Backups

Debian ecosystem splits this functionality into two categories: - System Rollback (for when an update breaks your OS) and - Data Backup (for personal files).

Feature Timeshift Back In Time Déjà Dup Vorta (Borg)
Primary Use System Rollback Data/Home Backup Data/Home Backup Data & Cloud Backup
Backend rsync / BTRFS rsync duplicity / restic borg
CLI timeshift backintime dplicity / restic borg
Deduplication Hard links only Hard links only Basic Advanced
Encryption No Optional Yes Yes
GUI Style Utility / Wizard Browser Minimalist Dashboard / Modern

Recommended:

  • For system rollback: timeshift.
  • For local back-up to a Local USB Drive: Vorta+Borg. The performance on local disks is unbeatable, and the "Borg Mount" feature is like magic for browsing files.
  • For backing up to The Cloud: Use Restic (via the autorestic or resticprofile wrappers for a better experience). It is natively built for the cloud and won't break when your internet connection drops.