restic

You create encrypted backups with snapshots and deduplication from the command line.

Developer restic

Version 0.19.1 · Open source · Windows · macOS · Linux

Looking for an alternative to restic?Compare Duplicati, Kopia, Duplicacy, Arq Backup.Compare alternatives

Restic stores backups in a repository and makes snapshots of your files. Deduplication prevents identical data from being completely re-saved. You can use different local and external storage destinations.

The program does not have an ordinary graphical main interface. You set commands, passwords and schedule yourself. Successful backup is only useful if you also know how to restore files. Therefore, save repository access and recovery data outside the computer you secure.

Which software suits you?

Compare restic with alternatives

If you choose a storage target, compare supported protocols, encryption, deduplication and retention periods. A graphic app makes settings easier; a command line tool gives more space for scripts. Save the backup key separately and check how to recover files without your original computer.

Differences between restic and Duplicati, Kopia, Duplicacy, Arq Backup
SoftwareWhat can it do?Platform and licence
resticYou are viewing this app You create encrypted, deduplicated snapshots via the command line. You arrange planning and any graphic control yourself. Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source
DuplicatiView this alternative You plan encrypted, incremental file backups via a web interface to different storage targets. The backup database and recovery procedure deserve attention in larger collections. Windows, macOS, LinuxMIT
KopiaView this alternative You create encrypted snapshots with deduplication via a graphical app or command line. You choose a supported storage location and storage policy. Windows, macOS, LinuxApache-2.0
DuplicacyView this alternative You create incremental backups with deduplication to supported storage targets. The license and operation differ between the command line and web edition. Windows, macOS, LinuxFree for personal use
Arq BackupView this alternative You create encrypted computer backups to a supported cloud or own storage location. The software license and storage costs are assessed separately. Windows, macOSPaid

Choose an alternative to explore its features, system requirements and download options.

Who is it for?

You want a scriptable backup and can work with commands and planning.

Getting started

Download the official program for your system, create a testropository and practice backup, control and recovery with non-critical files.

Privacy

Restic encrypts repository data. A storage provider still sees connection and storage information; also protect your access data.

Good to know

You can arrange storage space and any cloud costs yourself. A scheduler and notifications are additional parts.

Please note

If you lose the repository password, backups can become unreadable. Test recovery and check cleanup rules before removing snapshots.

Advantages

  • Encrypted snapshots Deduplication Many storage destinations

Things to consider

  • Command line knowledge required Set up planning and notifications yourself Save recovery keys yourself

Download restic

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Version history

0.19.1

You get solutions for fixed mounts and edge cases in file selection.

restic 0.19.1 prevents a blockage when you try to mount a repository over an overlapping path. Unreachable source paths and double entries in exclusion rules are handled better. On Windows deletion of read-only files via SFTP has been corrected.
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Our verdict

restic is a good choice if you want a backup that you can record in scripts and send to different storage locations. Snapshots make it possible to retrieve previous states, while deduplication limits repeated content. That's a different approach than just copying a folder.

The technical equipment is part of the choice. Set up planning, error messages and recovery before trusting it. Start with a small repository and put a file back from it in another location. For those looking for a fully guided desktop wizard, restic is less appropriate. For manageable, repeatable backups it offers a lot of control.

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