How to Integrate Your NAS Backups with Any Cloud Storage[2023]

Amy Dennis

Feb 13, 2023 • Filed to: Take Data Backup • Proven solutions

Using cloud-based storage to keep your NAS backups safe and secure is by far the best way to prevent accidental data loss. After all, nothing matches the convenience of using a NAS cloud backup storage, letting you automate this process and make it as smooth as possible.

With that said, we're sure you'll want to know which cloud backup service works best for your NAS. And most importantly, you'll want a solution within your budget that doesn't skimp on the essentials. That's precisely what we'll show you in this article, guiding you through creating an effortless NAS cloud backup system that will never let you down.

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Part 1 – What Are the Best Cloud Backup Services Right Now?
Part 2 – Do Cloud Backups Have Any Limitations?
Part 3 – Your One-Stop Solution to NAS Cloud Backup
Part 4 – How to Backup NAS to Cloud with Backup Software?
Part 5 – FAQ

Part 1 – What Are the Best Cloud Backup Services Right Now?

As you surely know, storing your backups on a NAS drive is an excellent way to secure that data. However, going one step further will take you into the territory of NAS cloud backup providers. These create cloud-based copies of your files, adding a layer of protection if something unexpected happens.

With that said, we will first give you a glimpse of some of the best cloud backup solutions for NAS devices. So, let's jump right in.

1. Google Drive

Let's start with the world's most popular cloud storage provider. Being used by millions worldwide, this option comes out on top due to its cost and ease of use. However, you should know that only specific NAS brands support this option out-of-the-box, such as Synology, for example.

At its core, Google Drive is a highly capable and flexible cloud storage solution, giving you the ability to store any file type. Furthermore, it's a part of Google One subscriptions, bringing a whole slate of productivity tools as well. Trust us – there's plenty of value here.

google drive homepage

Google Drive gives you 15GB of storage for free. Premium-priced plans start at only $1.99 per month, and these get you 100GB of storage. There's also a 200GB plan ($2.99/month) and a massive 2TB storage plan ($9.99/month).

As you can see, Google Drive promises a lot – at a low cost. And even though it works flawlessly as a Synology NAS backup solution, those looking to create QNAP cloud backups will often need to rely on third-party software (more on that below).

Related Article:

Learn more details on how to backup files to Google Drive.

2. OneDrive

Here, we have a well-known service that'll give you the cheapest cloud backup for NAS. OneDrive comes from Microsoft, and it's similar to Google Drive in many ways. However, this cloud storage provider is known for its flexibility and its support for NAS boxes with cloud backup functionality.

one drive homepage

Keep in mind that OneDrive is primarily a cloud storage solution with the ability to synchronize your files. It's not exactly built for NAS devices from the ground-up. Still, considering its low price, those willing to spend some time perfecting their NAS cloud backup system will be in for a big (positive) surprise.

With OneDrive, you get 5GB for free. You can add 100GB of storage for $1.99/month. Then, a higher tier (called 'Microsoft 365 Personal') is an incredibly comprehensive bundle of services. You get 1TB of storage as well as Microsoft's Office applications – all for $69.99/year. As you can see, the value of this offer goes through the roof.

Related Article:

Further read and know more complete details on how to backup files to OneDrive automatically.

3. Dropbox

It's true that Dropbox has had a strenuous relationship with NAS systems in the past. That's because this cloud storage solution is primary designed for traditional desktop and mobile operating systems, excluding NAS devices from its lineup.

dropbox homepage

Considering the popularity of Dropbox, that situation was bound to change sooner rather than later. That's why this is today one of the most popular solutions for Synology and QNAP cloud backup systems. Those willing to experiment can also count on FreeNAS and TrueNAS to work with Dropbox (with a bit of creativity). Therefore, Dropbox has positioned itself as an excellent solution for any NAS box with cloud backup.

Even though Dropbox isn't the cheapest option, it's one of the best-performing ones. As you can expect, that comes at a price. More precisely, a 2TB plan is priced at $11.99, while a 3TB plan comes priced at $19.99 (when billed monthly). Dropbox also offers business-oriented solutions, with as much space as needed (unlimited, that is).

Part 2 – Do Cloud Backups Have Any Limitations?

Cloud backups come with many promises and benefits. The truth is that they present an accessible and easy way to create and store backups. However, let's not forget that cloud services also come with limitations, many of which hinder their functionality.

File Size & Bandwidth Limitations
In general, cloud backup providers impose size and bandwidth limitations to maintain a certain performance level. Even if you have an incredibly fast Web connection, you'll face performance bottlenecks. Besides, cloud storage providers often impose a limit on the size of a single file. So, if you've been thinking of creating a massive ZIP file (ideal for backups), you need to be very careful about which provider you pick.
Restricted Access to Specific Folders
This limitation is often found in commercial cloud storage providers that aren't fully optimized for NAS devices. As a way to preserve the security and privacy of their subscribers, cloud storage providers often restrict access to specific folders. This is even more prominent if you're working with other individuals, making it close to impossible to distribute and share your NAS backups across multiple systems.
Full Data Recovery Takes a Lot of Time
As you already know, having a capable Internet connection is crucial when using any cloud storage. However, these don't come without problems. You might face connectivity issues preventing your files from syncing correctly. If you're not supervising this process manually (which can be a very tedious process), these errors might go unnoticed.

NAS cloud backup services are incredibly useful – when they work as advertised. However, if things go wrong (and they will, rather sooner than later), you'll encounter serious problems.

Ultimately, all of the previously listed disadvantages could lead to the possibility of losing your data – and we're sure that's the last thing you'd want to experience.

Part 3 – Your One-Stop Solution to NAS Cloud Backup

Based on what we've shared with you above, you can see that integrating cloud backup solutions with NAS systems comes with serious disadvantages. Therefore, you'll want a tool to strengthen this integration, giving you plenty of additional options. With that said, we'd like to introduce you to AOMEI's Backupper – the simplest (and the most effective) solution to creating a cloud backup for NAS devices.

Backupper is an incredibly handy and intelligent backup software designed to help you create custom, flexible, and highly reliable NAS cloud storage backups. Furthermore, you'll get to integrate it with any NAS system and any cloud storage solution. Therefore, it cuts your monthly costs in a big way.

aomei backupper homepage

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Here are some of the most prominent features that you can expect from Backupper:

Unmatched Flexibility
Backupper works with any NAS system, as it doesn't depend on a specific type or brand. And on the other end, it works with just about any cloud storage solution – including Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox. It gives you an unmatched level of flexibility as it's compatible with the hardware and software you already own.
Completely Automated & Incredibly Reliable
As noted above, cloud backups can be very limited in terms of file sizes and bandwidth limitations. Backupper eliminates those worries as it gives you the ability to fine-tune everything. You can create automated and scheduled backups, as well as incremental and differential backups. Also, it syncs files and folders between NAS systems and any cloud storage, which can happen in real-time or on-demand. That's how you can take full advantage of your Internet connection.
Whole Slate of Advanced Features
Despite what its name says, Backupper isn't only about NAS cloud storage backups. This is a one-stop solution for your every need, as this application's functionality goes well beyond backups. For example, it's also used to restore files (with an equal level of flexibility). Backupper keeps your files in sync, clones your data, and gives you additional tools to create small-sized and intelligent backups.

Part 4 – How to Backup NAS to Cloud with Backup Software?

As you can already imagine, we'll use Backupper to show you how to create a NAS cloud backup system. We want to be as helpful as possible, so let's start from the very beginning. Here's what you need to prepare before you begin creating NAS-to-cloud backups.

First, make sure to download Backupper and install the software. It comes as a free download, and it works on Windows 10/8.1/8/7/XP.
Then, you need to download the official app of your cloud storage provider (if you haven't done that already). Log-in to your account on your cloud provider's website and download its native application (for Windows) from there.
Lastly, make sure you have access to your NAS drive (from your Windows computer). This is done based on your NAS drive manufacturer's specification.

Once you've set everything up, it's time to start using Backupper. With that said, let's talk about how to integrate your NAS backup with any cloud storage.

Launch AOMEI's Backupper. Make sure to select 'Backup' using the left-placed sidebar.
Then, select 'File Backup' (using Backupper's main interface).

You'll now need to add either a file or folder to Backupper. In other words, you'll want to add your NAS drive here, so you can select 'Add Folder' or'Add File.'

creating file backup

A prompt will ask you to add your NAS drive. Select your NAS drive using the left-placed sidebar and click on'Open' to dismiss the prompt.
A 'Network Location Management' window will now appear. Click on'Add Network Location' and enter your NAS drive's name or IP address. If the drive is encrypted, don't forget to input your username and password as well.

adding network path

Backupper will now show you the contents of your NAS drive. So ahead and select the folder/file you'd like to backup to cloud storage. Click 'OK' once done.

selecting nas storage

The application will now ask you to set specific filter settings. This feature allows you to create automated backups based on specific file extensions, saving you both time and disk space.

filter setting

You'll now return to Backupper's main interface. Click on the triangle icon (on the right side, next to the folder-shaped icon). Then, click on 'Select a Cloud Drive.'

select cloud drive

A 'Select Cloud' window will now appear. You need to select your cloud service provider. If you don't see it, make sure you've installed its app on your computer properly. Click'OK' to dismiss this window.

adding cloud storage

Finally, remember that you can set-up more advanced options by clicking on 'Options', 'Schedule', or 'Scheme' in the bottom portion of Backupper's interface.

selecting cloud drive

Once everything is set, click on the 'Start Backup' button. That's it!

Part 5 – FAQ

While we have your attention, we'd like to answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding NAS cloud backup systems. So, take a look below.

How Do I Backup My NAS to the Cloud?
The most cost-effective way to backup files from your NAS to a cloud storage provider is by using Backupper. This application allows you to use just about any cloud storage, which reduces your monthly costs. On top of that, Backupper is incredibly powerful, flexible, and easy to use.
Can I Backup Synology and QNAP NAS to the Cloud?
Yes, there are ways to backup your Synology or QNAP NAS to the cloud. However, this works only with certain cloud storage providers. The only way to overcome this limitation is to use third-party software, such as Backupper.
Can I Backup My NAS to the Cloud for Free?
Yes, there's a way to create NAS cloud backups for free. This is done using a free plan offered by services such as OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox. To make this connection, you'll need Backupper – which also comes as a free download.
How Much Does Cloud Backup Cost?
Depending on your needs, a cloud backup solution can cost as little as a couple of dollars per month. If you need more than 1TB of storage, be prepared to pay around $10.00 per month, at least.

This brings us to the end of our guide on creating and optimizing cloud-based backups for NAS devices. Our goal was to show you that creating a NAS cloud backup system doesn't have to cost a lot, and it doesn't have to be complicated. By employing an ingenious third-party application such as Backupper, you create an endless range of possibilities.

Lastly, keep in mind that AOMEI's Backupper isn't only about creating NAS cloud backup systems. You can use it intelligently to restore data, clone your drives (and partitions), and organize your backup data. So, to get started, go ahead and download Backupper from its official website (yes, for free!).

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