UrBackup

UrBackup is backup software for computers, mobile devices, and servers, with clients listed for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. Its core plan is AGPLv3+ open-source software that provides file and image backups through a self-hosted server. The listed backup scope includes both files and images, and restore modes are described as mixed. Ransomware protection is also listed. A free plan is available, while the Change block tracking add-on for the UrBackup Client on Windows costs €15.50 a month, billed per client excluding VAT. That add-on speeds up incremental image and file backups, includes 2.x updates, and works with UrBackup Server 2.x. A separate client for Microsoft Hyper-V 2016 or later backs up virtual machine disks as images and restores images to VHD or VHDX. The maker, UrBackup, is headquartered in Ulm, Germany.

UrBackup offers self-hosted file and image backup software, with client options for several operating systems and Hyper-V. The core is open-source, while the listed Windows change block tracking add-on has a per-client monthly charge.

UrBackup may suit people or organizations seeking self-hosted file and image backups across computers, servers, and Android devices. Windows users needing faster incremental backups can consider the listed change block tracking add-on.

Overview

UrBackup is a self-hosted backup system for people who want to manage backup infrastructure themselves rather than buy a fully hosted service. It suits mixed file-and-image backup needs across computers, servers and mobile devices. Its open-source core is compelling; the clearest trade-off is that operating the server is part of the job.

Key features

• File and image backups: The core handles both, making it a fit for organizations that need file-level protection as well as image backups rather than a single backup format.
• Self-hosted server: UrBackup core runs on a server you host and operate. That offers control over the backup environment, but it is less suitable for readers seeking a service that removes server management.
• Broad backup scope: Computer, mobile and server backup are supported, with mixed backup scope and restore modes. Ransomware protection is also included.
• Windows change block tracking: A paid add-on speeds incremental file and image backups for Windows clients. It includes 2.x updates and works with UrBackup Server 2.x, so it is most relevant to deployments where faster incremental runs justify a per-client charge.
• Hyper-V backups: A separate client supports Microsoft Hyper-V 2016 or later, backs up VM disks as images and restores images to VHD/VHDX. This is a targeted option for Hyper-V environments, not a general-purpose substitute for the core.

Pricing

UrBackup uses a freemium model. The core software is free, open source under AGPLv3+, and includes file and image backups on a self-hosted server. It is the natural starting point for users able to supply and maintain that infrastructure.

Change block tracking for UrBackup Client on Windows costs €15.50 a month, billed 15.50€ excl. VAT per Client. It speeds incremental image and file backups and includes 2.x updates. The per-client billing means costs scale with the number of Windows clients using the add-on; the charge is for this acceleration option, not the free core.

UrBackup Client for Microsoft Hyper-V 2.x has custom pricing. It supports Hyper-V 2016 or later, including image backups of VM disks and image restores to VHD/VHDX. Choose it for those specific virtual machine workflows; the core alone does not describe this Hyper-V client.

Platforms

UrBackup supports Windows, macOS, Linux and Android. Its listed coverage includes computer, mobile and server backup, making it broader than a desktop-only tool, though its self-hosted server model remains central.

Who it's for

UrBackup is best suited to technically capable individuals or organizations that want an open-source, self-hosted system spanning file and image backup. Windows environments that need faster incremental backups can add change block tracking, while Hyper-V operators can choose the dedicated client. Readers who do not want to run a backup server, or who need a fully managed experience, should look elsewhere.

Pros and cons

• Pro: The free AGPLv3+ core covers both file and image backups, avoiding a license charge for the core software.
• Pro: Windows change block tracking addresses incremental backup speed and includes 2.x updates for UrBackup Server 2.x.
• Pro: Dedicated Hyper-V support covers VM disk images and restores to VHD/VHDX.
• Con: The core is self-hosted, so users must take responsibility for the server rather than relying on a hosted service.
• Con: Windows change block tracking is charged per client each month, which can add up across a larger client fleet.
• Con: Hyper-V client pricing is custom, making the cost harder to compare upfront.

Alternatives

Choose Veeam Agent for Mac if your need is specifically Mac workstation backup: its free edition has no license requirement, but is limited to one backup job and does not back up directly to object storage.

Amanda is a free, open-source alternative for Linux, macOS, self-hosted and Windows environments, provided as-is.

For personal workstation file and image backups on Linux, macOS or Windows, MSP360 Backup offers a free plan with forum-based support.

Consider Storware Backup & Recovery for its free license or 60-day trial option; technical support is not included with the free license.

AvePoint Cloud Backup is another paid backup option with custom pricing.

Acronis Cyber Disaster Recovery Cloud is a paid alternative with a free trial.

Bacula Enterprise is a paid alternative with a free trial and annual subscription pricing based on secured endpoint count and support response time.

Amazon CloudWatch RUM uses usage-based pricing and is billed hourly per actively replicating source server.

For broader category browsing, see Backup and Disaster Recovery Software, Continuous Data Protection Software, Backup software, Endpoint Backup Software and NAS Backup Software.

Verdict

UrBackup is a strong choice for users who want free, open-source file and image backup and are willing to run their own server. Its breadth, plus focused Windows and Hyper-V options, gives it meaningful flexibility; the main reason to choose another product is avoiding self-hosted operations or per-client add-on costs.