Frequently Asked Questions

IDrive is a comprehensive cloud backup service that allows you to back up your data from multiple devices (PCs, Macs, iPhones, iPads, Android devices) to a single account. Key services include:

• Automatic and continuous backup of files and folders
• Real-time syncing across devices
• File versioning and archive maintenance
• Remote access to backed-up data from any device
• Cloud-to-cloud backup for Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
• IDrive Express service for physical backup/restore of large data

IDrive supports a wide range of platforms and devices:

• Desktop: Windows (7 and later), macOS (10.10 and later)
• Mobile: iOS (11.0 and later), Android (5.0 and later)
• Server: Windows Server, Linux (CLI application)
• Cloud Services: Microsoft 365, Google Workspace
• Network Attached Storage: Synology, QNAP, and other NAS devices
• External Drives: Can back up directly from external hard drives

Yes, IDrive offers a free plan with the following features:

• 5GB of cloud storage at no cost
• Backup for unlimited devices under one account
• Access to basic backup and restore features
• File versioning and deleted file retention
• Access from web, desktop, and mobile apps

This free plan is ideal for trying out the service or for users with minimal backup needs. You can upgrade to paid plans at any time for additional storage and features.

Creating an IDrive account is simple and free:

1. Visit the IDrive website
2. Click on the "Sign Up" or "Get Started" button
3. Enter your email address and create a password
4. Choose your plan (free or paid)
5. Complete the registration process
6. Verify your email address when prompted
7. Download and install the IDrive application on your devices

Once registered, you can immediately start backing up your data to the cloud.

IDrive accepts various payment methods for subscription purchases:

• Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
• Debit cards with credit card logos
• PayPal
• Bank transfers (for enterprise/business accounts)
• Purchase orders (for business/enterprise plans)

All payments are processed through secure, encrypted channels to ensure your financial information remains protected.

Yes, you can upgrade or downgrade your IDrive plan at any time:

• Upgrading: When you upgrade, you get immediate access to additional storage. The cost is prorated based on your current billing cycle.
• Downgrading: You can downgrade to a lower storage plan, but your data must fit within the new storage limit. If you exceed the new limit, you'll need to delete files before downgrading.
• Process: Plan changes can be made through your account settings on the IDrive website. Changes typically take effect immediately.
• Billing: When changing plans mid-cycle, you'll receive a prorated credit or charge on your next billing statement.

Follow these steps to install IDrive on your computer:

1. Log into your IDrive account on the website
2. Download the appropriate application for your operating system (Windows or Mac)
3. Run the downloaded installer file
4. Follow the installation wizard prompts
5. Once installed, launch the IDrive application
6. Sign in with your IDrive account credentials
7. Configure your backup settings (choose folders to backup, set schedule, etc.)
8. Start your first backup

The installation process typically takes only a few minutes. You can continue using your computer while the initial backup runs in the background.

You have full control over what gets backed up to IDrive:

• During Setup: The initial setup wizard lets you choose common folders (Documents, Desktop, Pictures, etc.)
• Manual Selection: You can manually select specific folders and files through the application interface
• File Type Filters: You can choose to include or exclude specific file types (e.g., only backup photos and documents)
• Scheduled Backups: Set up automatic backups on a schedule that works for you
• Continuous Backup: Enable continuous backup for real-time protection of selected files
• Network Drives/External Drives: You can also backup from network locations and external storage devices

You can modify your backup selection at any time through the application settings.

The initial backup time depends on several factors:

• Amount of Data: The total size of files selected for backup
• Internet Speed: Your upload bandwidth (usually slower than download)
• Computer Performance: Your computer's processing power and available resources
• File Types: Many small files may take longer than fewer large files of the same total size

Typical Timeframes:

• 1GB of data: Approximately 15-30 minutes on average home internet
• 10GB of data: 2-5 hours
• 100GB of data: 1-3 days
• 1TB of data: 1-2 weeks

Tip: Use IDrive Express service for initial backups over 500GB to avoid long upload times.

You can restore files in several ways:

1. Through Desktop Application:
   • Open the IDrive application on your computer
   • Navigate to the "Restore" tab
   • Select the files/folders you want to restore
   • Choose restore location (original or different location)
   • Click "Restore Now"
2. Via Web Browser:
   • Log into your IDrive account on the website
   • Navigate to "Restore" section
   • Browse and select files to restore
   • Download selected files to your computer
3. Using Mobile App:
   • Open the IDrive mobile app
   • Browse your backed-up files
   • Select files and choose "Download" or "Restore"
4. IDrive Express (for large restores): For restoring large amounts of data, you can request a physical drive shipment.

IDrive employs multiple layers of security to protect your data:

• Encryption: All data is encrypted with 256-bit AES encryption during transfer and storage
• Private Encryption Key: Optional private key encryption ensures only you can access your data (we cannot recover your data if you lose this key)
• SSL/TLS: Secure socket layer encryption for all data transfers
• Secure Data Centers: Data stored in SOC 2 certified data centers with 24/7 monitoring
• Two-Factor Authentication: Optional 2FA adds an extra layer of account security
• Compliance: Compliant with various industry standards and regulations
• No Data Mining: We do not mine or analyze your personal data for advertising

The level of access depends on your encryption settings:

• Standard Encryption: With standard settings, IDrive holds the encryption key. While employees do not routinely access user data, they technically could with proper authorization (for support purposes only).
• Private Encryption Key: If you enable private key encryption, only you hold the decryption key. IDrive employees cannot access your data under any circumstances. However, if you lose this key, we cannot help you recover your data.
• Privacy Policy: Our privacy policy strictly limits employee access to user data to specific circumstances such as troubleshooting at your request or complying with legal requirements.
• Audit Logs: All access to systems containing user data is logged and monitored.

For maximum privacy, we recommend using the private encryption key option.

Slow backups can be caused by several factors. Try these troubleshooting steps:

• Check Internet Connection: Test your upload speed using online speed tests
• Reduce Concurrent Backups: If backing up multiple devices simultaneously, try backing up one at a time
• Adjust Bandwidth Throttling: In IDrive settings, you can limit bandwidth usage to prevent slowdowns
• Schedule Backups: Set backups to run during off-peak hours when internet is faster
• Check Computer Resources: Ensure your computer has sufficient RAM and processing power
• File Size Matters: Many small files backup slower than fewer large files of the same total size
• Exclude Unnecessary Files: Remove temporary files and system files from backup selection
• Update Software: Ensure you're using the latest version of IDrive application
• Restart Application: Sometimes restarting the IDrive application can resolve performance issues

Backing up your mobile device is straightforward:

1. Download the IDrive app from your device's app store (Apple App Store or Google Play Store)
2. Install and open the app
3. Sign in with your IDrive account credentials
4. Grant necessary permissions (photos, contacts, etc.)
5. Choose what to backup:
   • Photos and videos
   • Contacts
   • Calendar events
   • Device settings (iOS only)
   • App data (varies by app)
6. Select backup settings (Wi-Fi only, cellular allowed, etc.)
7. Start the backup process

The app can be configured to backup automatically when connected to Wi-Fi, ensuring your mobile data is always protected.