How to Use hubiC: Setup, Sync, and Backup GuidehubiC was a cloud storage service offered by OVH that provided file synchronization, backup, and sharing. This guide explains how hubiC worked, how to set it up, how to sync files and configure backups, and what alternatives to consider today. Note: hubiC’s availability changed over time — check current status before following any setup steps.
What hubiC offered (short overview)
hubiC provided:
- Cloud storage for files and folders accessible from desktop and mobile apps.
- Folder synchronization between devices using a local sync folder.
- Automatic backups for selected folders.
- File sharing links to give others access to files.
- Client apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Before you begin
- Confirm hubiC is still operational and available for new accounts. Services evolve; OVH has modified or retired offerings in the past.
- Have a registered account (email and password).
- Decide which devices you want to sync (PC, laptop, phone, tablet) and what folders you want backed up.
- Check your internet connection and available local disk space for the hubiC sync folder.
Creating an account and logging in
- Visit the hubiC website (through OVH’s site or hubiC portal—verify current URL).
- Click Sign up / Create account and enter your email and password. Confirm your email if a verification step is required.
- Download the appropriate hubiC client for your device from the official site. Avoid unofficial downloads.
Installing the desktop client (Windows/macOS/Linux)
- Download the installer for your OS.
- Run the installer and follow prompts. On macOS you may need to grant the app permission to access Files & Folders in System Preferences. On Linux follow distro-specific install instructions (some distributions used a .deb or .rpm package, or a tarball with an install script).
- Launch the hubiC client and sign in with your account credentials.
- During initial setup the client often asks for a location for the hubiC sync folder (default is inside your user folder). Choose a drive with enough free space.
- Allow the client to create and manage the sync folder; it will start synchronizing files between cloud and local folder.
Installing the mobile app (Android/iOS)
- Open Google Play Store or Apple App Store and search for hubiC (or follow the link on the official site).
- Install the app and sign in.
- Grant permissions requested by the app (storage, photos) so it can back up selected media and files.
- Configure automatic camera uploads or select folders to back up from your device.
Syncing files and folders
- The hubiC sync model uses a local sync folder that mirrors cloud storage.
- To sync files: copy or move files into the hubiC sync folder on your desktop; the client uploads changes to the cloud.
- On other devices, ensure the hubiC client is installed and signed in — files placed in the cloud will download to each device’s sync folder.
- For selective sync (if supported): open the client settings and choose which folders in the cloud to keep locally. This saves disk space by leaving other folders online-only.
Tips:
- Keep large files and many small files in mind — upload and download speed depend on your bandwidth.
- Avoid editing the same file on multiple devices simultaneously to prevent conflicts. If conflicts occur, clients usually create duplicate files with conflict markers in the name.
Configuring backups
- hubiC allowed backing up arbitrary local folders (not just the sync folder) in many clients. Use the backup feature to protect important data such as Documents, Desktop, or Pictures.
- To set up a backup: open the client’s Backup or Preferences pane, add the folders you want backed up, and choose scheduling or continuous backup if available.
- Verify backup frequency and retention settings—some services allow file versioning, which lets you restore previous versions of files.
Best practices:
- Back up critical folders and test restores periodically.
- Combine local backups (external drive) with cloud backups for redundancy (the 3-2-1 backup rule: 3 copies, 2 media types, 1 offsite).
Restoring files and handling versioning
- To restore a file, use the hubiC client or web interface to navigate to the file and download it.
- If hubiC supported file versioning, look for a version history option to restore earlier revisions.
- For deleted files, check the trash or deleted items area in the web interface—most cloud storage providers keep deleted files for a limited time.
Sharing files and links
- hubiC provided link-based sharing: right-click a file in the sync folder or use the web interface to create a share link.
- Configure link permissions and expiry if the feature is offered (set passwords or expiry dates when available).
- Use link-sharing for large files instead of email attachments.
Security and privacy considerations
- Use a strong, unique password and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if hubiC/OVH offers it.
- Encrypt very sensitive files before uploading if you want end-to-end confidentiality beyond the provider’s protections. Tools like Veracrypt or client-side encryption can help.
- Review the provider’s privacy policy and data residency options if locality of data storage matters for legal or compliance reasons.
Troubleshooting common issues
- Sync stuck/queued: pause and resume the client, restart the app, or check for file permission issues.
- Low disk space: enable selective sync or move the sync folder to a larger drive.
- Large backlog after reinstall: allow time for initial upload; use wired connection if uploads are slow.
- App won’t start: reinstall client, check OS permissions, and review logs for errors.
Alternatives to hubiC
If hubiC is unavailable or you want other options, common alternatives are:
- Dropbox — strong syncing, many integrations.
- Google Drive — built into Google accounts, good collaboration.
- Microsoft OneDrive — integrates with Windows and Office.
- pCloud — client-side encryption option and lifetime plans.
- Backblaze — excellent unlimited backups for personal use (backup-focused).
| Service | Strengths | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dropbox | Reliable sync, integrations | Free tier limited |
| Google Drive | Collaboration, apps | Tied to Google account |
| OneDrive | Windows/Office integration | Good for Windows users |
| pCloud | Client-side encryption option | Paid tiers include lifetime |
| Backblaze | Unlimited backup for PCs | Designed for backups, not file sharing |
Final notes
Because cloud services change over time, confirm hubiC’s current operational status and feature set on the official site before proceeding. If hubiC is discontinued, migrate your data to another provider using the web interface or client export features.
If you want, tell me which OS/devices you’ll use and I’ll give step-by-step setup instructions tailored to them.
Leave a Reply