the backup with a password in "Backup Options", set the backup schedule, and choose to start the backup at a specific event in "Backup Scheme". There are also numerous other options available for you to explore, allowing you to customize the backup task to suit your needs.

Step 5. You can save the backup to your local drive, the tool's cloud service, or a NAS device.

Step 6. Todo Backup allows users to back up data to both third-party cloud drives and its own cloud drive.

If you want to back up data to a third-party cloud drive, select Local Drive, scroll down to add a Cloud Device, then add and log in to your account.

You can also opt for the tool's built-in cloud drive. Click on 'Tools Cloud,' sign up with your Tool Account, and log in.

Step 7. Click "Backup Now" to initiate the backup process. Once the backup is complete, it will be displayed as a card on the left panel. You can right-click the backup task to access additional management options.

"People Also Ask"

1. Is Backup and Sync the same as Google Drive?

Yes, that's correct. Google Drive actually transitioned to Backup and Sync in 2018. However, in 2021, Google combined Backup and Sync along with Drive Stream back into a single application, and it's now known as Google Drive for Desktop.

2. Why did Google discontinue Backup and Sync?

Instead of requiring users to utilize two separate programs, Google opted to streamline the process by integrating it into a single desktop application.

Conclusion

These are some of the reasons why Backup and Sync are no longer accessible on your computer. There are alternative options available, such as Google's own Drive desktop application. However, you might consider using tools like Todo Backup to ensure the continued safety of your crucial files. Additionally, it can assist you in creating a copy of your computer's data onto an external hard drive.