Technical Review by
Laura Iannini
Data Protection as a Service (DPaaS) platforms deliver encryption, backup, and compliance capabilities for cloud-hosted data through a managed service model — ensuring data protection obligations are met without building and managing the infrastructure. Data protection responsibilities remain with the data owner regardless of where it is stored. We reviewed the top platforms and found Datto SIRIS, Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud, and Cohesity DataProtect to be the strongest on encryption key management and cloud data store coverage.
Data protection has shifted from infrastructure you own to services you subscribe to. Your team no longer wants to manage backup appliances, maintain capacity planning spreadsheets, or coordinate between on-premises and cloud recovery systems. The best backup services handle this complexity for you while keeping costs predictable and recovery reliable.
The challenge is finding a platform that fits your actual infrastructure without overbuilding for simple needs or undershooting your complexity. Some services excel at protecting endpoints and cloud applications but struggle with databases and legacy systems. Others demand infrastructure expertise upfront. The right platform automates protection policies, recovers fast when systems fail, and doesn’t require constant vendor management.
We evaluated several data protection platforms across hybrid infrastructure, cloud workloads, SaaS applications, and database protection, assessing backup reliability, recovery speed, policy automation, ransomware resilience, and the operational experience teams report after deployment. We found the gap between vendor promises about speed and simplicity versus real-world setup requirements varies significantly. Some platforms deliver straightforward configuration; others demand deep backup expertise.
This guide walks you through the insights and helps you match the right backup service to your workload mix, team expertise, and recovery requirements.
We saw that backup failures happen not during normal operations, but during attacks and outages when admins are stressed and time-pressured. The best DPaaS platforms reduce admin burden before a crisis hits, letting you focus on recovery, not configuration.
Datto SIRIS is a backup and disaster recovery platform built for MSPs and enterprise IT teams managing mixed infrastructure. It handles physical servers, virtual machines, and cloud workloads from one console, with immutable backups and fast recovery options. We think this is one of the strongest options for MSPs who need proven disaster recovery with centralized multi-tenant control.
Datto SIRIS offers 1-Click Disaster Recovery that spins up entire environments locally or in the cloud without piecing together manual restore steps. Snapshot-based backups restore known-good states, and AI-powered screenshot verification with over 99% accuracy validates every backup for boot capability and ransomware presence. Inverse Chain Technology means every incremental snapshot functions as a complete recovery point. Cloud Deletion Defense ensures recovery remains possible even if backups are deleted accidentally or maliciously. Since 2025, all BCDR appliance hardware is available at no cost across any term length.
Users consistently praise backup reliability and recovery speed, especially during real outages. The interface gets high marks for being straightforward once past initial setup. Something to be aware of is that detailed reporting can take some time to learn. New admins also report a learning curve around advanced settings and multi-device management.
We think Datto SIRIS fits MSPs juggling multiple clients and enterprise teams protecting diverse systems that need fast, proven disaster recovery. The 1-Click Disaster Recovery and AI-powered backup verification are standout features. If you’re protecting a simple single-server environment, this is more than you need.
Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud bundles backup, disaster recovery, antimalware, and patch management into one platform for MSPs. Instead of stitching together separate tools, you get a single agent and unified console managing everything from ransomware defense to endpoint patching. We think this delivers real efficiency gains for MSPs managing multiple client environments.
Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud covers backup and recovery with full image and granular file restores across physical, virtual, and cloud environments. Disaster recovery spins up workloads with runbooks and test failovers built in. Immutable storage protects backups from tampering, which is critical during ransomware incidents. Automated patch management keeps endpoints current without manual tracking. The platform lets you store data in the cloud or on-premises, giving you control over where backup copies land.
Customers consistently mention the unified dashboard saves time once they’re comfortable with it. Something to be aware of is that the interface feels cluttered and takes effort to navigate, particularly for new admins. Pricing complexity is a recurring frustration, with unpredictable costs from multiple paid add-on packs making budgets harder to forecast. System performance can slow on older hardware during backup jobs.
We think Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud fits MSPs who want to consolidate backup, security, and endpoint management under one platform. The single-agent approach reduces tool sprawl and vendor coordination. Smaller teams may find the feature set overwhelming and the pricing structure confusing.
Cohesity DataProtect is a backup-as-a-service platform covering SaaS applications, cloud workloads, and on-premises infrastructure from a single interface. It runs as a fully managed service in AWS or Azure, removing the need to provision and maintain your own backup infrastructure. Following Cohesity’s merger with Veritas’ enterprise data protection business in December 2024, the combined entity is now the world’s largest data protection software provider.
Cohesity DataProtect handles virtual machines, databases, files, containers, and SaaS workloads with policy-based automation. Creating new backup jobs takes minutes instead of the hour-plus common with legacy systems. Immutable snapshots stored in isolated cloud environments protect against tampering during ransomware attacks. Recent updates added Microsoft 365 protection covering Exchange, SharePoint, OneDrive, and Teams, plus Amazon EC2 and RDS backup without a separate license. Azure VM protection with ingest-based backup is also now available. Zero-trust architecture and AI-driven threat analytics strengthen the security posture beyond traditional backup.
Users praise the intuitive interface and how quickly backup operations complete once configured. Support teams get consistent positive feedback for responsiveness. Something to be aware of is that licensing complexity makes pricing difficult to understand and plan for. Cost savings typically materialize at enterprise scale; smaller deployments may not see the same value.
We think Cohesity DataProtect fits enterprises managing hybrid environments who want to get out of the infrastructure management business. The unified interface and fast job creation are real time-savers, and the expanding BaaS coverage now includes M365, EC2, and RDS. If your deployment is smaller, the cost savings may not justify the investment.
Commvault Cloud is a cyber resilience platform built for hybrid enterprise environments managing complex data protection across multiple locations. It combines backup, recovery, and threat detection with embedded AI to handle ransomware defense and compliance requirements at scale. We think this is a strong option for enterprises with serious compliance requirements and the resources to invest in proper architecture.
Commvault Cloud uses Metallic AI for pattern recognition across stored data to spot anomalies and threats before they spread. The platform detects sensitive data and automates removal of redundant files that create compliance risks. Real-time monitoring flags ransomware activity as it emerges. Zero-trust architecture with air-gapped copies and immutable storage protects backup integrity. Automated forensics validate recovery points so you’re restoring clean data, not reinfecting systems. Recent updates include Microsoft Intune backup support and compliance lock for SaaS workloads.
Users with years of Commvault deployment praise reliability and vendor support. Organizations protecting regulated data in healthcare and finance trust it for compliance with strict standards. Something to be aware of is that the learning curve is steep. New users say the interface feels challenging initially, and cloud configuration complexity requires significant architecture planning and troubleshooting effort.
We think Commvault Cloud fits enterprises running hybrid infrastructure with serious compliance requirements who need AI-powered threat detection alongside backup. The Metallic AI capabilities and automated forensics are real differentiators. Smaller teams will likely struggle with setup and ongoing management.
Druva Data Resiliency Cloud is a SaaS-based backup platform protecting endpoints, servers, VMs, and cloud applications without on-premises infrastructure. Built on AWS, it handles data protection through a single web interface, eliminating hardware management and scaling automatically. We think this is a strong option for organizations that want to get out of the infrastructure business entirely.
Druva Data Resiliency Cloud runs entirely as SaaS with no hardware to manage, no patches to schedule, and no capacity planning. The single dashboard manages protection across different workload types from one interface. Policy-based management handles backup automation, deduplication, and point-in-time recovery without constant admin attention. The cyber resiliency dashboard surfaces anomalies and validates restore integrity in real time. Recent enhancements include Cyber Recovery with malware and IOC scanning, Data Anomaly Detection using machine learning to flag suspicious patterns, and cross-cloud storage flexibility supporting both AWS and Azure.
Customers praise the intuitive interface and responsive support team that educates while troubleshooting. Users managing global deployments value the visibility across hybrid workloads and SaaS applications. Something to be aware of is that initial backups for large datasets run slow due to cloud upload speeds. Some customers want more granular role-based controls and customizable reporting.
We think Druva Data Resiliency Cloud fits organizations prioritizing simplicity and global accessibility over on-premises control. The SaaS model removes real operational overhead, and the recent Cyber Recovery and Data Anomaly Detection features add meaningful ransomware protection. Teams needing local backup speeds for massive datasets will hit performance limits.
N-able Cove Data Protection is a direct-to-cloud backup service built for MSPs managing multiple client environments. It protects servers, workstations, and Microsoft 365 data without requiring on-premises appliances or separate disaster recovery hardware. We think this is a solid option for MSPs who want reliable cloud backup with included storage and predictable pricing.
N-able Cove Data Protection manages all clients from one multitenant dashboard with minimal CPU impact on protected systems. Cloud storage and archiving come included without extra charges, which simplifies pricing conversations. Full image recovery, virtualization, and file-level restore give flexibility when systems fail. Automated recovery testing validates backups continuously. Recent 2026 updates include Group-Based Data Protection using Microsoft Entra ID security groups, FastTrack Onboarding for SharePoint and Teams alongside Exchange and OneDrive, and 30% faster Exchange backup sessions. Data centers span 17 countries across five continents for local backup storage.
Long-term users report positive experiences across multiple years of deployment. Cost-effectiveness and solid support options resonate particularly for Microsoft 365 backup needs. MSPs managing banking and financial clients value the simplicity alongside strong support. Something to be aware of is that some customers want more advanced customization options and deeper integration capabilities. Recovery speed depends on network performance with the cloud-first architecture.
We think N-able Cove Data Protection fits MSPs protecting client servers and Microsoft 365 environments who want included storage and straightforward management. The recent FastTrack Onboarding and Group-Based Data Protection features improve the M365 experience. Organizations needing extensive customization or on-premises control will find limitations.
Rubrik Cloud Data Management is a software-defined platform handling backup, recovery, and data governance across data centers and cloud environments. Now marketed as Rubrik Security Cloud, it uses automated SLA policies to protect workloads without manual backup scheduling, running on-premises, as software, or fully in the cloud. We think this is a strong option for enterprises wanting automated policy management with built-in ransomware protection.
Rubrik Cloud Data Management eliminates traditional backup scheduling through automated SLA domains. The policy-driven approach handles protection across different workload types without constant admin intervention. Recovery speed stands out consistently, with fast restore times helping admins undo changes or recover from failures quickly. Global search across environments lets you locate specific data and start recovery immediately. The platform uses zero-trust design with immutable architecture and machine learning-powered threat analytics. Cloud archival with predictive search gives instant access to archived data without retrieval delays.
Users praise reliability, ease of use, and strong support when issues arise. Setup processes are called straightforward and smooth. Something to be aware of is that Office 365 granular recovery falls short compared to some alternatives. Pricing comes up frequently as high for smaller environments, with enterprise licensing creating budget pressure.
We think Rubrik Cloud Data Management fits mid-to-large enterprises needing flexible deployment options and fast recovery with automated policy management. The zero-trust architecture and ML-powered threat analytics are strong differentiators. Smaller organizations will struggle with pricing, and the M365 granular recovery limitations are worth evaluating against your needs.
Veritas Alta Data Protection is a cloud-native platform managing backup and recovery across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. It handles physical servers, virtual machines, databases, SaaS applications, and cloud workloads through a centralized management console. Since December 2024, Veritas’ enterprise data protection business operates under Cohesity, with Veritas Alta products continuing to receive investment and development.
Veritas Alta Data Protection protects diverse workloads including databases, email servers, and enterprise applications with granular restore capabilities. Single-file restoration lets you recover specific data without pulling entire backup sets. Deduplication and compression reduce storage requirements and network bandwidth. Cloud integration works well across AWS, Azure, and other major providers, with data moving securely between clouds as needed. The unified interface manages protection policies across distributed environments from one console. SaaS application protection includes Microsoft 365 with policy-based controls.
Users with 15+ years of Veritas experience report consistent reliability across any workload type. The platform handles physical, virtual, and cloud environments while supporting storage from tape to disk to object storage. Something to be aware of is that configuration and setup complexity require experienced IT professionals. Licensing creates budget friction, particularly when adding storage or expanding deployments.
We think Veritas Alta Data Protection fits enterprises with experienced staff protecting critical data across hybrid environments who need broad workload coverage from one console. The long track record of reliability is a real selling point. Smaller teams without backup expertise will struggle with setup and configuration demands.
When evaluating data protection platforms, these are the critical questions you should be asking:
Prioritize automation if you want to reduce daily management. Prioritize recovery speed if your business can’t tolerate extended downtime. Smaller teams should weight implementation simplicity and vendor support heavily.
Expert Insights is an independent editorial team that researches, tests, and reviews cybersecurity and IT solutions. No vendor can pay to influence our review of their products. Our scores are based solely on product quality. Before testing, we map the full vendor market, identifying active vendors from market leaders to emerging challengers.
We evaluated eight data protection platforms across hybrid infrastructure, multi-cloud environments, diverse workload types, and disaster recovery scenarios. We assessed backup reliability, recovery speed, policy automation, ransomware resilience and implementation complexity, plus the actual experience teams report after deployment. Each platform was evaluated for ease of configuration, interface usability, and operational burden.
Beyond hands-on testing, we conducted in-depth market research across the backup and disaster recovery space and reviewed customer feedback and interviews to validate vendor claims against operational reality. We spoke with product teams to understand architecture decisions, roadmap priorities, and competitive positioning. Our editorial and commercial teams operate independently. No vendor can pay to influence our review of their products.
This guide is updated quarterly. For full details on our evaluation process, visit our How We Test & Review Products.
No single data protection platform excels at every workload and deployment model.
If policy automation and fast recovery across hybrid infrastructure matter most, Rubrik Cloud Data Management delivers with automated SLA policies that eliminate manual scheduling. Watch pricing for smaller environments.
For MSPs and enterprises needing proven disaster recovery with immutable protection, Datto SIRIS handles fast recovery and multi-tenant management well.
For thorough multi-cloud coverage across diverse workloads, Veritas Alta Data Protection protects physical, virtual, cloud, and SaaS environments from one console. Requires backup expertise but delivers full coverage.
For MSPs wanting consolidation with antimalware and patching included, Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud bundles protection functions. Simplifies vendor management for teams handling multiple client environments.
If your team wants to eliminate backup infrastructure entirely, Druva Data Resiliency Cloud handles cloud-native simplicity with fast device replacement. Ideal for distributed teams prioritizing global accessibility.
For MSP Microsoft 365 backup specifically, N-able Cove Data Protection delivers straightforward multitenant management with included cloud storage and predictable pricing.
Read the individual reviews above to dig into deployment specifics, pricing, and the trade-offs that matter for your workload mix and infrastructure scale.
Data Protection-as-a-Service (DPaaS) is a cloud-delivered software package that enables organizations to secure their data through security, backup, recovery, and archiving modules. These modules are all delivered via a single platform on a consumption-based model, and the “as-a-Service” part of DPaaS means that the security provider also offers the necessary server resources and infrastructure within the subscription or SLA, so you don’t have to manage that in-house. This makes DPaaS much easier to manage—and often more cost effective—than the traditional method of deploying multiple disparate, on-premises security tools.
Some DPaaS solutions focus largely on data backup and disaster recovery, but many modern DPaaS solutions offer a wide range of in-built security tools such as vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, VPNs, incident management, firewalls, and access controls to help safeguard your data.
DPaaS solutions enable organizations to swap from using and maintaining multiple security and backup tools, to using just one data security solution, which they subscribe to on a consumption-based or “pay-as-you-go” model. To achieve this, DPaaS offers the resources, infrastructure, and APIs needed to implement and automate data protection and recovery processes. You can then configure security policies to bring the solution in line with your organization’s requirements.
To work out your billing, DPaaS providers analyze your previous workloads to calculate how much compute, networking, and storage your organization needs. This ensures that you only pay for what you use and enables you to scale up your usage as your business grows.
There are numerous benefits to implementing a Data Protection-as-a-Service solution:
There are lots of Data Protection-as-a-Service solutions on the market, each with features catering to different use cases and industries. However, there are some features that you should look for in any DPaaS solution, no matter the size or industry of your organization. These include:
Caitlin Harris is the Deputy Head of Content at Expert Insights. As an experienced content writer and editor, Caitlin helps cybersecurity leaders to cut through the noise in the cybersecurity space with expert analysis and insightful recommendations.
Prior to Expert Insights, Caitlin worked at QA Ltd, where she produced award-winning technical training materials, and she has also produced journalistic content over the course of her career.
Caitlin has 8 years of experience in the cybersecurity and technology space, helping technical teams, CISOs, and security professionals find clarity on complex, mission critical topics like security awareness training, backup and recovery, and endpoint protection.
Caitlin also hosts the Expert Insights Podcast and co-writes the weekly newsletter, Decrypted.
Laura Iannini is a Cybersecurity Analyst at Expert Insights. With deep cybersecurity knowledge and strong research skills, she leads Expert Insights’ product testing team, conducting thorough tests of product features and in-depth industry analysis to ensure that Expert Insights’ product reviews are definitive and insightful.
Laura also carries out wider analysis of vendor landscapes and industry trends to inform Expert Insights’ enterprise cybersecurity buyers’ guides, covering topics such as security awareness training, cloud backup and recovery, email security, and network monitoring. Prior to working at Expert Insights, Laura worked as a Senior Information Security Engineer at Constant Edge, where she tested cybersecurity solutions, carried out product demos, and provided high-quality ongoing technical support.
Laura holds a Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity from the University of West Florida.