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Asus Zephyrus G14 review
2:50 am | March 31, 2020

Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Gaming Computers Gaming Laptops | Tags: , , , | Comments: Off

Editor's Note

• Original review date: March 2020
• Launch price: Starts at $1,449 / £1,449 (about AU$2,351)
• Target price now (updated model): Starts at $1,599 / £1,499 (about AU$2,440)

Update – July 2024: Don't panic when you look at those updated prices - the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 we reviewed here is now more than four years old, and the new versions that are currently available have seen a pretty huge redesign as well as a range of more powerful internal configurations.

Still, a lot of the points we loved about this older model continue to ring true, with the new iterations being even thinner than their predecessors while still offering top-notch performance and plenty of bang for your buck. In truth, most of Asus's ROG Zephyrus laptops are worthy of standing among the best gaming laptops.

If you're looking for a great deal on the current-gen ROG Zephyrus G14, you're in luck - we track the best Zephyrus G14 deals month-by-month to help you snag a bargain!

Two minute review

The Asus Zephyrus G14 was the laptop AMD used when it showed the world its Ryzen 4000 processors for gaming laptops, and now we kind of see why. This is a relatively thin and light device that delivers performance and battery life that we've never seen before in this category. Both AMD and Asus knocked it out of the park. 

At $1,449 (about £1,170, AU$2,351), the Zephyrus G14 is a bit pricey, but compared to similar systems like the Lenovo Legion Y740, you can get an RTX 2060-equipped model at the same price, but with less RAM and a much weaker processor. 

So, really, if you look at that high price tag in another context, Asus is positioning an AMD Ryzen 9-equipped laptop against Intel Core i7 systems that simply cannot compete. Sure, when it comes to design it's not quite as sexy as the MSI GS65 Stealths of the world, but if you're after a gaming system that's both powerful and packed with battery life, you shouldn't be looking at an Intel system right now.

Still, the Asus Zephyrus G14 is limited to an RTX 2060. The level of performance that the processor brings to the table leads us to wonder what a system with a more powerful GPU would be capable of, but at the end of the day, with a 1080p display it's more than enough to max out every single game on the market today – and then some. 

As the first gaming laptop out of the gate with AMD's new Ryzen 4000 processors, the Asus Zephyrus G14 has a lot to prove. But in our time with the device, we can definitely see this laptop as a precursor to some of the most incredible laptops in history coming out later in 2020.  

Asus Zephyrus G14

(Image credit: Future)
Spec sheet

Here are the specs of the Asus Zephyrus G14 sent to TechRadar for review:

CPU: 3.0GHz AMD Ryzen 9 4900HS (8-core, 12MB cache, up to 4.3GHz)
Graphics: Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 (6GB GDDR6)
RAM: 16GB DDR4 (3,200MHz)
Screen: 14-inch Full HD (1,920 x 1,080) IPS, 120Hz
Storage: 1TB SSD (PCIe)
Ports: 2 x USB 3.1 Gen2, HDMI-out, Gigabit Ethernet, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen1, 1 x Mic-in, 1 x Headphone-out
Connectivity: Intel Wi-Fi6 (802.11ax); Bluetooth 5.0
Weight: 3.53 pounds (1.60kg)
Size: 12.75 x 8.82 x 0.70 inches (32.4 x 22.4 x 1.79 cm); W x D x H

Price and availability

Currently, there's only one configuration of the Asus Zephyrus G14 listed on Asus' store page in the US, and it's the same as what's listed to the right. For $1,449 (about £1,170, AU$2,351), you're getting the Ryzen 9 4900HS, 16GB of RAM and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060. But things are a bit more complicated when we look at other territories. 

In the UK, there are two models, coming in at £999 and £1,599, but neither of them have quite the same hardware. The £1,599 model is packing an AMD Ryzen 7 4800H, 16GB of RAM and the same GPU, but has a QHD (2,560 x 1,440) display, rather than the FHD 120Hz panel found in the model we reviewed here. The base model in the UK is limited to an AMD Ryzen 5 4600H and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650. We haven't tested a Ryzen 5-equipped laptop yet, so we can't really say whether £999 is a good price for this system. We can say that with just 8GB of RAM, it might be pushing it. 

It doesn't look like the Asus Zephyrus G14 is available in Australia quite yet. 

There are other configurations on the way, and they should be filtering out by June. But, if you want to get your hands on any of the configurations we explored, you can pre-order the laptop now. 

When you look at the Asus Zephyrus G14 specs for the various configurations and how they change so drastically from region to region, making a recommendation is difficult. AMD Ryzen 4000 is a brand new platform, so we can only speak for the model we have in front of us right now. But that configuration is absolutely worth it. 

Asus Zephyrus G14

(Image credit: Future)

Design

Considering the hardware on offer, the Asus Zephyrus G14 is thinner and lighter than you may expect. Coming in at just 0.7 inches thick and weighing just 3.53 lb, this is extremely portable for a gaming laptop. It's not as thin and light as, say, your average XPS 13, but it doesn't need to be. 

Even compared to other thin and light gaming laptops like the Razer Blade 15 and the MSI GS65 Stealth, it's just as thin and even lighter than either of them, thanks to the magnesium alloy-equipped chassis. If you were after a thin and light gaming laptop that'll fit in your bag without weighing you down, the Asus Zephyrus G14 is it.

Being thin and light isn't everything, though, and the laptop needs to hold up elsewhere. 

The Asus Zephyrus G14 has a general aesthetic that might be bordering a little much on the capital-G Gamer for some folks, but it's not too bad. The lid of the laptop is divided diagonally, with one half covered in these little dots. There is a version of this laptop that has these light up with white LEDs, and while we've seen that version at a ton of trade shows, that is not present in our review model, so we can't report back what kind of impact this has on usability or battery life.

There are a ton of vents all over the place, along with a very angular look. The way we see it, having all of these vents is ultimately a good thing for a device that's packing hardware on this level. When you're looking for a device to either play the best PC games or get some creative work done, you don't want to run into thermal limits. 

The chiclet keyboard is extremely well spaced and comfortable to type on. This is surprising just because of how small of a footprint the device actually has. However, there will likely be some folks that are turned off by the softer feel of the keyboard, as it's not as tactile or clicky as some gaming laptops out there with mechanical keyboards.

What we really like about the keyboard, however is the dedicated buttons at the top. We don't know about you, but the ability to change volume on the fly without messing around with combining the Fn key with one of the Function Keys at the top is a nice touch. There's also a dedicated key for opening Armory Crate, which will let you control system performance and RGB lighting with supported Aura Sync-ready components. This is a nice touch, but because there's no RGB on the system we reviewed, we couldn't use our creativity to really put it to the test. For the record: we want RGB on everything. 

The touchpad is generally serviceable. Multi-touch gestures work here, and it's accurate enough – basically it gets the job done. Because this is a gaming laptop and a lot of folks are going to be using this thing with one of the best gaming mice, the touchpad doesn't need to blow anyone's mind. Creative folks who are just after the awesome multi-core performance, however, will be able to get by with this touchpad. But, we recommend a mouse either away.  

Asus Zephyrus G14

(Image credit: Future)

The display is also pretty amazing for the price you're paying. Sure, it's not one of these 4K OLED panels we're seeing on ultra-premium laptops, but that doesn't matter with the hardware on offer here. You're getting an incredibly solid 1080p display with a blazingly-fast 120Hz refresh rate. The display hits 100% of the sRGB spectrum so it's more than colorful enough for gaming. Plus, at just 14-inches, the display doesn't need to have a higher resolution anyway. 

There's a trend in laptops where manufacturers are shoving in super-high-resolution displays, and we don't think it's worth it. You lose out on battery life and most people won't really tell the difference with a laptop this size. Plus, when it's paired with an RTX 2060, you can actually hit that 120Hz while gaming. Which we can. 

We were able to play Doom Eternal at 1080p on Ultra Nightmare settings (though just Ultra textures, thanks 6GB frame buffer). Motion was so smooth on this display it feels close enough to playing on our premium gaming monitor. 

As for speakers, we have to applaud Asus here: they're not on the bottom of the laptop. We do wish the speakers had a little more oomph to them, as Doom Eternal doesn't sound quite as bombastic as we'd like. Still, plugging in a gaming headset into one of the many ports available remedies that problem. 

And when we say there are many ports, we mean there are many. With the Asus Zephyrus G14 you're getting two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A ports and two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports, one of which can be used for charging the laptop. You also get a dedicated charging port, a HDMI and a combo 3.5mm headphone/mic jack. In a laptop that's this easy to carry around, we absolutely adore the wide range of I/O here. 

There's only really one thing missing here, but it might be kind of a big deal for certain users: no webcam. Now, we don't think that's a huge deal, as you don't really need a webcam for games unless you're streaming. And even if you are streaming, you're better off with one of the best webcams anyway. There is probably a certain subset of users that are looking to use this laptop for work, and they might run into some issues. Basically, it's just something to keep in mind. If having a built-in webcam is a deal breaker, you might want to look elsewhere.

Asus Zephyrus G14

(Image credit: Future)
Benchmarks

Here's how the Asus Zephyrus G14 fared in our suite of benchmark tests:

3DMark Sky Diver: 34,347; Fire Strike: 13,950; Time Spy: 5,872
Cinebench R20: 3,961 cb
Geekbench 4 Single-Core: 5,265; Multi-Core: 29,907
Geekbench 5 Single-Core: 1,202; Multi-Core: 7,815
PCMark 8 Home: 4,692
PCMark 8 Battery Life: 5 hours 37 minutes
Battery Life (TechRadar movie test): 8 hours 10 minutes
Total War: Three Kingdoms: 128fps (1080p, Low) 44fps (1080p Ultra)
Metro Exodus: 115fps (1080p, Low), 38fps (1080p, Ultra)

Performance

Wow, is that AMD Ryzen 9 4900HS something. Packed with 8-cores and 16-threads with a base clock of 3.0GHz and a boost of 4.3GHz, this is a speed monster. In all of our CPU-heavy testing workloads, this processor absolutely smashed the competition. 

Even compared to the full-fat and overclockable Intel Core i9-9980HK found in the Alienware m17, we're seeing wins for AMD. For instance, in Cinebench R15, the AMD-powered Zephyrus gets a solid 1,782 points, compared to the Alienware's 1,182.  That's a whopping 34% jump in performance, found in a laptop that's literally half the price of the Alienware m17 configuration we reviewed back in December. 

The fun doesn't end there. In Geekbench 4 not only does the Zephyrus obviously win the multi-core contest with 29,907 points, beating the Core i9 by 24%, but even comes within margin of error when it comes to its single-core score of 5,265.

A lot of this is possible because of the move down to the 7nm AMD Zen 2 architecture on mobile. This, plus some creative engineering from the folks over at AMD, has allowed this processor to offer truly desktop-class performance on a laptop that weighs just over 3 lb.

But, of course, the Asus Zephyrus G14 is a gaming laptop, so gaming performance is perhaps more important than raw CPU power. And, well, thanks to the RTX 2060 Max-Q included here, the Zephyrus kills it in games too – up to a point. 

With a 3DMark Time Spy score of 5,872 and the ability to run Metro Exodus on Ultra settings with a decent 38 fps frame rate, you can expect solid gaming performance here. And, we'll even reiterate: we're able to get a steady 120 fps in the recently-released Doom Eternal. 

It's hard to compare this to a similarly specced system with an Intel chip, simply because there aren't a lot of laptops out there that pair an Intel Core i9 processor with the RTX 2060. It's strange that this pairing exists with the Asus Zephyrus G14, but AMD seems committed to avoiding the high-end of the market for now, so hopefully we'll be able to see exactly where these chips line up in terms of gaming with future systems – we'd love to see a gaming laptop with a Ryzen 9 and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080, and we don't think we're alone in that. 

Asus Zephyrus G14

(Image credit: Future)

Battery life

AMD Ryzen 4000 CPU performance is definitely a huge reason to pick this laptop up, but battery life is far more interesting. But first, a bit of background. 

Generally speaking, when it comes to gaming laptops, we've got to a point where we don't even expect them to break three or four hours of juice. If we're lucky, we'll see a gaming laptop hit 5 hours, but it's incredibly rare that we'll ever see one that you can use to work all day away from a charger. 

Those days are over. 

In our movie test, where we loop 1080p video back to back, the Asus Zephyrus G14 lasted an incredible 8 hours and 10 minutes. The HP Elite Dragonfly, a laptop that is sold based on its battery life scores 8 hours and 11 minutes in the same test. Plus, that's with a CPU that has less than half the TDP of the AMD Ryzen 9 4900HS – and with no dedicated GPU, either. 

In the PCMark8 battery test, the Asus Zephyrus G14 scores 4 hours and 47 minutes. To put it in perspective with recent gaming laptops, the amazing Alienware m15 R2 only manages 2 hours and 45 minutes in that test. 

We have never seen a gaming laptop that can reach this level of battery life or even anywhere near it. AMD has made some bold claims about Ryzen 4000 battery life, and it actually delivered. Intel should be taking notes right now. 

(Image credit: Asus)

Software and features

There are really only three pieces of software that Asus includes on the Zephyrus G14. ROG Game Visual, Armory Crate and GameFirst VI. All three of these pieces of software let you tinker with how the laptop performs. Game Visual lets you tinker with the display, swapping between different presets and allowing you to adjust color temperature. 

GameFirst VI will help you optimize your network for online gaming, even helping you sniff out the strongest network in your proximity. We're in the middle of New York City, which means that the screen showing all the networks looks wild, but if you're in a home with access to multiple networks, this will help you pick the right one. 

Then, Armory Crate lets you tinker with basically everything else. Through this software you can adjust everything from fan speed to RGB (through connected peripherals, there is no RGB built into the laptop). There's even a tab that will scan your computer for installed games and let you launch them from there, without worrying about sorting through the dozens of PC game services that we have to live with these days. 

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Remote Desktop Manager review: Businesses who value security should check it out
6:20 pm | March 30, 2020

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

Remote Desktop Manager by Revolutions is a top choice for remote desktop software. It provides remote computer access across networks along with various security and convenience features like centralized password management, one-click connections, two-factor authentication, and role-based access controls. Additionally, it is compatible with Android and iOS mobile devices. If you're considering this tool for screen sharing in your business, you might want to check out our in-depth Remote Desktop Manager review.

Remote Desktop Manager: Plans and pricing

Remote Desktop Manager's pricing varies depending on usage and the number of licenses needed. The software is free for individual users, such as solo IT managers. However, access to team features like role-based access controls and shared databases is restricted. Nonetheless, users can still remotely access networked computers across their business and use the software's built-in password management tools.

For IT and helpdesk teams, licenses start at $324.99 per user per year. Businesses also have the option to purchase a sitewide license for an unlimited number of users at a cost of $9,999.99 per year.

It's worth noting that Devolutions, the company behind Remote Desktop Manager, offers enterprise-scale solutions and lifetime licenses as well. For pricing options on these, reaching out to the company directly is necessary.

Remote Desktop Manager: Overview

Remote Desktop Manager is a powerful software designed to centralize all your connections, passwords, and remote working tools into a single platform. This manager makes it easy to handle a wide range of technologies, including RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol), SSH (Secure Shell), VPNs (Virtual Private Networks), Web, VNC (Virtual Network Computing), and more. 

Primarily intended for IT departments, RDM supports a collaborative environment and offers a secure way to store, share, and manage remote connections and virtual machines. Compatible with Windows and macOS, Remote Desktop Manager is aimed at professionals who can control remote servers or workstations, offering both efficiency and security.

Remote Desktop Manager makes remote computer access seamless. The software includes an integrated password manager, enabling you to open remote connections in just one click. Suppose you are already using a password manager. In that case, Remote Desktop Manager will likely work with it, as it integrates with around a dozen of the most popular tools, including Dashlane and LastPass.

Remote Desktop Manager review

Remote Desktop Manager supports role-based access to login credentials. (Image credit: Devolutions)

Importantly, Remote Desktop Manager is capable of accessing much more than just networked desktop computers. You can use the software to manage cloud accounts with Amazon S3, Dropbox, Microsoft SQL Azure, and more, all from a single interface. Remote Desktop Manager also supports linking to server systems, network drives, and just about any other network tools your business might be running.

Another advantage to this platform is the encrypted, centralized vault that stores login credentials for different services across your network. Remote Desktop Manager supports role-based access to this vault, allowing administrators to control which IT technicians can access which parts of the network. That’s a major help for large businesses that have multiple IT teams working across different departments.

Remote Desktop Manager: Setup 

Setting up Remote Desktop Manager is fairly quick, depending on the size of your network and whether you need to create tiered access to a credential vault.

The best place to start after installing the program is to add your network data into the system for quick access in the future. Some of this can be automatically imported using a variety of add-ons, but you’ll probably end up entering a fair amount of information by hand. Thankfully, the data categories are well organized and searchable.

Remote Desktop Manager review

Data categories are organized and searchable.  (Image credit: Devolutions)

What takes a little bit longer is setting up a centralized vault for your IT management team and creating access roles. That’s because you’ll not only need to set up a vault and add users but also generate login credentials for each of them and set the access parameters for different roles.

Still, the process is relatively smooth and won’t take more than a few hours for IT teams running a small network. IT administrators that need to coordinate managers across multiple departments may spend up to a few days working out access issues and creating sub-vaults.

Remote Desktop Manager: Interface and performance 

It’s hard not to love the interface of the Remote Desktop Manager desktop app. We tested it on a Windows computer, and it feels extremely intuitive, with the menu bar mimicking the design of Windows File Explorer. On top of that, you can have an unlimited number of tabs open to manage multiple simultaneous connections in a single window. 

Remote Desktop Manager

The Remote Desktop Manager Windows 10 interface.  (Image credit: Devolutions)

Even better, Remote Desktop Manager is available on iOS and Android mobile devices. Unsurprisingly, the mobile apps are significantly more limited than the desktop platform, and you wouldn’t want to use them for your initial network setup. But, they’re straightforward to use if you need to access passwords or to change user permissions on the go.

As for performance, we didn’t notice any significant lag when using Remote Desktop Manager on Windows 10. The platform launched in under 10 seconds, and connecting to a local network drive was nearly instantaneous. Just beware that the software itself is bulky—around 550 Mb—and used upwards of 22% of our available processing power when testing remote desktop control.

Remote Desktop Manager: Security 

Remote Desktop Manager takes network security extremely seriously. We’ve already talked about role-based access, which is essential for preventing unauthorized access. But, this remote desktop connection manager also supports security measures like two-factor authentication through Duo or Google Authenticator. You can even lock down the software before you walk away from your computer.

Remote Desktop Manager review

Remote Desktop Manager supports two-factor authentication. (Image credit: Devolutions)

Better yet, IT administrators get access to audit and activity logs. These keep track of all login attempts that use credentials from Remote Desktop Manager-linked password managers or the central vault. 

Remote Desktop Manager: Support 

Devolutions provides phone and email support for Remote Desktop Manager by phone and email. The support team is available from 8 AM to 5 PM Eastern, five days a week. 

Remote Desktop Manager review

Support options for Remote Desktop Manager. (Image credit: Devolutions)

If you need help outside those hours, you have a couple of different options. First, check the online documentation, which is rich with tutorial videos. If that doesn’t have an answer for you, Devolutions also publishes a 1,100-page user manual for Remote Desktop Manager. Finally, the company runs an online community forum where you can ask other IT professionals for help.

Remote Desktop Manager: Pros and cons

There’s a lot to love about Remote Desktop Manager and a few things that might cause you some concern. Honestly, however, there’s more pros than cons. 

Pros include: 

1.  Centralization: RDM centralizes all remote connections on a single platform, simplifying access and control over various interfaces and systems.

2.  Security Features: It boasts powerful security features, including credential management, role-based access control, and auditing capabilities, which ensure that all remote sessions are both secure and compliant with company policies.

3.  Integration Capabilities: Remote Desktop Manager integrates well with over 60 third-party applications, including password managers like LastPass and KeePass, and online services such as Dropbox and Google Drive.

4.  User-Friendly Interface: The interface is intuitive. Users find navigation easy, allowing users of all tech levels to manage their resources efficiently.

5.  Session Management: It enhances workflow by managing multiple sessions with tabs and dockable windows, much like a web browser, plus it supports remote machine data entries.

6.  Team Collaboration: RDM excels in environments where teams need to collaborate as it supports multiple users and permits the sharing of remote session settings with stringent security.

Cons:

1.  Complexity for Small Teams or Individuals: For smaller teams or individual users, RDM might be overwhelming due to its extensive suite of features and capabilities which they may not need.

2.  Cost: While it offers a free edition, the full benefits of RDM are realized through its paid versions, which might be a significant expense for smaller organizations or startups.

3.  Resource Heavy: Some users report that the software can be resource-intensive, especially when managing several connections simultaneously. This might affect performance on less powerful machines.

4.  Learning Curve: Despite its intuitive user interface, the sheer number of features and settings can be daunting for new users, requiring some time to fully master.

5.  Dependency on Internet Connection: Like many remote management tools, a stable and robust internet connection is crucial for RDM to function effectively, which can be a limitation in areas with poor connectivity.

Remote Desktop Manager: Final verdict 

Remote Desktop Manager is well-suited for managing remote connections and credentials, particularly for medium to large IT departments. Its centralized approach, robust security features, and team collaboration capabilities can significantly improve productivity and operational security.

However, potential users should carefully consider the tool's cost, resource usage, and complexity before deciding to implement it to ensure it meets their requirements. Smaller teams or individual users may find more streamlined tools to be a better fit.

Adopting Remote Desktop Manager should be based on a thorough assessment of your organization's managerial and technical needs. Its extensive features, designed for efficient management and secure operations, position it as a top choice in connection management solutions.

Remote Desktop Manager is one of medium to large businesses' best network management solutions. Including role-based access controls is particularly beneficial for IT administrators overseeing multiple teams across departments. Additionally, the wide range of integrations means you won't need to transition from existing password managers or authentication systems completely. On the other hand, smaller IT teams are likely to find that Remote Desktop Manager is excessive for simpler helpdesk and screen sharing needs.

The competition 

The closest competitors to Remote Desktop Manager are TeamViewer and AnyDesk. Both of these platforms are much less expensive than Remote Desktop Manager, especially if you only have a handful of IT managers. But, they’re much more limited in scope as well.

For example, TeamViewer gives your entire IT team remote network access for just $99 per month. But, that price only allows you to have one open session at a time. Getting three simultaneous sessions costs $199 per month. Remote Desktop Manager offers unlimited sessions at that price, although only for a single user.

AnyDesk is a bit more robust, as it supports unlimited concurrent sessions for $52.99 per month. But, the software is more oriented around enabling access to network computers than to also controlling cloud server connections. Small businesses may find that AnyDesk is a good alternative if you don’t need everything that Remote Desktop Manager offers.

To see how Remote Desktop Manager compares to other software on the market, check out our guide to the Best remote desktop software.

What to look for in a remote desktop solution

When considering an ideal remote desktop solution, it's essential to prioritize several critical features and factors to ensure seamless and secure access to your work from any location. To begin with, robust security measures are paramount. Look for a solution that offers end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security updates to safeguard your data from unauthorized access. Additionally, prioritizing ease of use is crucial. The software should feature a user-friendly interface that doesn't require extensive IT expertise to navigate, ensuring a smooth user experience.

Performance and reliability are also crucial considerations. Ensure the solution provides a seamless experience with minimal latency, even on slower connections. Compatibility is also vital. Look for software that supports various operating systems and devices, offering a consistent experience across all platforms. Furthermore, collaboration features such as file sharing, chat functionality, and supporting multiple users simultaneously can significantly enhance productivity.

Administrative tools and support are equally crucial for effectively managing the software, controlling access permissions, and receiving timely assistance during troubleshooting. Lastly, balance is vital when it comes to cost and features. Consider options that provide all necessary functionalities without exceeding your budget. Scalable solutions that can grow with your needs are also advantageous, avoiding needing a more comprehensive solution as your business expands.

LogMeIn Pro review: Tailoring remote access for professionals
6:16 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

In remote access solutions, LogMeIn Pro stands out with its robust features and reliable performance, catering to a wide range of users. With its secure and user-friendly interface, LogMeIn Pro provides professionals worldwide with seamless remote computer access. However, how does it perform in real-world scenarios, and is it the right choice for your needs?

LogMeIn Pro is a strong contender for those seeking business-oriented remote desktop software. It offers numerous business-focused features centered around secure desktop remote access and control. As a dedicated business solution, LogMeIn Pro surpasses many competitors, especially those that offer limited versions for home users. LogMeIn Pro provides unlimited user access, 1TB of file storage, support for multiple monitors, and top-notch security.

This blog post will explore LogMeIn Pro's advantages and disadvantages and identify the users who can most benefit from its features.

LogMeIn Pro pricing

(Image credit: LogMeIn)

 LogMeIn Pro: Plans and pricing

LogMeIn Pro offers different packages to cater to various users. 

1. Individual Package: Priced at $30 per month, this package is designed for lone users and provides access to up to two computers. It includes remote access, unlimited users, remote printing, 1TB file storage, multi-monitor display features, and the new LogMeIn Antivirus option.

2. Power Users Package: Priced at $70 per month, this package is suitable for users needing access to up to five computers. It includes all the features of the Individual Package and adds three free licenses to LastPass Premium for easier password management.

3. Small Businesses Package: Priced at $129 per month, this package is best suited for larger businesses as it allows access to 10 computers and includes five free licenses to LastPass Premium.

LogMeIn Pro review features

(Image credit: LogMeIn)

LogMeIn Pro: Features and utilities 

LogMeIn Pro is ideal for IT professionals and support teams who need robust security and comprehensive remote access features. It provides scalable solutions for companies of all sizes, allowing employees to work remotely or manage a distributed workforce. 

Additionally, LogMeIn Pro offers seamless access and file transfer capabilities for graphic designers, architects, and video editors who require access to high-powered desktop applications from remote locations. 

Educators and administrators can also use LogMeIn Pro to access school computers remotely, making it easier to work from anywhere or assist students and faculty with IT issues.

Users praise LogMeIn Pro for its range of features and functions, designed for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Its split display offers a straightforward preview of files and their locations, while drag-and-drop efficiency makes file and folder management more convenient than sending content via email. The program is also responsive, with an engineered setup for swift progress and a Wake On LAN feature for asleep computers. 

Whiteboard Drawing and Screen Record options, along with Multi-Monitor Support, round out its arsenal of features, offering users added flexibility and productivity.

LogMeIn Pro getting started

(Image credit: LogMeIn)

LogMeIn Pro: Setup 

We explored both of the setup options within the LogMeIn Pro configuration area and either makes for a quick and easy route. You’ll need to install the LogMeIn Pro Control Panel on the machine you wish to access. The LogMeIn Client software can be installed on Mac or Windows computers, along with iOS or Android devices too. We’re talking a few minutes to get this setup completed, making LogMeIn Pro very competitive in the no-hassle stakes.

LogMeIn Pro secure connections to host computers.

(Image credit: LogMeIn)

LogMeIn Pro: Interface and performance

Considering its beefy set of features and functions, LogMeIn Pro is actually really easy to use and much of this is down to its simple interface. If you're new to the software it’s useful to try out the Getting Started tab, which helps you familiarize yourself with many of the everyday tools. It’ll get you connected in no time. 

Similarly handy is the way it’s possible to send an invitation to a colleague, allowing them to view or control your machine as and when it’s needed. Abuse of this feature can be easily prevented too, thanks to a secure, time-sensitive link option, which limits the period of remote access. 

Client side access provides a view of all available computers and the subsequent access that is available. Another solid aspect here is the way that everything is nicely synced, including if you access via a mobile device or simply a desktop computer. LogMeIn Pro has been around long enough now that all of this is delivered painlessly and very efficiently too, again with little in the way of lag.

LogMeIn Pro managing user profiles and access

(Image credit: LogMeIn)

LogMeIn Pro: Security 

Being secure in a remote desktop access environment is another big consideration when choosing the right package for your business. LogMeIn has been in existence for years, so it’s fair to say that the levels of security continue to be excellent too. Host and client communications, and everything going backwards and forwards, is protected under the umbrella of SST/TLS (OpenSSL) security, which is akin to that used in the banking world. 

We’re also big fans of the LogMeIn Pro attention to detail when it comes to wider security. For example, unusual activity or failed log in attempts can be sent to you, or an IT manager as alerts. Similarly, managers can revoke user permissions when needed, either on a one-to-one basis or across an entire company user base.

LogMeIn Pro knowledge base with documentation and guides

(Image credit: LogMeIn)

LogMeIn Pro: Support 

If you’re a company owner or someone in an IT department that needs to deal with staff on a daily basis then support is always a plus. In that respect, LogMeIn Pro is especially appealing as it continues to offer telephone support. It can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Better yet, it’s available in over 15 different languages, which makes LogMeIn Pro one of the best remote access options out there in that respect. 

On top of that excellent support, LogMeIn Pro comes with plenty of user guides, articles on how best to milk its inner most secrets and, if all that wasn’t enough, there are community forums. Having been around for a while now, it’s safe to say that help and advice is always there if you need it. 

LogMeIn Pro: Pros and cons

When analyzing LogMeIn Pro, it's important to consider its various advantages and shortcomings.

LogMeIn Pro stands out for its seamless remote access capabilities, allowing users to effortlessly reach their desktops, files, and applications from anywhere, at any time. This high level of accessibility empowers professionals to remain productive, regardless of their location.

Security is a top priority in remote access, and LogMeIn Pro excels in this area. With robust 256-bit AES encryption, multi-factor authentication, and optional IP whitelisting, users can have peace of mind knowing that their remote sessions are well-protected against unauthorized access.

The software simplifies the transfer and sharing of files between remote and local computers, promoting collaboration among team members. This feature is especially beneficial for professionals who frequently work with large files or sensitive information.

A unique aspect of LogMeIn Pro is its remote printing capability, which allows users to print documents from a remote computer to a local printer. This functionality is convenient for professionals who need to print documents for meetings, presentations, or record-keeping.

For businesses with multiple users, LogMeIn Pro offers intuitive user management features. Administrators can easily add or remove users, assign specific computers, and set permissions, allowing for efficient management of remote access privileges.

Despite its comprehensive feature set, the pricing of LogMeIn Pro may deter some individuals and small businesses. The cost is higher compared to some competitors, so potential users should carefully assess the value it brings to their specific use cases.

Although LogMeIn Pro has an intuitive interface, some users may encounter a learning curve in fully utilizing all the advanced features it offers. Businesses may need to invest time in training employees to maximize the tool's potential.

While LogMeIn Pro generally provides stable and reliable remote access, users on slower internet connections might experience performance issues, such as latency or decreased video quality during remote sessions. This is an important consideration for users with specific connectivity requirements.

LogMeIn Pro: The competition 

Anyone looking for the best remote desktop access products will not be able to bypass LogMeIn Pro, but there are plenty of alternatives worth considering. That’s especially so if you’re not overly enthralled by the pricing of LogMeIn Pro’s three bundle options. A better value option may be Zoho Assist, which has an enterprise package that offers plenty of flexibility on the connectivity front, but for little in the way of outlay. 

Elsewhere, Remote Desktop Manager isn't cheap, but offers up lots of more sophisticated options for IT departments that need to manage differing levels of access more precisely. Zoho Assist is also good in that respect and that even has plenty of tools for offering customer support options too. Nevertheless, if you're happy to pay for the privilege, LogMeIn Pro will more than meet the needs of many businesses.

LogMeIn Pro: Final verdict 

One of the most appealing aspects of LogMeIn Pro is the excellent level of customer support. If you're an overburdened IT manager, this feature alone will probably convince you to give it a try. LogMeIn Pro also offers a great set of features and functions, making it universally appealing, especially with its strong security features that come as part of the package. However, the packages are quite pricey.

LogMeIn Pro stands out as a premium remote access tool, offering a mix of accessibility, security, and advanced features. Though its cost may be higher than some alternatives, the investment is justified for users who need a reliable, secure, and feature-rich remote access solution. By carefully considering the pros and cons, as well as their specific operational needs, potential users can make an informed decision on whether LogMeIn Pro is the best choice for their remote access needs. Whether you are an IT professional, a business owner, or a creative professional, LogMeIn Pro provides the tools and flexibility to keep you productive, no matter where you are.

What to look for in a remote desktop solution

Remote desktop solutions are indispensable tools for businesses in today's increasingly digital and flexible workplace. They allow employees to access their work environment anywhere. When evaluating remote desktop solutions for business use, several key considerations must be made to ensure that the chosen system meets your company's needs.

Security should be at the forefront of any decision-making process regarding remote desktop software. It's crucial to look for a solution that offers robust security features such as end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security updates to safeguard sensitive company data from unauthorized access and cyber threats.

Reliability is another critical aspect. Businesses should opt for a solution that guarantees high uptime. Solutions with a proven track record of minimal downtime will ensure your team can work efficiently without interruptions. This can often be assessed through service level agreements (SLAs) and by checking the provider's history regarding reliability and system maintenance.

Ease of Use influences how quickly your team can adapt and efficiently use the remote desktop application. The software should have an intuitive interface, straightforward connectivity processes, and compatibility across multiple devices and platforms. This ensures that staff can access their work regardless of their location or the technology they have at hand.

Performance is also an essential factor, as it impacts productivity. Look for solutions that promise fast connections with low latency and high-quality graphics rendering, mainly if your team works with graphics-intensive applications.

Scalability must be considered as your business grows and evolves. An excellent remote desktop solution should easily accommodate increasing users and seamlessly integrate with your current IT infrastructure without requiring significant upgrades or overhauls.

Customer Support offered by the provider is another pivotal consideration. Access to 24/7 customer support and technical assistance can drastically reduce downtime and resolve issues promptly, minimizing the impact on your business operations.

Cost-effectiveness plays a role in the final decision. Price structures vary widely, and businesses should analyze upfront and ongoing costs concerning the features offered. It is essential to balance the functionalities you require and the price you are willing to pay without compromising on the crucial features outlined above.

In summary, when looking for a remote desktop solution for your business, prioritize security, reliability, usability, performance, scalability, customer support, and cost-effectiveness. By carefully evaluating these aspects, businesses can select a solution that enhances productivity and aligns with operational requirements and strategic goals.

Chrome Remote Desktop review: a free solution that does the job
6:13 pm | March 27, 2020

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

Regarding remote desktop access, Chrome Remote Desktop is a popular choice for many users. It offers convenient and accessible solutions for both personal and business use. Although it may have some limitations for business purposes, its user-friendly interface and its free use still make it a compelling option.

In our comprehensive review of Chrome Remote Desktop, we have delved into its features, ease of use, and overall performance, comparing it with similar tools in the market. While there are paid alternatives with additional features, Chrome Remote Desktop's convenience and accessibility make it a strong contender and the top choice for those seeking a free remote desktop access solution.

Chrome Remote Desktop: plans and pricing

Chrome Remote Desktop is free, with no perks, subscriptions, or other premium content. To set up remote desktop access, you will simply be prompted to sign into your Google account.

Chrome Remote Desktop review

Chrome Remote Desktop is completely free with no ads. (Image credit: Google)

The program is available as a Chrome extension, so it can be used on any computer that supports Chrome. You can pair the target computer with another computer or with a mobile device running iOS or Android.

Chrome Remote Desktop: features and utilities

Chrome Remote Desktop provides several helpful features that streamline the experience and enable cross-device functionality. While using a desktop from another location can introduce some logistical problems, Chrome Remote Desktop makes it easy to avoid most common issues.  

Chrome Remote Desktop review

Remote Support streamlines the troubleshooting process. (Image credit: Google)

For example, if you’re using a mobile device, you can switch to keyboard or trackpad mode through the menu button on the lower-left corner. The app also includes dedicated menu options for Ctrl-Alt-Del and Print Screen.

We tested Chrome Remote Desktop by accessing a 2015 iMac through an iPhone SE. Unfortunately, the app was missing critical keys like Command, Control, and Option, so many important keyboard shortcuts were simply unavailable.

On the other hand, you should be able to use your computer remotely without any issues on another desktop or laptop. You can reconfigure key mappings as long as both devices have a physical keyboard. That said, Chrome Remote Desktop doesn’t let you transfer files between devices.

There’s also an option for Remote Support, which gives remote users a one-time code to access a desktop in order to troubleshoot any issues. This enables IT professionals to quickly fix problems without being physically present or receiving ongoing access

Chrome Remote Desktop: setup 

To set up Chrome Remote Desktop, start by downloading the browser extension on the computer you want to access. You can find the extension in the Chrome Web Store. After installation, you’ll be able to use remote desktop features through a button in the top-right corner (next to the favorites icon).

Chrome Remote Desktop review

Available devices are displayed under Remote Access. (Image credit: Google)

Once the extension is installed, you’ll only have to enter the name of the desktop along with a PIN to start accessing the computer remotely. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust permissions to give access to remote devices.

Of course, you should install Chrome Remote Desktop on any devices you want to use to access your desktop. You’ll be able to view all remote devices from the desktop or mobile app as long as every device is signed into the same account.

Chrome Remote Desktop: interface and performance 

Chrome Remote Desktop is highly responsive, with only a small delay as long as you’re using a strong internet connection. In our tests, the remote device was consistently within one-quarter of a second of the original display. The entire experience is extremely smooth, and videos look nearly identical on both screens. 

Chrome Remote Desktop review

Chrome Remote Desktop users can set a unique PIN for every remote device.  (Image credit: Google)

The program itself has a minimalist feel, with just a few functions and menus. In the desktop app, for example, the only options are to edit your computer’s name and PIN, connect to remote support, and ask for help. Since it runs on Google Chrome, you won’t be able to use it through any other browser. 

Chrome Remote Desktop: security 

Chrome Remote Desktop requires a PIN every time you try to access a device remotely. You can set and change PINs for each individual device. PINs have to be at least six characters long, but they only need to contain numbers. 

For Remote Support, the app provides a one-time access code which expires after the first connection. Users are asked to confirm that they still want to share their screen once every 30 minutes.

Chrome Remote Desktop: support 

To access the Help Center, just click “Help” in the desktop or mobile app. This page offers a simple guide for setting up remote access, sharing your computer, or removing the application. 

Chrome Remote Desktop review

The Help Center provides step-by-step guides for setting up Chrome Remote Desktop. (Image credit: Google)

If you’re still having trouble, you can also search the Help Community for similar issues or post your own question. While there’s an option to send feedback about the Help Center itself, there’s no way to contact Google directly for one-on-one support. Fortunately, most community posts get at least a few helpful replies. 

Chrome Remote Desktop: pros and cons

Pros and Cons

(Image credit: Generated with AI)

Google Chrome Remote Desktop is renowned for its straightforward setup process. It can be effortlessly installed as an extension within the Chrome browser, ensuring quick and convenient access. This user-friendly setup is particularly comforting for individuals who may not be tech-savvy.

One of Google Chrome Remote Desktop’s main advantages is its free use. This makes it an excellent option for individuals or small businesses needing remote access but limited IT resources.

Google Chrome Remote Desktop is designed to be compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chromebooks. This cross-platform support ensures that it can adapt to different hardware and software environments, making the audience feel accommodated.

Security is a crucial consideration when accessing a device remotely. Google Chrome Remote Desktop uses a secure connection, combining AES encryption and a PIN to access the desktop, providing a layer of security to protect your data.

Since it operates within the Chrome browser, no additional software is required to start the remote desktop session. This minimizes compatibility issues and reduces the hassle associated with software installation and maintenance.

Google Chrome Remote Desktop has fewer features than other remote desktop solutions like TeamViewer or Microsoft Remote Desktop. It does not offer file transfer, session recording, or remote printing capabilities, which may be a drawback for advanced users.

The performance of Google Chrome Remote Desktop heavily relies on the internet connection quality. If the connection is unstable or slow, it can significantly affect the usability and responsiveness of the remote desktop, making it challenging to work smoothly.

As the name suggests, Google Chrome Remote Desktop works exclusively within the Google Chrome browser. This might be limiting if you prefer using a different browser or encountering issues with Chrome.

In terms of functionality, Google Chrome Remote Desktop may not be suitable for larger enterprises that require detailed administrative controls, monitoring capabilities, and enhanced security protocols. Such enterprises need sophisticated management tools to manage a large number of machines remotely.

Chrome Remote Desktop: final verdict 

Chrome Remote Desktop provides excellent performance and accessibility for accessing a remote Mac, Windows, and Linux desktop. Although the mobile app doesn't offer all the same features, it's still a decent option for remote desktop access. Chrome Remote Desktop's Remote Support tool is well-suited for support situations. 

However, the application's lack of features like drag-and-drop file transfers, remote printing, and live chat between devices makes it less efficient in some scenarios. Additionally, live support is not available if you encounter any issues. Overall, Chrome Remote Desktop is a simple option but lacks several critical features for various business needs. 

Google Chrome Remote Desktop is a free and accessible solution ideal for individuals or small businesses requiring primary remote access. While it provides benefits such as ease of use, cross-platform support, and security, it may not suit users needing advanced features like file transfers, administrative controls, or those managing large IT infrastructures. Choosing the right tool will depend mainly on your specific needs and the scale at which you need to operate.

Chrome Remote Desktop: the competition 

The main advantage of Chrome Remote Desktop over similar options is its free cost and convenience. You can easily share your desktop using Chrome and access it on various devices using your existing Google account. However, it does lack some key features that are available in paid solutions.

For instance, RemotePC allows drag-and-drop file transfers between host and client computers, and users can print documents stored on the remote desktop without transferring them to the computer they’re physically using. Like many other paid solutions, RemotePC also offers 24/7 support to help troubleshoot the application and resolve any issues.

To find our more about Chrome Remote Desktop's competition, read our Best remote desktop software guide.

What to look for in a remote desktop solution

In today's interconnected world, accessing a computer remotely has become convenient and essential for many businesses and individuals. Remote desktop solutions bridge the gap between geographical distances, enabling support, file access, and even full-scale operations from afar. However, with many options available, what should you zero in on when selecting remote desktop software? Here's a comprehensive guide.

Ease of Setup and Use: A complex setup can be a deterrent. Look for a solution that offers a straightforward installation process and an intuitive user interface. The less time you spend figuring out how to use the software, the more productive you'll be.

Quick Connectivity: Establishing a connection with minimal steps is crucial. Some remote desktop solutions offer features like 'unattended access' that allow connections without requiring someone to be physically present at the host machine to accept them.

Versatility: An ideal remote desktop solution should accommodate various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and even mobile platforms like Android and iOS. This ensures you can connect across devices without compatibility issues.

End-to-End Encryption: Given the sensitive nature of accessing a device remotely, encryption is non-negotiable. Look for robust encryption solutions to guard against unauthorized access and data breaches.

Authentication Mechanisms: Advanced authentication options such as two-factor authentication (2FA) or one-time access codes add layers of security, reducing the risk of compromise.

Speed and Responsiveness: A remote desktop tool should provide a seamless experience, mimicking the experience of using the host computer directly as closely as possible. High performance, without lag, is essential, especially for resource-intensive applications.

Stable Connection: Frequent disconnections or unstable connections can significantly impede productivity. A reliable remote desktop application maintains its performance even under less-than-optimal network conditions.

File Transfer: Quickly transferring files between the host and remote device is crucial for efficiency. Ensure the software supports straightforward, drag-and-drop file transfers.

Multi-Monitor Support: A remote desktop solution should allow users who use multiple monitors to access all screens without cumbersome workarounds.

Session Recording: This feature, useful for training and security purposes, allows you to record activities performed during a session for later review.

Customer Support and Resources: Even with the most user-friendly software, you might encounter issues or have questions. Look for a provider that offers comprehensive support through various channels, such as live chat, email, or phone. Additionally, a robust knowledge base or community forums can be invaluable resources.

Pricing and Licensing: Analyze the cost relative to the features offered. Some solutions provide free versions with limited capabilities, which may suffice for individual use or small teams. However, evaluating the total cost of ownership, including any subscription fees or additional charges for premium features, is essential for larger organizations or specific needs.

Choosing the right remote desktop solution requires balancing your needs against what's available. Before deciding, consider ease of use, cross-platform support, security, performance, features, support, and pricing. A deliberate choice upfront can save you from future frustrations and ensure a smooth, secure, and efficient remote work experience.

pCloud cloud storage review
7:30 pm | March 26, 2020

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets | Comments: Off

We’ve tested some of the best cloud storage services out there, and no list would be complete without pCloud. The Swiss-based service has an impressive list of features at a price point that make it a very appealing choice for sharing large files with friends and family or to sync them across all your devices.

But how does a product released in 2013 fare in a market dominated by mature platforms like Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, Box and the rest of the field? 

pCloud: Pricing & plans 

One of the big draws for pCloud is the competitively priced plans. You can register for one of the best free cloud storage accounts, nabbing up to 10GB in the process. However, like Internxt, there are hoops you’ll need to jump through to maximize the free storage capacity.

When we activated a free account, we found 5GB waiting for us. If you choose "unlock more space", you're asked to invite more friends to sign up to pCloud. If they do so, you'll receive 1GB of extra free storage per friend. Sign ups from the same IP address are limited to 10 to prevent abuse. Signing up friends also enters you into a free competition where you can win 500GB free storage. On the free tier, you can also use the service to send files up to 5GB in size that can optionally be encrypted as well.

Broadly speaking there are two paid plans depending on the amount of data you need to share - the company also frequently runs deals and discounts, too. 

The Premium plan offers 500GB and costs $50 a year. The 2TB Premium Plus is priced at $100 a year.

Unlike most of its peers, pCloud offers a one-time payment plan that’s valid for 99 years. Premium and Premium Plus cost $200 and $400 respectively if you opt for the one-off cost over an on-going subscription. 

A Family plan, offering 2TB of shared storage space among up to five pCloud users, is available with a lifetime purchase only for $595.

Business users are limited to a subscription-based membership. This costs $10 a month or $96 per year, per user. A minimum of three users is required. Each user gets access to 1TB of storage and 180 days’ of file versioning, compared with the standard 30 days for personal plans.

All pCloud accounts, whether free or paid, offer the same set of features. However there are a couple of add-on services that you can subscribe to for added benefits. 

One is called Extended History. By default pCloud retains files you’ve deleted for 15 days in the Free plan and 30 days with the Premium plans. However you can extend this period to 360 days for $80 a year. pCloud Crypto, which adds client-side encryption to your account for $50. With this add-on you have the ability to encrypt your data in a dedicated 'crypto drive' folder using a multi-layered algorithm. 

pCloud cloud storage service in action showing different pricing plans

(Image credit: pCloud)

pCloud: Interface & experience 

If you’ve ever ambled down a typical street in Geneva or Zurich, you’ll immediately recognize the same regimented and refined air carried across the cloud storage app. Visiting the country, we were struck by how clean and tidy the whole place was, as it’s immaculate for the most part. The same can be said for pCloud.  

That’s not to say that this is the best designed cloud storage solution on the market. Frankly, the interface can sometimes feel a little aged. But we found the parallels irresistibly hard to ignore. 

To get started you can register with the service manually or use the single sign-on to log in with your Apple ID, Google or Facebook accounts. Out of the box, the service has a handful of folders with sample data to help you get started by exploring its sharing features.  These include some colorful pictures, music, a video and a PDF on getting started with pCloud. 

The service has impressive file manager features, letting you sort and search through shared files with relative ease. You can also search for files, then filter the results based on file types. It's all pretty much the same as using the same options as you get with the file manager in your operating system. 

For uploading, it’s just as simple. You’ll be dragging and dropping files from your desktop into the pCloud web app or using the upload manager. This option helps you keep an eye on the files as they are being uploaded into your pCloud account. 

To ensure you are using the service to the fullest, pDrive’s web interface has a six-step wizard at the top of the interface. For example, it’ll guide you to install the desktop and mobile apps. As an incentive, completing each step will unlock more storage space. 

The multi-platform desktop client is fairly intuitive, installing as a desktop applet in the status bar. It adds a virtual drive in your file manager, which is a mirror copy of your pCloud account, similar to how Dropbox operates. If you’re using an M1 Mac, you’ll likely need to reboot the device in a reduced security mode to allow the deeper integrations required by pCloud’s file syncing drive.

pCloud cloud storage service in action showing the website with the app displayed on a laptop and text encouraging downloads of the desktop app

(Image credit: pCloud)

Upon first install, we noticed that pCloud automatically created a network drive to install files. On our Windows 11 machine, appropriately enough it also assigned itself the drive letter 'P'.

Any files placed in this drive will automatically be synchronized with your pCloud account and can be accessed from anywhere using the web interface. They do not take up any space on your hard drive itself. 

There’s also an offline mode that makes the shared files available to you on your computer even when you aren’t connected to the internet. This allows you to work on the files while you are offline and then automatically sync the changes as soon as you're connected to the Internet. 

You have the option of directly sharing files with your friends and family from the pCloud virtual drive. To share a folder you can send email invitations using pCloud and select whether you want to allow them to edit the contents of the shared folder or just view its contents. pCloud lists two separate URLs if you want to share using links. There’s one that’ll allow the recipients to download the contents of the folder and another if you want them to be able to upload content into the folder as well.

The mobile app offers one additional option - a setting to upload videos and photos to pCloud directly from your phone. By default it’ll upload all photos and videos but you can tweak its settings to restrict uploads. 

Besides their desktop client, pCloud also offers browser extensions for Firefox, Chrome, and Opera. Once installed, you can use the extension to save audio, video and pictures straight from a web page to your pCloud account. You can also save a selection of text that’s automatically saved as a text file. 

When it comes to using the browser for accessing your files, the process should be easy for most with things laid out as you would expect. The desktop client is full of features. We value the bandwidth throttling control, which by default is set to unlimited. However, we were disappointed to see that it's not possible to maximize the window in order to lay out all the options as clearly as possible. 

If you choose to try out the client-side encrypted drive pCloud Crypto, this should mean everything remains protected even from pCloud workers thanks to zero-knowledge security. Consequently, you need to make a note of your secure key because not even pCloud can help you gain access to lost files.  

pCloud cloud storage service in action showing local folder syncing

(Image credit: pCloud)

pCloud: Features 

pCloud offers all the essential features you’d expect from a sharing and syncing service. In addition to an intuitive web interface, pCloud also has clients for all the major desktop operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux as well as apps for Android and iOS. 

The service makes it easy to share individual or groups of files and folders without much effort. There is also no restriction on the size of the files you share as long as they are within the storage limits of your subscription plan, and upload and download speeds are also free of any restrictions.

Beyond sharing, you can use the desktop app to sync any local folder from your desktop to your pCloud account. Be aware that any files deleted in pCloud will also get deleted from their primary location on your computer, and vice versa.

On top of it, the service does block level syncing. This means the transfers will be a lot faster as only parts of the files that have changed need to be synced.

pCloud: Media support 

You can share all kinds of files on pCloud - but its handling of media files deserves special mention. The web interface of the service includes audio and video players that enable you to play the shared media files straight from pCloud itself. While a web browser that can play media is hardly sensational, we noticed that during our tests that when we opened a file from an audiobook, the interface automatically created a playlist. There's also a dedicated audio section in the pCloud web interface where you can manage your albums and playlists. 

Then there’s the video player that lets you watch the videos in picture-in-picture mode to help you continue using your browser while watching the video. You can even create slideshows for any shared images. 

Social media backups are also one of pCloud’s specialties. We found that without much effort, you can connect the service to popular social media sites like Facebook and Instagram, then backup images and videos on your accounts directly into pCloud. There is added support for OneDrive, Dropbox and Google Drive backups, too.

pCloud cloud storage service in action showing the app's built-in media player

(Image credit: pCloud)

pCloud: Apps

We found a good range of flexibility when it came to platform availability. On desktop, you can use Windows and macOS, with a Linux version available in AppImage format. There are cloud storage apps for Android and iOS. And web access is great, with extra functionality with the browser add-ons. Overall, a good package. 

pCloud: Security 

In terms of security, all the file transfers are conducted over a TLS/SSL encrypted channel to ensure that your data remains secure. pCloud also claims to replicate your files in five different server locations to safeguard against data loss and ensure availability. The service also offers two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security. 

Encryption is secured during file transfer and storage, however for a more complete guarantee non-business users will want to pay extra for client-side encryption which means that content is fully encrypted end-to-end. 

In fact, pCloud is so confident of their security, they offered $100,000 as part of the 'pCloud Encryption Challenge' to anyone who could break their system. None of the 2,860 participants could do it, even after six months of trying.

As reassuring as this is, we do wonder if pCloud would be better off publicly releasing the source code for their client-side encryption feature so it can be constantly reviewed and updated by the community. 

The service is also good at data control, letting you choose where you store your data - either in Luxembourg, which is part of the European Union, or its data center in Texas, USA. Swiss privacy laws are extremely strict and the company claims to be fully GDPR-compliant.  

pCloud: Our tests 

We ran three core tests on pCloud, measuring sync speed, file recovery and versioning. Our tests were done on a Windows 11 virtual machine running the pClouddesktop client.  The VM was connected to the internet via fiber broadband via VPN server, which in our speed tests consistently showed an average upload speed of 70 Mbps  

  • Test 1 - Sync speed

Our very first test involved syncing a folder containing 22 files of assorted MP3s, images, metadata files, and a PDF. When we opened the desktop client we set it up as a 'sync' folder. The status bar in the client gave us a helpful readout of the remaining files and amount of data left to upload as well as an ETA. It took a little over 96 seconds to sync the 625MB contained in the 22 test files. This means pCloud measures very well against the likes of iDrive, Internxt, and  Apple iCloud

pCloud cloud storage service in action showing file recovery

(Image credit: pCloud)
  • Test 2 - File recovery

In this test we simply deleted the now uploaded folder from the application directory, removing it from the device. After confirming deletion, we checked if it was possible to recover them. 

With a local folder and pCloud synced, we deleted the folder from My Documents, mindful of the warning of the desktop client that files removed from our device would also be removed from the cloud. However, when we looked, the folder was still in the pCloud network drive. We went into the client and removed the sync for the folder in question. The client didn't alert us that it was unable to sync the folder. 

We finally deleted the test folder from the pCloud network drive. When we logged into the web interface we saw the Trash option, then opened it to view and restore our deleted files without issue. 

pCloud cloud storage service in action showing file versioning

(Image credit: pCloud)
  • Test 3 - Versioning

File versioning is especially important if you’re working on a larger project and don’t want to lose all the changes you make. This means if you change something you shouldn't have, you can just roll the file back to before this happened.

On testing pCloud, we placed a copy of the test Microsoft Word document in the pCloud network drive and allowed it to sync. We then opened it and removed all text except the introduction, then allowed the updated file to sync with pCloud again.

When we logged into the web interface, the Word document immediately appeared under 'Files'. We right clicked and under "Revisions" found both the current version of the document and the original. In just two clicks we restored the original undamaged document to the network drive.

This is also where we learned that the free version of pCloud only stores file revisions for up to 15 days. If you want to extend this, you'll need a paid plan. 

pCloud: Verdict

pCloud is a clinically clean application that does what most people want from a cloud storage service, and the current pricing plan structure is a bargain across the board but particularly when it comes to lifetime plans.

Our only reservation is that it isn’t as slick a product as some other alternatives. Nor is 2TB considered a lot of storage by today’s standards. Taken as a monthly cost, $4.99 isn't much to add client-side encryption, though we were surprised that it and the 'Extended File History' feature aren't bundled in the cost of all lifetime plans as a 'free' extra. 

Overall, thanks to its incredible value for money and extensive list of features available to all users, it’s easy for us to recommend pCloud as a secure cloud storage platform to both individuals and families, however business may want more flexibility.

KWFinder review
1:53 pm | March 21, 2020

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

KWFinder by Mangools is a keyword research tool primarily designed to find long-tail keywords with low difficulty. Additionally, it provides extensive insights into keyword metrics, including search volume, keyword difficulty, and SERP analysis, which helps build a winning SEO strategy. It is a valuable tool for digital marketers, SEO experts, content creators, and website owners as it helps to enhance a website’s visibility. But, there is a lot that you must know about this tool before trying your hands on it.

That’s why this review focuses on examining its efficiency as a keyword research tool. We'll look at its features and user-friendliness and assess how it compares to other SEO tools to help you decide if KWFinder is the right tool for your SEO strategy or not.

KWFinder: Plans and pricing

KW Finder plans and pricing

(Image credit: KWFinder)

KWFinder offers four different plans. The Entry plan is ideal for beginners interested in trying out the basic features. This plan has limited access to essential features, including 25 keyword research per day, 25 SERP lookups, 50 keyword suggestions/searches, 50 keywords per import, etc. The price for this plan starts at $29 per month.

Next up is the Basic plan which comes with increased credits for various scans including 100 keyword research per day, 100 SERP lookups, 200 keyword suggestions/search, 200 keywords per import, unlimited track domains, 100,000 backlink rows per month, etc. Ideal for bloggers who work independently or small website owners, this plan starts from $49 per month.

The Premium plan provides 500 keyword research per day, 500 SERP lookups, 700 tracked keywords, 700 keywords per import, etc. It also offers Unlimited keyword suggestions/search, competitor keywords/search, and tracked domains. Ideal for small businesses or freelance SEO professionals, this plan starts from $69 per month.

Lastly, the Agency plan is ideal for large-scale companies or SEO agencies.

This top-tier plan has 1200 keyword research per day, 1200 SERP lookups, 1500 tracked keywords, and 700 keywords per import with 1,200,000 monthly backlink rows. On top of it, just like the Premium Plan, it also offers Unlimited keyword suggestions/search, competitor keywords/search, and tracked domains. The price for this plan starts at $129 per month.

KWFinder: Features

KWFinder features

(Image credit: KWFinder)

User Interface

With a simple and easy-to-navigate UI, KWFinder proves to be a great choice for bloggers and newcomers who prefer an organized layout. Compared to other keyword research tools we have tried, KWFinder is much easier to get used to. You can easily switch between services like keyword search and domain search, find out where your traffic is coming from, apply filters, etc. You can even distinguish between paid and organic searches and view details on click-through rates, price per click, and many more.

Keyword Research and Suggestions

Apart from its strong research capabilities, the tool is especially good at finding long-tail keywords that have low SEO difficulty. This is great for content creators looking to improve their search engine rankings. It further provides useful metrics like search volume, trend information, and a keyword difficulty score.

However, KWFinder does have some limitations. It mainly focuses on Google, so insights for other search engines are not as comprehensive. This can be a disadvantage for marketers who target platforms other than Google. Additionally, some users may find the daily search limits on the lower-tier plans to be restrictive, especially when working on large-scale SEO campaigns or while managing multiple clients.

SERP Analysis

One of the primary services of KWFinder is its super-powerful SERP Analysis. It gives you a snapshot of different key metrics like Page Authority (PA), Domain Authority (DA), Citation Flow (CF), and Trust Flow (TF) for each top-ranking page. This is vital when you want to analyze your competitor’s strengths. Along with this, you even get the estimated visits that the top pages receive for the keyword, giving you a clear picture of the traffic potential.

During the analysis, KWFinder also shows the Link profile, which is the number of external backlinks pointing to a page. Apart from these metrics, you can also analyze the social engagement of these pages through “Social Signals,” which can help you determine the content's popularity and engagement. Lastly, you can check the difficulty score for a keyword in this segment and do a quick quality check to assess your content throughout the website.

Competitor Analysis

Using this tool, users can check their competitors' ranking keywords and gain valuable insights into their content strategies. You can access SERP Checker metrics from Moz, Majestic, and other social shares by simply navigating to the "Analyze SERP" tab on the dashboard, and you are good to go. Such metrics include domain authority, backlinks, Facebook shares, visits, flow/trust flow, etc. In fact, you can choose from over 50 plus available metrics in this section.

Local SEO

If you’re running a small business and want to target an audience in that region, KWFinder goes a step ahead and delivers some top-notch local SEO support. First, you get to conduct keyword research for specific cities, towns, or even countries. This is crucial for businesses targeting customers in particular geographic areas. Additionally, you could also utilize the SERP Analysis feature to see who your competitors are in the targeted area and what kind of content ranks well. Be it the search volume, competitor analysis, or even your routine SEO analysis, KWFinder caters to all sorts of scans in a local region too.

KWfinder: Free tools

KWFinder by Mangools also comes with a range of free SEO tools to help seasoned and beginner SEO professionals make the most of their websites.

Browser extension

KWFinder’s browser extension provides a range of SEO metrics on your browser itself to give you a quick SEO analysis. It comes in very handy when you need to analyze websites quickly and without manually entering a search on the tool. This extension includes information on keywords, backlinks, and page authority, all giving a comprehensive overview without the hassle of switching between different apps and websites. The extension is especially beneficial for on-the-go research and competitor analysis. Plus, this tool saves your time and increases work efficiency.

 SERP simulator tool

The SERP simulator tool is a helpful resource that shows you how your webpage could look in search results. It shows you the title, meta description, and URL so you can make them as catchy as possible before your page is live. This tool is super helpful for fine-tuning your SEO elements to make sure your pages are not only search engine-friendly but also user-friendly and attractive in search results. Being able to see and make changes in real time makes the SERP Simulator an essential tool in the SEO toolbox.

SERP Volatility tracker

The SERP Volatility Checker helps you keep an eye on any changes happening in search engine result pages. It notifies you about important updates or changes in search algorithms. This is really important for staying ahead in the SEO game. It lets you know when you need to make changes to your strategies or see how they are impacting your website's performance.

KWFinder: Performance and reliability

Performance-wise, KWFinder shines with its quick and efficient search capabilities. The tool's interface is a highlight, characterized by its straightforwardness and ease of use, eliminating the need for extensive learning curves.

When it comes to reliability, KWFinder consistently delivers. Our tests found that the tool offers spot-on search volume estimates and keyword difficulty ratings that align well with actual search engine outcomes. This level of accuracy is crucial for users seeking dependable data to guide their keyword selection efforts.

Moreover, KWFinder offers features such as historical search volume trends, SERP analysis, and localized search results, which are invaluable for users aiming to tailor their SEO efforts to specific markets or time frames. Its ability to filter keywords by criteria such as search volume, CPC, and competition level helps SEO experts efficiently pinpoint the most relevant opportunities.

KWFinder: The competition

KWFinder faces tough competition, especially from established competitors like Semrush, Ahrefs, and Moz. Semrush is known for its wide range of SEO tools, including site audits and competitor analysis. Similarly, Ahrefs is strong in backlink analysis and has a great keyword research tool. On the other hand, Moz is popular for its easy-to-use interface and offers various SEO tools like keyword research and link-building strategies. Each competitor has its own strengths, so it isn't surprising for users to have a change of mind due to their specific needs and preferences.

KWFinder: Support

KWFinder 4

(Image credit: KWFinder)

KWFinder’s tech team is available 24/7 through email and live chat for quick help. This is great for users present in different time zones or for those who work till late. And, if you’re a nerd who likes to learn everything in and out about SEO, KWFinder offers lots of technical guides and blogs.

The FAQs and knowledge base on KWFinder's website have enough information to help you solve problems, learn about new features, or improve your use of the tool. Also, KWFinder has a YouTube channel with detailed videos and tutorials, all guiding you to make the most of this keyword research tool.

KWFinder: Final verdict

KWFinder stands out as a user-friendly and efficient tool for keyword research, especially appealing to beginners. Plus, with an easy-to-navigate interface, finding and assessing keywords becomes effortless, too. This makes it a strong contender among the giant SEO brands available in the market. While it is an excellent starting point for those new to SEO, its keyword cap can be a limitation for more extensive searches, pushing advanced users towards higher plans or alternatives.

To sum up, KWFinder offers a balance of simplicity and powerful research features, making it a valuable tool for SEO experts of all levels. Which is your favorite feature of KWFinder, and what do you expect from it next? Let’s carry the conversation in the comments below.

Paragon Backup and Recovery review
7:36 pm | March 19, 2020

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

Paragon Backup and Recovery is one of the most popular and venerable pieces of backup software around – we’re currently on version 17, after all – and it emerges from the specialists at Paragon, who have been producing data and storage apps since 1994.

Now, in their thirtieth year, Paragon apps are used by companies like ASUS, Intel, Microsoft, Nvidia and Siemens, so there’s clearly some pedigree here when it comes to protecting data for businesses of all sizes.

To see how Paragon Backup and Recovery performs against other data recovery software, read our Best data recovery software buying guide.

Paragon Backup and Recovery: Plans & pricing

Happily, Paragon Backup & Recovery has a free Community Edition, but be aware that it’s restricted in terms of functionality – you can backup files, folders, disks, and operating systems, but you can’t create partitions, copy disks, receive notifications or use it with Windows Server.

Paragon Backup and Recovery Community Edition's web page

(Image credit: Paragon Software)

If you need those features, you’ll have to switch to Paragon Backup & Recovery Business, but its pricing is calculated on a case-by-case basis, so you’ll need to get in touch with Paragon for a quote.

A Mac version is free for personal use and compatible with Mac OS Catalina, with Big Sur support coming soon.

Paragon Hard Disk Manager is a comparable product that offers backup and recovery features, too, alongside partitioning, erasing, data recovery and disk management. For many businesses, it’s an ideal all-around option.

A Workstation lifetime licence for one device costs $99, and a lifetime Server licence for one device costs $499 – both of those options include one year of technical support.

Technician and Enterprise work on multiple devices with licensing that operates on a subscription model, and prices start at $599 and $899.

Those prices are reasonable when compared to other high-end products. EaseUS’ Technician versions start at $999, so it’s more expensive. Aomei’s Technician Plus includes server backup and costs $699.

The Paragon Backup and Recovery backup overview screen.

(Image credit: Paragon)

Features

Although Paragon Backup and Recovery can be overwhelming for new users, it offers extremely robust functionality. Users can adjust backup preferences using numerous criteria including the type of backup, frequency, and retention. There’s also an option to develop scenario-based backups based on your specific needs. 

Scheduling a backup in Paragon Backup and Recovery

(Image credit: Paragon)

As backup storage accumulates, users can determine which files should be deleted. If your OS is no longer operable,you can boot from a USB drive for a full restoration within the Windows Preinstallation Environment. Mac users can restore from a backup through Recovery mode.

Entire PCs, specific disks, and files and folders can all be backed up easily, and local drives, folders, and network locations are all available as destinations.

The scheduling options are extensive, backups can be made using Paragon’s own imaging format, VMWare images, MS Virtual PC images or Microsoft Hyper-V images, and they can be encrypted or protected with passwords.

Version control helps you ensure that you’ve always got the most up-to-date backups, and you can ask the app to manage your disk space by automatically deleting backup images based on your parameters.

Backup splitting is supported, and there are different speed settings if you want to devote more of your PC’s resources to backups. You can run scrips or apps before and after your backups – or asynchronously.

Paragon’s apps support the creation of bootable USB media, restoration is simple, and you can mount backup images like drives to your PC to navigate and restore files and folders easily.

That’s a solid slate of backup features for home and small business users, and you get similar functionality if you opt for the Mac version. Users can backup to APFS, HFS+ or exFAT formatted disks, and disks previously formatted to Windows, and complete system migrations are supported.

If you run a larger or more complex business, though, you’ll have to head over to Paragon Hard Disk Manager.

That app protects physical and Hyper-V machines with partitioning, drive and partition management, Windows Server support and restoration options all within the app. More robust scheduling options are available in Hard Disk Manager, and you can clone devices and drives, erase drives, and manage systems across your entire organization depending on which version you buy.

Interface & use

Paragon’s apps have a very intuitive user interface. Everything is large and easy to find, and it follows the familiar blueprint of having main options on the left-hand side and configuration options in the middle of the screen.

Paragon Backup and Recovery's backup operations screen

(Image credit: Paragon)

Graphics show the progress of your backups, the various advanced options are laid out cleanly and clearly, and the entire app feels spacious and modern – it’s not intimidating and complex like loads of other backup tools.

It offers reasonable speeds, too. We tested our latest slate of backup apps with a 42GB document folder, a 2.5GB spreadsheet folder, a 162GB folder of media and an 82GB file that mixes all of those file types. We backed them up to three different SSDs to weed out any inconsistency.

Paragon’s best performance came when working with documents and Excel spreadsheets, where its averages of 4 minutes 34 seconds and 1 minute 28 seconds were among the fastest among the twenty backup apps we’ve recently tested.

When working with media and a folder of mixed files, its averages of 19 minutes and 56 seconds and 24 minutes and 37 seconds were mid-table and not particularly special. EaseUS and Acronis’ rival products were both consistently faster, although Aomei Backupper was slower.

There was little difference between Paragon’s Windows app and the Mac version. And while Paragon is never slow, it’s clearly better at handling documents and spreadsheets than media files.

Configuring a bootable USB drive streamlines the process of recovering from a damaged OS. In short, you should be able to respond to any issues and quickly get your system back to normal.

The application itself is just 189 MB for 64-bit Windows 10, making it a quick download on most connections. Its clean interface and thorough customization options offer robust functionality without sacrificing ease of use.

Support

Paragon provides several informative support resources for Backup and Recovery users. The Knowledge Base is a starting point for any problems with the application. This section contains troubleshooting guides on crashes, installation, activation, and other common issues. 

If users need individual support, they can submit a ticket on Paragon’s website. Free support is available for nine hours a day on weekdays, and the first response can take up to three days. If you pay for an Enterprise-level product or for a per-incident support package, the support lines are open for fourteen hours a day, and you can expect a response within four hours. Phone support is also available.

The Knowledge Base offers answers to some of the most common questions.

(Image credit: Paragon Software)

Competition

Some of Paragon’s rivals are more expensive but do offer more features, so if you need cloud support, an active support forum or more granularity, then products from EaseUS and Aomei are more expensive but more capable.

That said, Paragon is a fine home and small business backup tool, and its Technician and Technician Plus versions will work well in many medium-sized enterprises too.

And don’t discount the free version – while some free rivals are hobbled by restrictions and adverts, Paragon’s free product is an effective and unburdened home backup tool that we recommend.

Verdict

Paragon Backup and Recovery lacks some features, including online backups and an active support forum. That said, it contains most of the tools you need to store data and consistently update your backups, and it outperforms many other free hard drive recovery programs. You can also use Paragon to prepare a WinPE bootable environment as an ISO image or through a USB drive, making it easy to recover data after experiencing problems with your operating system.

Additionally, Paragon Backup and Recovery is extremely easy to use and accessible to people unfamiliar with the process of backing up files, and its paid versions offer rock-solid core functionality for small and medium businesses.

Other products cost more and offer more functionality, but Paragon Backup & Recovery and Hard Disk Manager offer good slates of features and its free version is a hit.

CrashPlan review
7:33 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets | Comments: Off

If you’re looking for the best data recovery software, it’s worth taking a close look at CrashPlan. This data recovery and backup platform is one of the simplest options for small businesses. There’s no limit on the number of computers or servers you can have on your account, and no storage limits for individual devices.

 CrashPlan: Plans and pricing

CrashPlan’s pricing is about as simple as it gets. After a one-month free trial, just pay $10 per month per computer you want to back up. We say 'computer' because at the time of writing, there's still no CrashPlan mobile app. 

The only downside to signing up for the free trial is that you'll need to provide a valid credit card number for sign up and remember to cancel via your online CrashPlan if you decide not to continue with the trial. 

We also found that using a disposable virtual credit card number provided by our bank didn't work for signup so we had to use a permanent number instead.

The CrashPlan pricing scheme as of 2023

 CrashPlan charges just $10 per computer on your account per month. (Image credit: Crashplan)

There are no data storage limits on the connected devices and no limit on the number of computers you can add. That makes CrashPlan a lot cheaper than many cloud storage providers, including iDrive, pCloud, and Box, that charge by capacity. But, paying monthly can make this software pricey as a data recovery solution. 

CrashPlan: Features

CrashPlan is a little different to most data recovery platforms. In fact, it’s a file backup tool first and foremost. But, thanks to the fact that backups are unlimited, it’s easy to use it as a way to recover deleted or corrupted files as well. 

CrashPlan review

You can customize your versioning settings to better recover after a ransomware attack.  (Image credit: CrashPlan)

CrashPlan comes with its own unlimited cloud storage space, which serves as the default launch point for file recovery. But, you can also back up files to multiple storage locations at the same time. That means you can create one or more physical recovery hard drives as well as keep a catalog of files for recovery in the cloud.

CrashPlan comes with unlimited cloud storage space, the interface for which serves as the default launch point for file recovery. You can also back up files to multiple storage locations at the same time.

That means you can create one or more physical recovery hard drives as well as keep a catalog of files for recovery in the cloud. The online web portal allows you to inspect individual devices and even end backups or remove them altogether.

With file versioning, you’re able to keep old versions of files indefinitely: a significant amount of control over your data in the cloud. That’s vital when recovering from file corruptions or ransomware, since you may need to go back a few versions to find a clean copy of your damaged files.

CrashPlan: Client and client setup

CrashPlan is available as a desktop platform for macOS, Windows, and Linux computers, or it can be installed on Linux servers. There’s also a web client that enables you to schedule backups.

The lack of a mobile app isn't so bad: you can, in a roundabout way, back up the contents of mobile devices to a computer that's then backed up with CrashPlan. But it's not ideal.

CrashPlan is truly cross-platform otherwise: there are both 32-Bit and 64-Bit versions available for Windows, and a macOS client. The Linux client will also run on any distro that's compatible with Red Hat or Ubuntu.

The CrashPlan file restore feature

CrashPlan’s file restore interface.  (Image credit: CrashPlan)

The software tags files by folder location rather than file type, which can be both good and bad. Making sure you’re backing up all your files to a recovery drive or your cloud space is straightforward, but it's also too easy to forget to tag a folder for backup.

CrashPlan: Performance 

For us, CrashPlan's upload performance was disappointing out of the box. The software took a full 20 minutes to upload a 1 GB file to the cloud on a 25 Mbps connection— about four times as long as expected. 

Turning off data deduplication in the program’s advanced settings made a huge difference - that same 1 GB file uploaded in under five minutes - but that's something to bear in mind.

The CrashPlan backup feature

With CrashPlan, you can to choose multiple data storage locations, including local drives.  (Image credit: Crashplan)

Downloading was much better from the start. We were able to download the 1 GB file in just under four minutes with a 44 Mbps connection.

Since CrashPlan mostly operates in the background, the occasional lengthy upload won’t be a huge issue for many users. On top of that, CrashPlan offers incremental transfers and block-level sync, so most file uploads shouldn’t be particularly large after your initial backup. 

Unfortunately, CrashPlan doesn't offer multi-threaded backup and recovery, so large recoveries may take a while.

CrashPlan: Efficiency 

One of the biggest advantages to CrashPlan is that not only can you set the software to continuously back up files from your computer to the cloud, but also schedule periodic transfers, seamlessly incorporating the application into your workflow.  

Crashplan's backup throttling settings

Usage settings allow you to throttle your backups to limit the amount of processing power used. (Image credit: CrashPlan)

It’s also worth noting that CrashPlan gives you the option to throttle your file transfers to save bandwidth. This setting is sensitive to when your computer is idle, so it’s easy to have the bulk of your uploads take place overnight. 

CrashPlan: Support 

Crashplan's dedicated support pledge - chat and email, Monday to Friday

CrashPlan support is available by chat, email, or phone during normal business hours. (Image credit: Crashplan)

If you’re having trouble figuring out how to recover deleted files, you can get in touch with CrashPlan’s support team by live chat, email, or phone. Phone and chat support are only available during normal US business hours Monday to Friday. 

Email help is available 24/7, although you may wait several hours for an answer if you send a request during the middle of the night in the US.

For questions about the software and data restoration, CrashPlan also has an extensive online documentation library. Most of the help articles come with walkthrough videos, which is helpful when you’re first learning the software.

CrashPlan: Final Verdict 

While CrashPlan is backup software first, it doubles nicely as a recovery tool that's incredibly easy to use and so perfect for small businesses to create their physical and cloud backups with.  

Our biggest gripe remains that the interface requires you to tag specific folders for storage and recovery, making setting up automated backups time-consuming.

CrashPlan: The Competition 

However, CrashPlan won’t help you get files off of a damaged or reformatted drive without an existing backup. If that’s what you need, check out Data Rescue 5 or OnTrack EasyRecovery.

As for hybrid backup and recovery solutions, Backblaze is the closest competitor to CrashPlan. It’s a bit cheaper, starting at just $5 per computer per month. But, you lose out on advanced file versioning options and the ability to back up to physical drives as well as the cloud. 

To see how CrashPlan performs against other data recovery software, read our Best data recovery software buying guide.

CrashPlan: how we tested

Our tests were done on a Windows 11 virtual machine running the CrashPlan desktop client. 

Our VM was connected to the internet via fiber broadband via VPN server, which in our speed tests consistently showed an average upload speed of 70 Mbps 

We ran a total of 3 tests measuring sync speed, file recovery and versioning.

Test 1 - Sync Speed

We ran a backup of our local 'Documents' folder, which contained a 650 MB folder of Sherlock Holmes audio books from the Internet Archive

We measured how quickly the desktop client was able to sync the files to the cloud. The folder contained 22 files including MP3s, images, metadata files, a PDF and a Word document.

Test 2 - File Recovery

We then deleted the audiobook folder and checked to see if the files had been removed from the cloud backup drive and if it was possible to recover them.

Test 3  - Versioning

If you're writing a long, important document, like a novel, the last thing you want is to make changes that you can't roll back.

Many cloud backup providers prevent this by regularly saving different versions of a file, so if you change something you shouldn't have, you can just revert a file back to how it was on a previous date.

To test this in CrashPlan, we copied a Microsoft Word (.docx) file of the public domain story 'The Purple Cloud' to the cloud application folder. Once it synced, we then deleted all the text except the introduction, then saved and closed. We then tried to restore the document back to its original form, complete with all chapters. 

We do our best to conduct tests fairly. However measuring metrics like upload speed are very difficult as it depends on a lot of factors including how many other people share your broadband connection, how busy your cloud providers servers are and naturally the speed of your own connection.

Sync software offered by cloud storage providers is also under constant development so by the time you read this, they may contain new features.

For this reason, you should use our test results as a guideline only. We always recommend trying out the 'free' tier for cloud storage providers to check if it's right for you before signing up.

How we tested CrashPlan's performance

Test 1 - Sync Speed

As we've discussed above, one of the areas in which CrashPlan fell short In our original 2020 tests was performance. 

However, in our most recent tests using an average upload speed of 17Mbps, the 'Documents' folder was able to sync in just over four and a half minutes. We'd usually have expected this amount of data to take at least 30 seconds longer, so were very impressed by CrashPlan's improvement in performance.

Test 2 - File Recovery

Once deleted, the 625MB of data in our test folder took only around 25 seconds to download back to the 'Documents' folder during the restore process.

Test 3 - Versioning

After modifying our word document, we ran a backup and found that we could once again choose "Restore Files", view the version history, and revert to the original.

CrashPlan: Security

According to CrashPlan's support pages, the client app encrypts all user data before it leaves endpoint devices for storage using AES 256-Bit encryption. Data is transit is also encrypted using TLS.

CrashPlan claim that no user data can be restored or decrypted without the owner's CrashPlan account name and password. However on the same page they also say that administrators with advanced console access can reset names and passwords, and decrypt and restore user data.

This means that if CrashPlan is hacked, your data is likely to be safe but your information might be at risk if a disgruntled employee tries to access it. 

Previously it seems it was possible for users to create their own custom encryption key but this is a legacy feature, only supported on accounts that originally had it. 

CrashPlan is closed-source, so it's impossible to verify how it implements encryption. If you're concerned about the privacy of your data, you may want to secure files with encryption software before backing up. 

We were pleased to see that CrashPlan Small Business accounts require 2FA (Two Factor Authentication). During setup, you'll need to use an authenticator app to scan a QR code and enter the six-digit code to continue creating your account. 

CrashPlan's competition

Backblaze is CrashPlan's closest competitor for a hybrid backup and recovery solutions, and It’s a bit cheaper, starting at just $5 per computer per month. However, you lose out on advanced file versioning options and the ability to back up to physical drives as well as the cloud. 

To see how CrashPlan performs against other data recovery software, read our Best data recovery software buying guide.

Ontrack EasyRecovery review
2:13 pm | March 17, 2020

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets | Comments: Off

Ontrack EasyRecovery claims to be one of the best data recovery software applications available on the market. It was developed by a provider of file recovery services who has been in business for 35 years. 

The program touts itself as being both simple to use as well as powerful enough to help you recover from a wide variety of data loss situations. 

Ontrack EasyRecovery: Plans and pricing

Several plans are available with Ontrack EasyRecovery. The Free plan, although it comes at zero cost, only provides 1GB of data recovery, so it’s only really useful for one-off recoveries. There's also a limit of 25MB for files, which made it unsuitable for our tests as some files were larger than this. 

The Home and Professional plans, which cost $59.99 and $99.99 on Windows and $69.99 and $99.99 on macOS, come with more useful options, including recovery from virus-infected drives, data from CDs and DVDs, and information due to server corruption. 

Ontrack EasyRecovery review

Higher tier plans are more expensive, but the Home, Professional, Premium, and Technician plans are competitively priced. (Image credit: Ontrack)

If you need more advanced data recovery features, you can upgrade to the Premium or Technician packages, which cost $109.99 and $199 for either Windows or macOS. 

These plans allow you to repair corrupt photos and videos and make clones of your HDDs or SSDs. The Technician plan comes with a license for commercial use and enables you to recover data from advanced RAID volumes, which are fault-tolerant storage drives.

The Toolkit plan, which is only available on Windows, costs $299. It can perform all of the recovery functions possible with the other plans but works with devices of every kind and can recover corrupt Linux files as well.

All of the prices quoted are for a one year license. For testing purposes we selected Ontrack EasyRecovery Premium, which we felt provided the best balance between price and features. 

The paid versions of Ontrack EasyRecovery can be downloaded on a trial basis but users can only preview files inside the program. In other words recovered data can't be saved to the hard drive. Still, this does allow you to check whether the utility can recover your data before handing over your money. 

Ontrack EasyRecovery: Features

According to the developer's website, the key features of EasyRecovery are:

Comprehensive data recovery options

You can recover files lost via deletion, reformatting, and other data loss scenarios such as virus attacks and server corruption. With Ontrack EasyRecovery, you can recover data from both internal external drives, including SSDs, conventional hard drives, USB/flash drives, and optical media storage devices.

Ontrack EasyRecovery review

EasyRecovery’s comprehensive feature list makes it a top choice for your data recovery needs.  (Image credit: Ontrack)

Deep scans

The developers claim that you can effectively scan your deleted files to quickly recover them, or opt for a more detailed scan for files that may be more challenging to recover. During our tests (see below) we found that this feature was buggy, as the program stopped working each time we used it, on each of the three drives we tested. 

Easy data management

This application enables you to initiate and execute data integrity and recovery steps at your own pace. You can preplan your system scans, monitor the health of your drives, and rebuild corrupt, damaged, or deleted drives as and when you need to.

Ontrack EasyRecovery: Client and client setup

Apart from the Toolkit plan, which is only available for Windows, all of EasyRecovery’s plans work on Windows and MacOS. In order to get started you only need visit the Ontrack EasyRecovery web page and download your chosen version.

This will download a small installer, which will in turn download additional files. You're then asked to confirm the install location and your chosen language. 

Ontrack EasyRecovery review

Available on Windows and MacOS, EasyRecovery is a great all-in-one tool for home and business use.  (Image credit: Ontrack)

How we tested 

For our data recovery tests we used a virtual machine with a clean install of Windows 11. The only third-party tools installed besides Ontrack Data Recovery Premium were VLC Media Player and GIMP. 

Data files

The files we chose for recovery are an album of Mozart's Music available from the Internet Archive. 

We did this as we wanted to see how the utility performed with a wide variety of files.The album included 4 music files (2 in Mp3 and 2 in FLAC) format, 6 JPG image files of album covers (with thumbnails) and 4 PNG image files. The files also included 2 XML files, a torrent file and an 'SQLite' file containing details of the album. There were 25 files in total. 

We copied the files in the music album to a 512MB virtual NTFS-formatted hard drive, which was then attached to the Windows 11 virtual machine.

Data tests

The tests were performed one after the other on three separate virtual drives:

1. File deletion: the album files were simply deleted from the drive and the Recycle Bin emptied. No other data was copied to the drive. We then tried to recover the files. 

2. Delete & format: The files were deleted as outlined above and we also performed a 'Quick Format' using the 'Disk Management' utility built into Windows 11. We then tried to recover the files from the formatted partition. 

3. Recover corrupted files: We used the freeware program 'Victoria' to overwrite the volume header of the drive containing the files with zeroes. The drive didn't mount automatically in File Explorer and showed as being unpartitioned in Windows "Disk Management" utility. We then checked if the utility could see it and if so, recover the files. 

We do not believe that running data recovery tools in a virtual environment has a significant effect on how they function. Still, if you're considering buying software we encourage you to read all reviews thoroughly and make sure that the developer offers a refund policy.

Ontrack EasyRecovery: Performance

Upon first launch, Ontrack displays a window with a simple layout stating "Choose What to Recover". From here you can select any and all data or specify a certain type such as photos or e-mails. 

You're next taken to the "Recover From" window where you're asked to select a drive, partition or disk image from where data should be recovered. 

There's an option at the very bottom left to run a "Deep Scan". During our tests we tried to run this each time, only for the utility to become unresponsive once the scan reached 99% whilst trying to read a particularly nasty data cluster.

Regular scans on the other hand ran extremely fast. Our first test on the drive where the files had simply been deleted then emptied from the recycle bin Ontrack EasyRecovery recognized all 25 filenames. 

We were especially impressed with the quick summary once the scan was complete detailing exactly how many files had been recovered and how much data they constituted.

There's a built-in "Preview" feature which not only displays photos but can also play audio and video files. In our first test we found that all of the 25 original files had been restored and could be opened without issue. 

Ontrack EasyRecovery review

Choose the files or folders you want to scan, recover to a safe and secure drive, and scan and recover multiple file types.  (Image credit: Ontrack)

Our next test on the drive which had been formatted in addition to the files being deleted recovered 13 system files but none of the media files from our test folder.

Our final test was on a drive with a corrupted volume header. Ontrack EasyRecovery's "Recover From" has a "Can't Find Drive" option, which we clicked and the external hard drive was displayed immediately.

On the first scan, the utility was able to restore the lost partition in order for it to be scanned. (We noticed that it still didn't appear in File Explorer however).

We then tried to run a regular scan. Unfortunately this was the point at which the utility became unresponsive, simply saying 0% scanned. We left it this way for around 15 minutes before being forced to exit via Ctrl + Alt + Del.

Ontrack EasyRecovery: Efficiency

Forced quits aside, when it's running properly Ontrack EasyRecovery is light on the system and works very well with a 1GHz processor and 512MB RAM. 

Once installed, Ontrack EasyRecovery Premium's folder took up less than 320MB. This leaves plenty of additional storage space to save your recovered files and folders or create backups of your data. As always, it's wise to install data recovery tools on a different drive or partition to the one from which you're trying to recover files. This way there's less chance of your data being overwritten. 

Ontrack EasyRecovery review

Small .exe file size, quick installation, and auto-scan options make EasyRecovery an easy tool to use. (Image credit: Ontrack)

Paid versions of Ontrack EasyRecovery such as the Professional and Premium editions also enable you to set up automatic scans, which can use it to passively monitor the health of your hard drives. 

This means you can keep tabs on things without being directly involved in system or risk management. Indeed, regularly scanning to check your hard drive health and making backups using Ontrack EasyRecovery's built-in tools may mean that you don't have to use the data recovery features in future. 

Ontrack EasyRecovery: Support

Upon visiting the Ontrack website, we couldn't see a dedicated "Support" section. However, when we clicked "Contact" we were pleasantly surprised to see that they're happy to answer general questions via e-mail or the supplied contact form. 

Of all the data recovery specialists we've reviewed, Ontrack certainly is the most international with multiple offices across both the United States and Europe.

There's also a US telephone number offering 24/7 technical support. This is different to the 800 freefone number advertised on their marketing material and it's not clear if the cost of this is included in users' annual licenses or whether support is provided to users of the free version.

The sales page does answer some general FAQs about the software but there's nothing specific about how to perform operations like selecting lost partitions. The FAQs also detail the absolutely colossal number of file types supported by the utility. 

Ontrack EasyRecovery review

Support is available via dedicated lines, a comprehensive FAQ, and easy-to-use job tracking tools (Image credit: Ontrack)

Ontrack EasyRecovery: The competition

Arcserve UDP and MiniTool Data Recovery are two popular alternatives to Ontrack EasyRecovery. Both come with comprehensive file recovery options for events such as accidental deletion, virus attack, and disk failure. Arcserve is more geared toward business clients, and it is great at data recovery in environments that use large volumes of data. It is also very effective at minimizing data loss when it comes to cloud applications.

MiniTool is designed more for at-home or small-business use than it is for corporate settings, and the highest tier plan is, in fact, called Personal Ultimate, with a pricing scheme that changes with the duration of your license and not with any additional features or functionality.

Of the three, Arcserve is the best option for enterprise-grade data recovery, while MiniTool can only be used in private or home settings and EasyRecovery provides a great middle-ground for individuals and small or medium-sized businesses.

Ontrack EasyRecovery: Final verdict

Whether you are a home user, a small business, or a large corporation, Ontrack EasyRecovery can be used to retrieve lost data, recreate damaged or infected photos and videos, extract information from physically damaged devices, and perform deep scans of your system to extract data file by file and block by block. 

It’s easy to use, and the Home, Professional, and Premium plans are competitively priced. It provides a good mix of recovery tools and is an all-round winner in the hard drive data recovery and file recovery spaces.

We've listed the best data recovery service.

Serpstat review
7:06 pm | March 13, 2020

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

Serpstat is an all-around SEO tool that can meet various digital marketing requirements. Whether you're in charge of an online store, handling PPC campaigns, or leading marketing efforts, Serpstat's cloud-based platform provides strong features to improve your online presence. You can do extensive Keyword research, site audit, competitor analysis, keyword clustering, and even AI content generation all with Serpstat. In this review, we will take a close look at this popular SEO tool. We will also cover its pricing plans, free and paid products, and monitor their usefulness, all in detail. So, let’s get started.

Serpstat: Plans and pricing

Serpstat pricing

(Image credit: Serpstat)

Individual Plan

Priced at $50/month (or $59 if billed monthly), this plan is ideal for individuals and freelancers. It lets you manage 5 projects and provides access to various tools for analyzing your competitors and doing your keyword research. The plan includes 100 daily searches, 2,000 results per report for website and backlink analysis, and 50,000 export rows per month.

Team Plan

This plan is the most popular choice for small in-house teams and comes for $100/month (or $119 if billed monthly). It includes AI tools, Batch Analysis, Branded reports, Team Management, and more. The Team Plan offers 500 daily searches, 10,000 results per report for website and backlink analysis, and 250,000 export rows per month.

Agency Plan

For $410/month (or $479 if billed monthly), this plan offers the best value for big marketing agencies and large in-house teams with extensive data needs. It includes more projects, credits, team members, and even different white-label features. This plan offers up to 5,000 daily searches, 100,000 results per report for website analysis, 10,000 results for backlink analysis, and 2.5 million export rows per month.

All the plans coming from Serpstat include access to 230 Google search regions and various levels of API access, with the Agency Plan offering the most comprehensive features. Not to mention, the annual subscriptions come with significant discounts and can save you up to $828 per year depending on the plan.

Serpstat: Features

Keyword Research

Serpstat features- keyword research

(Image credit: Serpstat)

Serpstat's Keyword Research tool is really helpful for finding and analyzing keywords that can improve your website's organic traffic. This tool accesses a vast database of over seven billion keywords and 4.54 billion suggestions. Plus, it makes keyword analysis easier as you can quickly evaluate hundreds of keywords in a single click. During this, it provides important metrics like monthly search volume, keyword difficulty, and other relevant data to help you make informed decisions about which keywords to target. You can also gather and analyze your competitors' most successful keywords. This thing, in particular, helps you compete better in your niche market.

Another useful feature of Serpstat is its Keyword Niche Finder which thoroughly explores your niche. It helps you discover related keywords and search terms that are frequently used alongside your primary keywords. This feature is invaluable for understanding your audience's search behavior and tailoring your content accordingly. Furthermore, Serpstat also provides insights for your competition for any topic in both paid and organic search. With the option to try Keyword Research and 50 different marketing tools, it offers a comprehensive platform to improve your website's visibility and traffic.

Keywords Clustering

The Serpstat Keywords Clustering feature groups up to 50,000 keywords based on their similarity in Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs) to enhance your SEO strategy. This automatic grouping optimizes your website's content structure and helps boost its rankings.

For this, add keywords to the clustering project by pasting them directly or importing them in CSV or TXT files. Serpstat efficiently handles these keywords and excludes invalid entries like the ones with only symbols or numbers. Apart from this, you also have customization options, including setting parameters for search engines, countries, and specific regions or cities for local keyword grouping. Once done, choose the connection strength for the thematic grouping of keywords, with medium strength ideal for most projects. Moreover, the “Type of Cluster” setting groups keywords by matching URLs in the top 30 search results. It provides detailed and relevant grouping.

After the clustering process, you receive a list of keyword clusters with details like keyword volume and connection strength. You can manually add, delete, or move keywords to different clusters to align with your SEO goals. Likewise, the export feature lets you integrate keyword clusters into your website's pages or use them for further analysis.

Content Analysis

Serpstat’s Content Analysis is designed to transform content creation and optimization. It is beneficial for various professionals, such as writers, content marketers, editors, SMM managers, PR specialists, and SEO or PPC specialists. Whether you work in a marketing agency or own a business, these tools can significantly improve your content strategy.

The Article Builder is a key feature that helps create articles step by step. You can edit each paragraph's title, structure, and text and make manual changes as required. It generates articles based on your inputs, including necessary keywords, to align with your SEO goals. Similarly, its Text Editor and Paraphrasing tool are essential for refining content to ensure uniqueness and engagement. Likewise, the Keywords Extraction feature identifies important keywords to improve their relevance and searchability.

During our research, we found Serpstat’s AI Detection tool quite quick and helpful. Along with that, you also get YouTube Transcription, Plagiarism Detection, Description Generation, and Title Generation, covering all aspects of content creation and optimization within Serpstat. These features save time and guarantee high-quality, unique content tailored to your audience's needs.

Competitor Analysis

Serpstat features-competitors analysis

(Image credit: Serpstat)

Serpstat's Competitor Analysis tool provides in-depth insights into your competitors' websites and lets you analyze their SEO and PPC strategies. This in-depth view helps you understand your rival's tactics and performance. Moreover, you can research your competition for any topic, ad, or keyword, helping you gain a thorough understanding of the market's competition. You can even find out your competitor’s successful backlinks, further giving you a better strategy for your own site.

By using Serpstat's competitor analysis, you can discover new ideas and strategies to improve your website's rankings. It provides detailed domain comparisons to identify ranking gaps and growth opportunities. Plus, you can also track your competitors' growth dynamics and find solutions for your SEO strategy.

Additionally, the tool offers an analysis of top organic competitors by keyword. This lets you compare metrics such as domain rank, visibility, number of organic keywords, backlinks, and external links on a single page. This feature is particularly useful for identifying areas where your competitors are ranking and where you need to focus your efforts.

Site Audit

Serpstat features- site audit

(Image credit: Serpstat)

The Site Audit feature helps you identify and fix on-site SEO errors to boost your website's rankings on Google and other search engines. Serpstat's Website Audit gives a thorough breakdown of all the problems discovered during the audit and simple steps to resolve them. Plus, we love how the results are showcased in super-intuitive graphs.

Customization is key with this tool as it lets you tailor the audit settings to your specific needs. The audit categorizes issues into a high, medium, or low priority to focus on the most critical problems first. You even get a Domain Optimization Score that estimates your site's overall optimization level. Also, if you want to run this frequently, users can schedule the audit to run weekly, daily, or manually as you want it. With this, Serpstat will automatically crawl your website and notify you when the audit is complete. You can then check the report online and monitor your website’s audit reports.

The Site Audit tool offers a Technical SEO Guide, customizable detailed reports, and team collaboration features. So, whether you're a specialist or part of a larger team, this tool provides many necessary resources for thorough and effective technical SEO audits.

Serpstat: Interface and in use

Serpstat 10

(Image credit: Serpstat )

For the breadth of analytics capabilities that Serpstat offers, the user interface is impressively friendly. To start, the five modules that makeup Serpstat are neatly organized into a menu on the left-hand side of the dashboard. The menu uses drop-downs to give you access to individual features, but there are never multiple layers of menus to search through. Another thing that was nice about Serpstat’s interface was how it helps you organize your work. You can create not only projects but also checklists to keep track of tasks that need to be done. Serpstat offers checklist templates for common applications like keyword quality control and link optimization, and you can also create your own custom templates for future use.

Serpstat: Support

Serpstat 11

(Image credit: Serpstat )

Support

Serpstat offers tons of resources for its users like the Serpstat Academy, Case Studies, User's Guide, and Video Tutorials. If you’re looking for urgent support, you can reach out to Serpstat’s support team via direct chat, where personnel is available between Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM (GMT+2). There is also an advanced onboarding which is available for paid users, where you receive personalized assistance from a dedicated virtual assistant to start your SEO journey with Serpstat. Its premium customers also have the opportunity for one-on-one training sessions via Skype or Hangouts. Moreover, Serpstat’s support team is quite responsive and crisp, which makes sure that their communications are clear and effective.

Serpstat: The competition

Serpstat is an excellent tool for the price. However, it falls a bit short of competitors like SEMRush and Moz Pro when it comes to domain analysis and competitor research. Both of these platforms include data from social media in reporting rather than limiting you to Google search results. In addition, SEMRush has a “Backlink Gap” tool that makes it much easier to find competitive referral opportunities. However, you’ll pay a bit more for plans with either SEMRush or Moz compared to Serpstat.

Serpstat: Final verdict

Serpstat is an impressive SEO tool that is both powerful and easy to use. Its keyword research is extremely detailed and works like a breeze. Plus, it also has an accurate rank tracker that delivers authentic data along with various insights into your competitors. Although it may have some limitations if you’re a beginner who is not experienced with using SEO tools, its wide range of features and affordable price make it a top choice in the SEO tool market.

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