BackupPC review
A free, self-hosted choice for pooled file backups across multiple computers.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
BackupPC is a free, open-source, self-hosted backup system for Linux, Windows, and macOS PCs and laptops. It stores backups on a server’s disk and is aimed at individuals, teams, or administrators who want centralized file protection across multiple computers. Full and incremental backups, configurable schedules, per-PC settings, and email reminders for computers that have not been backed up recently cover the core operational needs.
Its strongest differentiator is pooled storage across backups. BackupPC combines file pooling and deduplication with compression, which can reduce repeated data across protected computers and backup sets. Administration takes place through a web CGI interface, with tools for browsing backups, downloading individual files, and restoring directly to client machines. Transfer options include SMB, rsync, and tar, with transport over SSH, rsh, or NFS, giving administrators several ways to fit the system to an existing self-hosted environment.
The trade-off is scope and responsibility. BackupPC concentrates on file backup and file restoration, so it suits users who need access to selected files rather than full system-image recovery. It also requires a server and ongoing administration, including configuration of schedules, per-computer settings, and transfer methods. Choose it when free, open-source control and multi-computer deduplication matter more than a managed service or broader protection features. Consider another backup product when disk-image recovery or ransomware protection is central to the requirement.
BackupPC pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free, open-source deployment with no paid tiers
- Deduplicates and compresses files across backups
- Supports SMB, rsync, tar, SSH, rsh, and NFS
- Where it doesn't
- Requires a self-hosted server and administration
- Focuses on file backup rather than disk images
- Does not provide ransomware protection
BackupPC fact sheet, pricing and score →
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