GoKawiilDeveloper builds free 3-2-1 backup system across Linux devices to avoid cloud fees
A hobbyist developer detailed a personal project to implement the classic 3-2-1 backup strategy—three copies of data, on two different media, with one copy offsite—entirely using free, self-managed tools. The effort was sparked by frustration with paying for cloud storage like Google One just to access files they already own, and involved syncing a Minisforum mini-PC, a Lenovo laptop, external hard drives, and mobile devices.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The piece reflects a broader pushback against subscription-based cloud storage, showing how technically inclined users are reclaiming control over their own data with open-source and local solutions. It highlights the real complexity involved in building reliable personal backup systems without relying on commercial services.
- The 3-2-1 backup rule requires three data copies across two media types with one stored offsite.
- The author avoided paid cloud storage after past frustration with Google One.
- Implementing a personal backup system across multiple devices (PCs, laptop, phone, tablet) posed significant technical challenges.
Western Digital Elements Portable External Hard Drive — If you're building a 3-2-1 backup setup, the hard drive layer is the piece you actually have to buy, and WD's Elements portable drive is a no-frills USB workhorse that plugs straight into a Linux box and just mounts. Pair it with rsync or your sync tool of choice and you've got the second storage medium covered without paying a monthly cloud fee.
See Western Digital Elements Portable External Hard Drive on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: smarmelling.com, 2026-08-31
Published there as: “Creating Backup Storage Sucks”
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