Cobian Backup: Scheduled File Backups That Just Work (and Keep Working)
What Is It?
Cobian Backup is one of those rare tools that’s been around for years, stayed simple, and still does exactly what it promises: automatic file and folder backups for Windows systems. It doesn’t do imaging. It doesn’t need a server. It just quietly runs in the background, copying data on a schedule — to local disks, network shares, or FTP.
Unlike some newer solutions, Cobian doesn’t chase trends. No cloud sync. No bloated UI. Instead, it gives full control over backup sets, timing, compression, encryption, and logs — all in a lightweight package. It’s especially useful in cases where something “just stable” is needed, often on older systems or tightly controlled workstations.
Capabilities
| Feature | Description |
| Incremental & Differential | Supports both modes to save space and reduce backup time |
| File-Level Backups | No disk imaging — only files and folders are included |
| Built-In Scheduler | Automates backups by minute, hourly, daily, or weekly |
| ZIP Compression | Optionally compresses archives to reduce size |
| AES Encryption | Supports 128-, 192-, and 256-bit encryption |
| Network and FTP Support | Can write to UNC paths and remote FTP servers |
| Service Mode | Runs as a background Windows service, even without login |
| Detailed Logging | Generates plain-text logs for each run, success or failure |
Deployment Notes
– Windows Only: Works best on Windows 7–10; newer forks like Cobian Reflector support Windows 11.
– Does not include restore tools: Restore is manual — unzip and copy back.
– No centralized interface: Each machine must be configured individually.
– Best for file redundancy: Not suitable for full system or bare-metal recovery.
– Still widely used: Especially in offline environments, SMBs, or when older hardware is in play.
Installation Guide
1. Download from Official Site
– Use https://www.cobiansoft.com or community forks (e.g., Cobian Reflector)
2. Install as Service (Recommended)
– During setup, select “install as service” so it runs in the background.
3. Create a Backup Task
– Select files/folders to include.
– Define destination: local folder, mapped drive, or FTP path.
4. Choose Backup Type
– Full, Incremental, or Differential based on schedule.
5. Set Compression and Encryption
– Optional password-protected ZIP output.
6. Schedule It
– Choose frequency and time. Test first run manually.
7. Review Logs
– Check status logs to confirm backup worked — especially if silent mode is enabled.
Usage Scenarios
– Nightly backups of work folders on desktops or laptops without centralized backup tools.
– Archiving project files to external drives or NAS boxes on schedule.
– Backing up critical folders on air-gapped or isolated systems.
– FTP-based offloading of backups from branch offices to central infrastructure.
– Keeping copies of user data on legacy systems that can’t run modern backup suites.