Best Free WD SmartWare Alternative - AOMEI Backupper

How to Use WD SmartWare to Backup Data in Windows 10/8/7

1. Open WD SmartWare after installing, and choose the Backup Source and Backup Target, click Next.

Note: The Dropbox Icon and feature have been removed in WD Smartware 2.4.20.48 and higher.

2. Choose a backup plan, Category Backup, or File Backup( here we choose first), and click Next.

3. Then we select Scheduled Backup, Daily, and click OK.

4. Press Enable Backup to create backups with WD SmartWare.

WD SmartWare Limitations

Although WD SmartWare can do so many things for WD devices, it still has many restrictions that you want to find an alternative to replace it.

• WD SmartWare only does a file-by-file copy, and it doesn’t take a complete image of your drive. Although it can back up your files constantly as soon as the data is changed, it cannot back up your Windows operating system and the applications.

• Sometimes, the WD SmartWare continuous backup not working while backing up files.

• Some WD drives are not supported by WD SmartWare, such as My Passport WDBYFT, My Book WDBBGB, WD Elements SE, etc.

💡 Is WD SmartWare still supported?
WD Smartware has reached the end of the support life cycle. You may continue to use your product and related applications. Software purchases, licenses, updates, and technical support are no longer provided for WD Smartware.

Is there a utility that can replace WD SmartWare to backup files and folders, and the operating system?

WD SmartWare Free Alternative - AOMEI Backupper

Considering the drawback of WD SmartWare, you may want to find a WD SmartWare alternative. Fortunately, AOMEI Backupper Standard as the best free WD SmartWare alternative comes to help. It’s designed for all Windows PCs, like Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, XP, and Vista, including all 32-bit and 64-bit versions.

📌It provides system, disk, partition, and file backups to cover various needs.
📌You can set up scheduled backups to automatically save your files regularly.
📌It works with all WD drives, as well as drives from Samsung, Crucial, Seagate, and more.

Please download the best free alternative to WD SmartWare - AOMEI Backupper Standard to have a try.

How to Create a Scheduled Backup with AOMEI Backupper

Step 1. Execute the WD SmartWare free alternative - AOMEI Backupper, and choose Backup > File Backup successively.

Step 2. Click the Add File or Add Folder button to choose the files and folders that you would like to backup. Change the Task Name to distinguish it from others if required.

Step 3. Choose a destination for the backups.

Step 4. Hit Schedule Backup > Choose Daily, Weekly, or Monthly. Tap OK then.

Step 5. Press Start Backup button to create a scheduled backup task easily.

👉 Before clicking Start Backup, there are other settings you could customize (Optional):

• Options: it allows you to split, compress, comment on the backup images, enable email or SMS notification to get an email or SMS after the backup is finished, encrypt the backup (paid), etc.

• Backup Scheme: it allows you to automatically delete old backup images when the backups exceed the number you specified before. You can also choose to run full backup, incremental, and differential backup as you want.

👉 How to create a continuous backup with AOMEI Backupper

To monitor the source folder and sync changes to the destination path without delay, you may upgrade to AOMEI Backupper Professional to enable Real-Time Sync.

Bonus: What Is WD SmartWare?

WD SmartWare is a software designed for backing up West Digital(WD) devices. It is compatible with Windows Vista/7/8/10. The WD SmartWare software is easy to use, and you can use it to do the following things:

• It can back up your data automatically. You can set a scheduled backup to run on the frequency you selected.

• It shows your backup progress. WD SmartWare offers two backup modes—Category and File mode—both of which display the status of your backup.

• It easily recovers your lost data. If files are accidentally deleted, WD SmartWare can help restore them.

• It manages power settings for compatible WD devices. You can personalize your backups and have full control over your WD hardware.

More Reasons to Seek a WD SmartWare Alternative

However, as technology evolves, users may find it lacking in terms of functionality, flexibility, or user experience. Many are now seeking free alternatives that not only provide superior features but also come with a more intuitive interface.

Common Issues with WD SmartWare:

• Sluggish Performance: Users often experience slow backup speeds, especially when handling large files.
• Lack of Customization: The software doesn’t offer extensive options for setting up tailored backups or system clones.
• Compatibility Issues: WD SmartWare may not work efficiently on newer versions of Windows or macOS.

FAQs About WD SmartWare Alternatives

Q1: Is it safe to use free backup software?

A1: Yes, most reputable free backup tools, like AOMEI Backupper, are safe to use. However, always ensure you download from the official website to avoid potential malware or security risks.

Q2: How does disk cloning differ from backup?

A2: Disk cloning creates an exact replica of your hard drive, including system files, while a backup stores copies of your files and data. Cloning is ideal for migrating to a new drive, while backups are better for regular file protection.

Q3: Can I schedule backups with these free tools?

A3: Yes, all three alternatives offer the ability to schedule automatic backups, ensuring your data is regularly updated without manual intervention.

Tips for Choosing the Right WD SmartWare Alternative

1. Consider Your Backup Needs: Identify whether you need simple file backups or more advanced features like disk imaging and cloning. Choose software that meets your requirements.

2. Check Compatibility: Make sure the backup tool you choose supports your system's hardware and operating system, including external drives and cloud services.

3. Schedule Automatic Backups: To avoid the risk of data loss, select software that allows you to schedule automatic backups. This ensures your data is consistently protected without manual input.

The End

If WD SmartWare isn't functioning for backups, you can switch to AOMEI Backupper as a reliable, free alternative. It allows you to schedule automatic backups, ensuring your files are consistently protected. AOMEI Backupper provides more advanced features than WD SmartWare and is available for free to all Windows PC users.

For businesses or individuals needing to safeguard multiple PCs and servers, AOMEI Backupper Technician Plus offers an excellent solution with enhanced capabilities.