What does it mean to back up a computer to the cloud?

As we said, computer backups need to be stored someplace safe. Acronis recommends the 3-2-1 backup rule, which includes storing a copy of your backup files locally (on external hard drives, network drives and NAS devices) and another copy off-site. That way if a fire or flood damages both your original files and the local backup, the off-site copy is available to use for recovery.

"The cloud" is a term that describes a remote network of computers and servers that you access via the internet. Because you just log in via the internet, the cloud is a convenient way to store your files off-site, where they are safe from local damage. Subscriptions to the Advanced and Premium editions of Acronis True Image include cloud storage, as well as cloud-based features and anywhere access to your data.

With Acronis True Image, you also have the ability to automatically replicate local backups in the Acronis Cloud, so you always have an off-site copy of your data available without having to manage a separate backup plan. By choosing this option, after the first successful backup, your backup and replication will be done simultaneously, in parallel.