Allmydata usage via web interface

Visiting Allmydata.com and entering your user credentials (big plus for the very fast 30 day trial sign-up process), you will enter the main working area of the application.



As you can see the user interface is very intuitive, so you can start uploading your stuff immediately. The default settings gives you the opportunity to upload up to 5 files, but you can add new "upload slots" with a click of a button.



Allmydata shows a dynamic uploading status which both provides the live info and ensures that the files are indeed uploaded without any problems.



Files uploaded are shown in the main screen of the application. As Allmydata doesn't support a bit advanced Web 2.0 features such as drag and drop, next to every file you will find a checkbox which can label it for further action.



Opening or saving a file:



Allmydata also provides functionality for sharing uploaded files. Every file can get its own unique https URL address.



That was the Allmydata usage through the web interface. Besides this way of uploading, Allmydata storage procedure can be done from your Windows computer via a custom application.

Allmydata usage via a Windows application

For the full backup experience, you should download the Allmydata native client which provides some good features including:

• Backup thousands of files simply with a drag and drop
• Automatic backup scheduling
• Restore multiple files and directories at once
• Backup your Outlook emails even while checking them

I tried installing it on my brand new Vista powered notebook, but it didn't work. The system tray icon showed a clear red X over it and the software tried to initialize without any luck. I just managed to record this screenshot:



Trying the options provided from the menu started the browser and pointed it to a local server listening to port 8666. The software application was updated a couple of weeks ago, but I found the following piece of information in the Allmydata FAQ: "Allmydata works on Windows XP and Windows 2000 operating systems". I hope the guys behind the project will update the application soon.


Overall, Allmydata as a web service is a pretty straightforward and useful application. While I would prefer drag and drop features in the web interface, while dealing with files it isn't a problem of using good old check the box and click action routine.