Review

PowerQuest DataKeeper 3.0

By Lowell Conn, Cyberwalker Media Syndicate

Before Windows, there was DOS -- and with the disk operating system's utilities came a standard program called BACKUP. 

The program's options were limited. Run the program with command line options and it backed up entire disks, individual files or subdirectories. The concept was basic and there were no frills to complicate the procedure.

Enter PowerQuest's DataKeeper 3.0,which resurrects the backup program but with plenty more options. Despite more utility, PowerQuest has managed to keep this program simple. It's a small program, convenient, quick and easy to use. On the surface, DataKeeper seems simplistic -- it's there just to back up the files. Dig beneath the surface and you have a genuinely versatile tool at your disposal.

DataKeeper backs up individual files, directories, removable disks and hard drives. It backs up files in their original form or archives compressed versions, both procedures running seamlessly in Windows's background while you work on other projects. With minimal and simple option tinkering, DataKeeper will periodically back up essential files on your computer.

Windows software is supposed to be easy to use. Still, you'll often find utility programs are a pain to install or configure. DataKeeper installs quickly. Run the install program and a window opens, listing step-by-step directions on how to utilize its options. Users can configure and save multiple settings and can modify the program to back up selected files on the hard drive constantly or on a schedule. With slightly more effort, DataKeeper can be configured to back up files every time you turn on your computer.

This program is very good. It is convenient and quick. Essential? Probably. Worth owning? Oh, yes. Easy to use? Most definitely. 

A computer-phobic associate used Data Keeper to back up his system files within minutes and with ease. On a Pentium II, an entire hard drive was backed up while other applications were open and operating smoothly. The filter option, which allows users to peg specialized files on the hard drive for constant back up, works like a charm. Those living in constant fear of lost data due to a system freeze can now rest easy.

If there is an iota of concern, it stems from the compression component, which is solid but unspectacular. Two megabytes of word processing files were compressed down to 790k. Competitive, but not a front-running compression ratio.

At first glance, PowerQuest's DataKeeper looks like a boring, ho-hum utility. In use, this program shines. This is one piece of software you'll use a lot more than you might think.

Rating: 5 out of 5
Reviewer's Comments: PowerQuest's DataKeeper does exactly what it says and does it well. Myriad configuration options make this a keeper. 
Approximate Price: $49 US