How do you back up a computer?

A computer backup is a second copy of your data that you store separately from the original. That includes family photos and videos, documents, emails, contacts, apps and even the operating system that powers your computer. If the originals are located on your laptop or a mobile device, you keep the backup somewhere else that’s safe — that way, you can use the second copy to restore your files or system if something happens to the original. To ensure all of this data is accurately copied so you can use it to recover your computer, backup software is a must. A solution like Acronis True Image automatically captures changes to everything, including hidden files that can be missed by manually copying files, and makes the process of recovery easy and efficient.

How do you back up a computer to an external hard drive?

With Acronis True Image (formerly Cyber Protect Home Office), creating a full image backup on an external hard drive is as easy as two clicks. Once the drive is connected and Acronis True Image (formerly Cyber Protect Home Office) is running, click Add backup . The entire computer is the default backup source, so you simply need to assign the external drive as the backup destination and then click Back up now .

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

Computer backups need to be stored someplace safe. Acronis recommends the 3-2-1 backup rule, which includes storing three copies of your data on at least two different types of media (such as external hard drives, network drives, and NAS devices) and keeping one 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. 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 (formerly Cyber Protect Home Office) 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.

What is Acronis anti-malware protection?

Acronis' advanced anti-malware gives you peace of mind by delivering outstanding multilayered threat protection. It uses a set of integrated technologies that address specific attack vectors: Superb protection against known and unknown malware, including ransomware, cryptojackers, and fileless attacks. Behavioral analysis and dynamic detection rules that combat any emerging threats. On-demand antivirus scan that checks all files on your computer for any kind of malware: Trojans, viruses, backdoors, worms, keyloggers, spyware and others. Acronis continuously safeguards your device and backups from the latest cyberthreats.

Do I need Acronis anti-malware protection if I already have specialized antivirus, anti-malware, firewall, or other security software?

Yes. Acronis anti-malware uses a set of integrated technologies that deliver data protection capabilities many third-party antiviruses don't. It keeps your backup safe. A dedicated module of Acronis anti-malware protection guards your backup files and the backup agent, preventing deletion or alteration by malware. It restores ransomware-affected files automatically. The majority of other security software only prevents the attack, without automatically recovering the ciphered data.

Is Acronis' anti-malware protection compatible with other anti-malware solutions?

We are aware that you may have specialized antivirus, web filtering, or other security software installed on your device. Although we recommend uninstalling the third-party software and fully relying on Acronis' anti-malware solution, you can still keep it active. Acronis' anti-malware protection is compatible with most common anti-malware solutions. They do not conflict with each other for resources and do not create extra overhead on the system. However, our real-time protection switches on only if there is no third-party real-time protection solution running on your device. If third-party software is detected, you'll receive a message on your protection dashboard notifying you that another piece of software is protecting you from malicious files. Note: If you continue using an existing third-party solution for device protection rather than Acronis' anti-malware, we cannot guarantee the reliability of that third-party protection.

Download The Best Anti-Malware Software

Name: True Image
Price: 34.99 EUR
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.4 (62 reviews)

Industry recognition

Acronis True Image excels in AV-TEST certification with unmatched protection and usability. Learn more

Why you need anti-malware protection from Acronis

Did you know that over 1 billion malware programs exist, so anti malware software is a necessity.

In today's digital world, your precious photos, personal files, and sensitive information face sophisticated threats that traditional antivirus can't handle. Plus, your devices are vulnerable to malware, ransomware and phishing. Threats evolve daily and one wrong click can compromise all your personal data, your passwords, identity, and finances.

Over 5,500,000
users worldwide trusted us
Over 100,000
prevented cyberattacks last year
Over 500,000,000
clones and backups

Why Acronis offers the best anti-malware software for personal protection

Acronis True Image doesn't only detect malware, but lets you create secure backups, or lets you recover flawlessly after data loss. It gives you complete peace of mind, using the latest AI technology to protect your personal data from malware, ransomware, cryptojackers, viruses and identity theft.*

Real-time defense

Our advanced AI constantly monitors your system, stopping zero-day threats before they can touch your personal files.

Ransomware-proof

Automatically detects and blocks malware and ransomware attempts, keeping your memories safe from digital hostage-takers.

Lightning-fast recovery

Even if a threat sneaks through, restore everything to safety with just one click even to identical or different hardware.

User-friendly interface

Easily monitor all devices’ backups, data statistics and cybersecurity metrics through a simple to use interface.

Advanced malware detection
Detect malware upon execution using a dynamic detection engine that identifies threats based on interactions with the system.
Active ransomware protection
Safeguard devices and backup files against malicious activity, using continuous threat monitoring to address previously unknown risks.
Vulnerability assessments
Evaluate potential security weaknesses in the operating system and applications with a comprehensive vulnerability assessment tool.
Secure backup
Keeping a safe copy of all your memories locally or in the Acronis Cloud to protect yourself and your personal files against malware and other threats.
Antivirus protection
Scan your device as needed, selecting between quick and full scans, on-demand and scheduled.
Web filtering
Block malicious URLs that try to inject malware, ransomware and cryptojackers onto your computer.
Identity Protection *
Safeguard your identity, personal data, Social Security number and your financial details.
Military-grade encryption
Protecting your sensitive files with enterprise-grade AES-256 encryption.

Award-winning cyber protection solution

Over 5.5 million users rely on Acronis True Image every day

OPSWAT Anti-malware Platinum certification

100% Detection Rate and 0 False Alarms in Tests

All Awards

Choose the Acronis True Image plan that meets your needs

Formerly Acronis Cyber Protect Home Office

Limited time offer valid until September 1, 2025

Essentials

Local backup and anti-ransomware protection

One-year subscription

€39.99per year

Flexible backups: full image to file level
Active disk cloning
Universal restore and fast recovery
Ransomware protection

FREE UPGRADES to the most recent product version
Phone, email and chat support
Available for Windows and macOS

Advanced

Local and cloud backup and security

What our users say

…
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Works On Multiple Platforms

Microsoft Windows

Windows 11 (all editions)
Windows 10 (all editions)
Windows 8+ (all editions)
Windows 7 SP1 (all editions)

Mobile operating systems

iOS 15 or later
Android 10 or later

Windows file systems

NTFS
Ext2/Ext3/Ext4
ReiserFS(3)
Linux SWAP
HFS+/HFSX
FAT16/32/exFAT

Apple macOS

macOS Sequoia 15
macOS Sonoma 14
macOS Ventura 13
macOS Monterey 12
macOS Big Sur 11

macOS file systems

APFS
HFS+
FAT32
NTFS (including Boot Camp)

Mobile backup

Keep your mobile contacts, calendars, photos and files safe. Our free Acronis mobile app safeguards your device, as well as all of your family’s smartphones and tablets with Acronis True Image (formerly Acronis Cyber Protect Home Office).

Frequently asked questions

What is anti-malware software?
Anti-malware software is your digital shield against harmful programs that can steal, encrypt, or destroy your personal data. It actively scans your device, detects suspicious activity, and stops threats before they can do harm to your photos, documents, and sensitive information.
What is the difference between anti-virus and anti-malware software?
Think of antivirus as a specialist and anti-malware as a general practitioner. Antivirus software primarily focuses on traditional computer viruses, while anti-malware provides broader protection against all types of modern threats, including ransomware, spyware, and sophisticated attacks that traditional antivirus might miss.
What features should I look for in the best anti-malware software?
Look for software that offers real-time protection that actively guards your system, not only just scheduled scans. The best solutions offer ransomware protection, behavior-based detection for new threats, automatic updates, and minimal impact on your device's performance. Bonus features like secure backup and recovery options provide extra peace of mind.
How do I download anti-malware software?
Get Acronis True Image, from here. The installation is quick and easy, and you'll be guided through the setup process. Once installed, it gives protection against the latest threats and you have the ability to back up all your personal photos, documents and sensitive information.
Why is malware protection important?
Your devices contain your entire digital life – from irreplaceable family photos to sensitive personal documents. Modern malware can lock these files forever, steal your identity, or drain your bank account. Protection isn't optional anymore– it's essential for keeping your digital memories and data safe.
Can I use anti-malware software on multiple devices?
Yes! With Acronis True Image you can protect multiple devices across different platforms, such as Windows and macOS.
Are free anti-malware software as good as paid versions?
Free solutions typically offer basic protection against common threats. Paid versions provide comprehensive security with advanced features like ransomware protection, zero-day threat detection, and the possibility to make a safe copy of your personal data with automated backups. When it comes to protecting your irreplaceable photos and sensitive data, investing in complete comprehensive protection is worth it.
What are the risks of not using malware software for protection?
Without protection, you're vulnerable to data theft, ransomware attacks that can lock your files forever, financial fraud, and identity theft. One successful attack could mean losing years of family photos, important documents, or even thousands of dollars. Malware nowadays is sophisticated enough to bypass basic system security, making dedicated protection essential.

* Only available in the U.S. for Advanced and Premium subscriptions.

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Stay protected with Acronis powerful anti-malware software

Why you need anti-malware protection from Acronis

Real-time defense

Ransomware-proof

Lightning-fast recovery

User-friendly interface

Award-winning cyber protection solution

Choose the Acronis True Image plan that meets your needs

What our users say

Works On Multiple Platforms

Microsoft Windows

Mobile operating systems

Windows file systems

Apple macOS

macOS file systems

Mobile backup

Frequently asked questions

What is anti-malware software?

What is the difference between anti-virus and anti-malware software?

What features should I look for in the best anti-malware software?

How do I download anti-malware software?

Why is malware protection important?

Can I use anti-malware software on multiple devices?

Are free anti-malware software as good as paid versions?

What are the risks of not using malware software for protection?