In-depth Review of BackBlaze Online Backup

Overview and History

BackBlaze have just the one option which provides unlimited storage for $5 each month or $50 per annum. Their approach to internet backups is fairly unusual because they presume you would like to backup all your personal files - documents, music, pictures, videos, etc. - so you have to remove files you do not require backed up. The program offers support for 11 languages and file restores can be delivered from the internet or for a fee can be mailed to you on DVDs or a USB drive.

Feature Set

Security

BackBlaze security is something they are very proud of. They use double encryption systems involving 128bit AES encryption and a private key to gaurantee your data is truly protected.

Physically, BackBlaze's data center is in 365 Main Datacenter where they share space with Sun Micro, CNet and Esurance amongst others.

For extra info. about their security, see this entry on their blog

Backup Features

Initially BackBlaze uses continuous backup to guarentee all amendments to your files are immediately archived. You can also enable scheduling or manually kick off backups whenever you require.

Open files can be archived, however, server databases such as SQL server or Exchange Server are not supported. You can archive plug-in drives but not network drives. File versioning is available upto 45 days for unlimited versions of files.

Restore Features

Restores are performed from the internet portal and can be provided in 3 ways: A compressed file directly to any device you wish - this is free. The second option is to DVD if you are restoring less than 4Gb of data - this will cost you $99. Or if you are restoring additional data, they will send you a portable drive and charge you $189.
These options seem quite steep but most Internet Backup Providers do not even offer these options.

Control and Analysis

A central control panel is provided on the internet site that allows management of multiple accounts. Within the client program you can see details of files waiting to be archived as well as summary graphs of what has already been backed up.

Interface

The web and client interfaces are simple and easy to use. Information is provided in a clear and concise way and there are a reasonable amount of options without there being a bombardment.

Device Support

Current BackBlaze supports MAC and PC platforms only.

Limitations

None.

File Sharing and Collaboration

None.

Synchronization

With web site but not between computers.

Web 2.0 Integration

None.

Customer Support

There is no direct support, i.e., phone or live chat. But there is email support which is quickly responded to and the tech. support people are friendly and well-informed. There is also a Blog full of useful information.

For self-help there is some documentation - although the system is so easy that more documentation would be fairly pointless. There is also an FAQ section and the free trial which lasts 2 weeks, so you have loads of time to assess the service before committing your whole five dollars per month!

Ease of Use

BackBlaze is really straightforward to use, if you leave it at the default settings, then it will backup all your personal data from all your attached drives automatically. If you need to change things then the options screens are well laid out and easy to navigate.

Cost

Initial setup - free
Monthly Fee - $5 / mth / device
Annual Cost - $50 / year / device
Initial permitted storage amount - unlimited
Cost of additional storage - n/a
Cost of additional devices / PCs / users - $5 / mth / device
Referral Program - No
E-billing facility - Yes

Conclusion

BackBlaze is quick to setup and use. The experience of setting up BackBlaze was similar to jumping on a frisky horse: The problem is not getting started; the problem is trying to keep up! After BackBlaze is installed it immediately scans your locally connected drives, locates your personal files such as documents, pictures, music, etc. and immediately begins to back them up for you. It's comparable to having your very own over-eager Jeannie desperate to get the job done.

The cost is really cheap and while there are quite a lot of customer support options not provided, the available support is very well done and their technical staff are helpful and friendly.

If you are looking for a straightforward online backup solution at a fixed price then BackBlaze is well worth considering.

In-depth Review of SpiderOak Online Backup and Sync

Overview and History

SpiderOak is a privately held business who are headquartered in Northbrook, Illinios and were formed in December 2007. SpiderOak provide an Online Backup, Online Synchronization and Online Sharing Service which gives 100Gb of web storage for ten dollars a month and you can have upto 1.5Tb of storage in 100Gb chunks, each chunk requiring an additional $10 a month.

Feature Set

Security

SpiderOak put security enormously seriously. Unsatisfied with 256bit AES encryption on information when transferring and on their servers; they additionally shield your information by using 2048bit RSA password encryption. That's about as secure as you can get.

They additionally provide 'zero-knowledge' information encryption which means that at at every stage, there is absolutely no way that anybody - even SpiderOak staff - are able to view any of your data, not even the folder and file names.

Physically, their data center - which is owned by them rather than outsourcing - is curring edge with redundancy at all stages and multiple high speed connections to internet service providers. They in addition offer geographically redundant protection (where your information is stored in multiple data centers located in different parts of the world at the same time) for an extra cost.

Backup Features

SpiderOak uses a storage redundancy methodology that means only one copy of a unique file is held on their servers. If you have the same file in separate folders, then they leave a marker in each folder but only store one original. This reduces the quantity of space you require and allows SpiderOak to store unlimited file versions of any document but only stores and uploads the differences between the editions.

This makes uploads much quicker and reduces the amount of storage space required. For additional control over file versions, there is an ability to erase old versions as and when you wish to.

SpiderOak archives desktops, laptops and servers running MAC, windows or Linux; In addition to network drives and removable media all from a single account. Simply choose a drive for archiving and SpiderOak will monitor the drive for changes and new items and append them to your archive queue.

Click here for a short video about SpiderOak's archive features.

Restore Features

Since SpiderOak is a backup and synchronization product, you have instant internet access to any version of any file you have ever archived. If the file you need to restore is a synced file, then it will also be on any other device that you have setup for synchronization.

There is an option within the client program to retain a copy of all archived data blocks in a location of your choosing, this can be a local folder or an FTP or sFTP server. This allows for much faster restores if bandwidth is limited or restricted. SpiderOak will always check this location for restore blocks before retrieving from the offsite storage.

Control and Analysis

The desktop client provides details of which files are currently being backed up, what activities are being carried out within your SpiderOak network, a log of all the past activity and statistics including the total amount of storage being used within your SpiderOak network.

On the control side, the desktop software permits you to limit the maximum size of individual files that can be backed up and to not backup files older than a stated time as well as options to exclude specific files and folders.

Scheduling can be managed for archive, synchronization and sharing functions and can be set to anything from automatic to once every 2 days. When set to automatic any alteration to files within the backup, sync or share sets will be instantly addedapended to the upload list.

The SpiderOak client can use Proxy servers using the Network tab on the preferences screen. The amount of internet bandwidth that SpiderOak uses can be managed from the Network tab.

Interface

The desktop client interface is very comprehensive, there are five tabs:

• Status - provides information of shares, syncs and backups from all of the computers associated with your account. As well as the total amount of your current storage allowance being used.
• Backup - this is where you choose which files to backup on the current machine.
• View - This shows currently backed up files and folders for each of the computers in your SpiderOak network and lets you to download any file or folder as a compressed (zip) file.
• Sync - This tab lets you to setup or configure sync jobs between PCs in your SpiderOak network.
• Share - The final tab manages and shows the status of shares.

The internet portal is a lot more straightforward: It displays a simple tree structure of files and folders organized under each computer that is a part of your SpiderOak network.

Device Support

SpiderOak currently supports computers using Linux, Windows or MAC. This includes server operating systems.

File Sharing and Collaboration

SpiderOak uses a facility called ShareRooms which lets you share your information . Changes to any files in ShareRooms are automatically available to all members of the ShareRoom and changes are appended to an newsfeed so members can be kept up-to-date with the latest changes.

The files and folders in a ShareRoom can be from any machine within your SpiderOak network, not just files synced to the online portal. When a ShareRoom is created it is assigned a unique web address which you can distribute to anyone you want to access the ShareRoom or you may ask people to login to SpiderOak's website using the ShareRoom username and password created when the ShareRoom was setup.

Synchronization

SpiderOak has synchronization at its heart: You are allowed to have an unlimited number of PCs in a single account and configure all of them to synchronize with a central repository.

It is possible to configure separate synchronization zones for your data and the whole system is protected in their impressive encryption blanket.

Web 2.0 Integration

Not at this time.

Customer Support

There is no telephone or live chat, however, the email support is great as is the forum and blog.

The list of non-interactive support options is fairly wide:

• Documentation
• FAQs
• Demos
• Testimonials
• Tutorials
• Case Studies

There is also a free edition which offers 2Gb of storage.

Ease of Use

You can sign up, download the SpiderOak program, and be protected by SpiderOak in under five minutes. The client is chic, easy to use and offers loads of information without overwhelming you. Shares, synchronizations and backups are all easy to setup and monitor.

Cost

Initial setup - free
Monthly Fee - $10 / mth / 100Gb
Annual Cost - $100 / year / 100Gb
Initial allowed storage amount - 100Gb
Cost of additional storage - $10 / 100Gb
Cost of additional devices / PCs / users - unlimited
Referral Program - Yes
E-billing facility - Yes

Conclusion

SpiderOak gives a great way to backup, synchronize and share data from an unlimited amount of devices with a single account. The pricing is very reasonable and because more storage is always available in tidy 100Gb chunks you never have to worry about running out of growing space.
Add to this the unlimited file versioning and easy restore options and SpiderOak is a real winner. The only downside is that portable devices such as iPhones and PDAs are not currently supported. However, if you are using Windows, MAC or Linux devices that need to share or sync files then SpiderOak is an excellent choice.

Review of Acronis Online Backup

Overview and History

Acronis started in 2001. Originally they concentrated on drive partitioning programs, then expanded their scope into the archiving and disaster recovery fields and now encompass the whole area of computer protection. Their most well known product: Acronis True Image is intended to backup hard drives, network drives and external media. In 2010 they released Acronis Backup and Recovery 10 for large business clients.
The Acronis Online backup solution was released in 2010 and can be setup as a standalone program or as part of the Acronis True Image Suite. This is Acronis' first offering in the online storage world and marks a big step in securing your data.

Feature Set

Security

Security is government grade: Data is secured with 256 AES encryption both during transfer and when help in their data centers. You can pick an encryption password which keeps your information even more protected . A note of warning: if you forget the password you will lose all the information you have backed up. So keep it safe!

Backup Features

Acronis Online Backup is a no nonsense backup scheduling service. When you have downloaded and run the client utility, simply choose the files and folders you wish to backup and then either set a schedule for the files to be backed up or select the 'Back Up Now' button. The client does back up open / in use files yet appears not to use 'block level incremental backups' which means that whole files will be archived not just the parts of the files that have been changed. This will mean that backups are slower than some other Online Backup providers.
File versioning is available and an unlimited amount of editions can be stored for up to 45 days. It is possible to set an exact number of editions to store.

Restore Features

Restores can be performed from either the client software or from the web portal. Either way, there is the ability to select which edition of a file you would like to retrieve. When selected, the file is returned to you as a zip (compressed) file which means you can save it anywhere you want.
If you have archived files multiple times in a day, then a scrollbar at the bottom of the client and online portal interfaces display the times of each successful backup and allows you to select these times to restore files from that particular backup.

Control and Analysis

If you use Acronis Online Backup in conjunction with another Acronis Product such as Acronis True Image then Online Backup flawlessly combines with the parent product and you have access to all the reporting, logging and controls from the parent application. If you use Acronis Online Backup as a standalone product, then there is no reporting or logging.
CPU System resource throttling can be set to Low, Medium or High and web bandwidth can be set to any limit you like. Proxy servers are also supported. Backup alerts can be sent to multiple email addresses and you can set up the client to perform pre- and post jobs, this can be very useful if lets say you want to backup a database to the local drive so it can be included in the online backup.

Interface

The client interface on the standalone edition is very simple and displays how much of your storage allowance you have used on each of up to five machines at a glance. It additionally displays when the next scheduled backup will take place. The web portal interface is almost identical to the client interface with the exception of the backup options.

Device Support

Currently only supports Windows client operating systems.

Limitations

No support for MAC, mobile devices or server platforms.
No way to extend past the 250Gb allowance.
No way to add more than 5 PCs to an account.

File Sharing and Collaboration

None.

Synchronization

Synchronization to the web portal but not between PCs.

Web 2.0 Integration

None.

Customer Support

Customer Support options are:

• LiveChat
• Knowledgebase
• Forums
• Email a question from a internet form
• Self-help options are: User Guides, FAQs, Demo, Tutorials and Testimonials
• Telephone support can be purchased on a per incident basic for $11.84.

Ease of Use

The client is straightforward to configure and very easy to run. The interface makes managing up to 5 PCs very easy and gives an instant overview of how much information has been archived for each PC as well as how much you have left. The interface is bright and uncluttered with no learning curve needed to get up and running.

Cost

• Initial setup is free
• Monthly Fee: $3.95 / mth
• Yearly Cost: $39.95 / year
• Initial storage allowance: 250Gb
• Number of PCs allowed: Up to 5 PCs can share the 250Gb allowance.
• Charge for additional storage: n/a
• Cost of extra devices / PCs / users: n/a
• E-billing facility: Yes
• Free Version / Free Trial: There is a 2 month free trial which gives 2Gb of archive space.
• Hidden costs: Phone support can be purchased on a single incident basis for $11.84.

Conclusion

This is Acronis' first try at an internet backup solution and I think they have done rather well. The fact that the utility can be standalone or integrated into the existing client software is a brilliant touch and gives flexibility for users. There are a few items absent from the standalone version, for example reporting and centralized control of all PCs within one account. But these will probably become available in time.

The single plan offers a generous 250Gb of storage for a very reasonable cost and the client can be setup to use as much or as little resource and bandwidth as you wish. The interface is clear and easy to use and file restoring is quick and reliable.

To sum up Acronis have made a solid, straightforward and very reliable online backup solution at a great price which is underpinned by the Acronis name: A worldwide leader in backup technology. A great option from a great name.
If you want even more security, then buy one of their suites , such as Acronis True Image Home and get complete PC protection.

Review of Data Deposit Box Online Backup

Overview and History

The first utility for Data Deposit Box was invented by Tim Jewell and Rob Schenkel. In 2002, Tim and Rob joined with Jamie Brenzel to create Acpana Business Systems Inc. In 2003, they launched Data Deposit Box to the general public. They are home office in Toronto, Canada and have a USA office in New York.
They offer a single plan which gives easy, low pricing and makes Data Deposit Box very attractive to both individuals and companies needing a easy, smart archive solution.

Feature Set

Security

Data Deposit Box provide the best security I have seen. Your information is encrypted with Blowfish 448bit encryption both during transfer and when stored in their data centers - that equates to bank and military grade protection! As well as that, your data are moved using a special protocol invented specifically for web archiving.
Also you are provided with your own logon details that create a unique encryption key and ensure that no one - not even the administrators at Data Deposit Box - can access your files.
On the physical side, your data is held in a carrier grade (that's the highest grade) data center with redundant hardware at every level, fire suppression systems and 24x7 real guards.

Archiving Features

Data Deposit Box own a patent on their Continuous Backup System which waits for files to be altered, copies the changes, compresses them , encrypts them and securely transfers them to their data centers. This allows for faster backups and lets open files such as Outlook to be backed up without closing the program first.
File versioning is active: By default 3 copies of all files will be kept, yet this can be amended to a maximum of 28 if so required. Yet, each version - which just holds the alterations from the previous version - counts towards your storage amount.
When first installed, Data Deposit Box automatically picks several folders in your local profile: My Documents, Desktop, Favorites, and Outlook Express. You can easily change, add or delete folders from the backup list by using the client software.

Restore Features

Restores are very straightforward, simply right-click the Data Deposit Box icon in the system tray and click Restore. Now navigate to the folder you want to recover, right-click and select restore.
Previous versions of files can be retrieved via the internet site.

Control and Analysis

There is a clever function called: 'Backup and Resume': Backups automatically wait when the keyboard or mouse is active to give more processor speed and internet bandwidth. When the keyboard and mouse are idle for a while, the backup will continue from where it left off.

Interface

The client program interface is rather old-style - nearly to the point of retro - and looks very corporate. However, it operates well, used few resources and shows you all the information you need.
The internet site is rather prettier yet also feels very corporate. That said, it does offer a wealth of information and configuration options. There is even a Corporate Administration section where you can setup all the users you need to use the service.
The reporting section tells you exactly what has been archived and when. The My Data area uses a straightforward tree navigation system to hunt down any of your archived data along with a search function in case you can't remember where a particular file is hiding.

Device Support

At the time of writing there is support for MACs and PCs via the client. Any online enabled device can access the backed up files but the devices are unable to be backed up themselves.

Limitations

The more you archive, the more you have to pay.

File Sharing and Collaboration

Private file sharing is enabled on the online site and can be configured on individual files or entire folders. Each share can be given a unique password and this can be sent out along with a unique internet address to allow access to the specific files and folders you want shared. There is also an online photo album feature that can be shared in the same way. In both cases, files can be viewed and downloaded but not amended.
Public file sharing and file collaboration is unavailable.

Synchronization

Synchronization is only available from the desktop software to the web portal. Not between devices.

Web 2.0 Integration

None.

Customer Support

Phone support is available in standard business hours. There is a lack of live chat, forum or blog. However, you can contact support using email or by completing the internet form. They seem very keen on self-help and offer a detailed knowledgebase / FAQs section. There are also testimonials, tutorials, a demo and webinars available.
There is not a free version, however, there is a 15 day trial.

Ease of Use

Both the internet and client interfaces are straightforward to navigate around and use. Once setup, you really don't notice the desktop client working accept for the icon in the system tray gently blinking to indicate a backup is underway. There are loads of options available, however, everything is well laid out and looks good - if a bit retro.

Cost

• Initial setup: free
• Monthly Cost: $2 / Gb / mth
• Initial permitted storage amount: unlimited
• Cost of additional storage: $2 / Gb / Mth
• Cost of additional devices / PCs / users: unlimited
• Referral Program: Yes. $10 is credited to your account and the account of the people you refer once they pay their first invoice.
• E-billing facility: Yes
• Hidden cost: File versions add towards your storage usage, so only set versioning to the amount you actually need.

Conclusion

Overall Data Deposit Box is a solid, really secure online archive service. The client's styling is a touch dated but it has that 'built to last' feel which gives the impression that this product will never let you down and will last forever. The backup features are great, although the lack of an ability to schedule backups is a bit hard to get used to. During testing, the first archive of 2Gb of data took a long time: Over 4 hours, yet this has to be weighed against the point that there was nearly zero processor or bandwidth reduction because the client stops whenever you use the PC.
The pricing is good if you have a small amount of data that requires protecting on several computers. If you have a lot of data then this program could get quite expensive. Additionally you will need to watch data expansion if you want to control costs.
The private sharing and photo album abilities are nice touches yet it would be better to see this expanded by links with internet document services like Google Docs and Zoho as well as photo editing services.
As a final summary we would say that Data Deposit Box is a great solution if you have a small amount of data spread across multiple machines. If you have a lot of data then there are cheaper solutions available.

Review of ElephantDrive Online Backup Solution

Overview and History

ElephantDrive was setup by a group of techies who are passionate about creating world class programs and excited by the challenges of storing, securing, and protecting massive amounts of data. ElephantDrive are headquartered in LA and have worked together for several years designing and providing web applications.

Currently they have 1 free edition, 2 home editions, 2 business accounts and corporate options.

Feature Set

Security

Files being moved to and from their servers are protected with 128bit SSL encryption; which is the industry standard. When on their servers your information is protected using 256 AEG encryption. You can use a personal encryption key to further secure your data.

Backup Features

Open and locked files can be backed up in the business editions but not in the home editions. Portable hard drives can be in all {editions except the Home edition, yet network drives can be archived in the Professional accounts.
Backups can be continuous or scheduled, if continuous, then only files that are amended are archived. Backups can be setup to backup by folder or by file type. There is a program called TrunkManager that permits you to transfer files directly from your computer to the ElephantDrive using either drag-and-drop or by choosing the data you would like to move and select the upload or download buttons.

File versioning is automatically setup however the number of versions allowed depends on the edition used:

• home edition gives 3 file versions
• home pro edition allows up to 10 versions
• pro edition allows 20 versions
• pro plus edition gives unlimited versions

Restore Features

Files can be recovered via either the 'TrunkManager' or the internet. Either way, navigate to the file you wish to restore and drag-and-drop the data to your computer. If you want to restore a particular version, then click on the item and pick 'Version History'. Then just pick the version you want to retrieve. Restores start almost instantly.

Control and Analysis

All backup jobs can be stopped, paused or resumed any time from the desktop client Progress Report. This is also where you will find the error and transfer logs. Processor and bandwidth usage are determined by the client program, yet you can set throttling to on, off or scheduled for specific times.

Interface

The ElephantDrive can be setup as a logical drive letter using the software installed alongside the client software. The online portal provides access to your whole backed up file list and you can view and restore different file versions from here.
The Pro Plus account provides centralized administration functionality and all versions allow use of Proxy servers.

Device Support

MAC OS X and higher
Windows 7, Vista, 2003, XP, 2000
Linux support is being developed

Limitations

Maximum file size: Home - 1Gb; Home Plus - 2Gb; Pro - 2.5Gb; Pro Plus - 5Gb
Maximum Monthly Transfer Limit: Home and Home Plus - 100Gb; Pro - 1Tb; Pro Plus - 2Tb
Maximum Number of Computers: Home - 1; Home Pro - 4; Pro - 10; Pro Plus - 20

File Sharing and Collaboration

Any file uploaded to your ElephantDrive can be privately shared by selecting the file in Trunk Explorer and choosing share. Then simply add the email addresses of the people you would like to share the file with and they will get a unique web address to the file. Public File sharing is not supported.
ElephantDrive does not support collaboration.

Synchronization

PCs sync to the online portal however not directly to each other.

Web 2.0 Integration

At this time ElephantDrive does not have connections with any web utilities or social network sites.

Customer Support

Self-help support is good: Options are a knowledgebase, forum and blog for chatting with other users and ElephantDrive staff. To answer common questions there is a excellent FAQ section and the user documentation is also very good. There are tutorials, testimonials, demos, webinars and case studies.
You may contact ElephantDrive privately: Either using email or by filling in the web form. There is telephone support however only by appointment. I found their customer support very helpful, knowledgeable and eager to help.

Ease of Use

Both the web portal and the client program are very simply to use. If you can use windows explorer, then you can use ElephantDrive. Adding files to backup sets and restoring data is intuitive and easy. Mapping ElephantDrive as a local drive took a bit of finding however when setup it behaves like any other network drive.

Cost

• Initial setup cost: free
• Monthly Cost: Home - $4.95/mth; Home Plus - $9.95/mth; Pro - $34.95/mth; Pro Plus - $99.95/mth
• Yearly Cost: Home - $49.95/yr; Home Plus - $99.50/yr; Pro - $349.95/yr; Pro Plus - $999.95/yr
• Initial allowed storage quota: Home, Home Plus - unlimited; Pro - 1Tb; Pro Plus - 2Tb
• Cost of additional storage: - n/a
• Cost of additional devices / PCs / users: n/a
• E-billing facility: Yes

Conclusion

ElephantDrive is a smooth and streamlined archive client. While it is extremely well made and does its job well, it would be ever better to see some web 2.0 integration to permit alteration of files directly from the web portal. At this point ElephantDrive is a solid, effective and reliable Online Backup Solution, yet I can't shake the feeling that there is so much more the service could be offering. We would love to see ElephantDrive develop into a full-blown Online Storage and Collaboration Service. We will have to wait and see what happens. For the moment, if you would like a very reliable, fast and easy Online Backup Solution then ElephantDrive is an perfect choice.

Review of iDrive
Online Backup

Overview and History

iDrive is a utility of Pro Softnet Corporation, an ASP and Internet Solutions Provider based in Woodland Hills, CA. Since its incorporation in 1995, Pro Softnet Corp. has been utilizing the power of technology by offering net-based solutions and niche Web Software solutions for lots Fortune 100 companies. Pro Softnet also offer iBackup which is aimed squarely at the business arena.

Feature Set

Security

The internet portal is password protected and secured with 128bit SSL encryption during transfer to and from their data centers. When on the servers your information is protected with 256bit AES encryption and there is an ability to set a private key.

Physically, the iDrive utility is managed at data centers in the United States. The world-class facilities are specifically designed with raised floors, HVAC temperature control systems with separate cooling zones and seismically braced racks. They give the best range of physical security features, including state-of-the-art smoke detection and fire suppression systems, motion detectors, round-the-clock secured access, video camera surveillance and security breach alarms.

Backup Features

iDrive backs up your data using block level incrementation so just the bits of the files that are amended get uploaded. Continuous backup is also used to ensure your information is backed up as soon as it changes. Additionally, you can schedule backups for specific times if you want. Unusually for online backup solutions, both network drives and removable drives can be included in the backup set. Yet open and locked files cannot be archived on network and removable drives.
Files and folders can be added to the backup set using right-click on windows computers and there are status notifications and progress indicators to let you know which files are being backed up and which are still awaiting backup.

There is support for up to 30 versions of every file backed up which is great if you need to revert to an earlier version of a document.
If you have loads of information to archive, iDrive offers a 'Rapid Serve' option for a one-off charge of just over $70. When you use this service, iDrive will send you an external USB hard drive to plug into your machine. You can then duplicate all your critical files onto the external drive and send it back to them. They then upload it to your account, reducing the first backup time from weeks to just a few days.

Restore Features

Files can be recovered from the local client by right-clicking on the file or directory you want to restore or from the internet portal by navigating to the file you want restored and picking the edition you wish to recover.

Control and Analysis

There is no processor management yet there are bandwidth controls. Logging and reporting is available from both the net portal and the client program. Support for socks and https proxy servers is also provided.

Interface

There is a admin portal in the basic, Pro and family editions and a far more expanded admin portal in the corporate edition. Multi-account management is available in the Family and SME editions. All packages need the client software.

Device Support

Windows and MAC client computers as well as server computers are supported as well as any net enabled devices via the web portal. There are specific applets for iPhone, Blackberry and Android. There is even a plugin for wordpress to enable you to back up your blog site!

Limitations

The Basic, Pro and Family versions cannot be used commercially.
The Basic and Pro versions allow backup of 1 device; the family edition permits upto five machines per account and the corporate version permits upto 100 accounts.

File Sharing and Collaboration

iDrive is an archiving service, not a collaboration or file sharing service.

Synchronization

Devices are synchronized with the internet portal but not directly with each other. Synchronization of more than on device is only an option in the Family and corp. editions.

Web 2.0 Integration

None.

Customer Support

Phone support is available during business hours only. Live Chat and email support are available. Self-help is available via user guides, white papers, data sheets, FAQs, testimonials, case studies and a demo. There is no forum but there is a blog.
There is no free trial but there is a free version which gives 2Gb of storage.

Ease of Use

The client software takes a few moments to download and setup. In under 5 minutes you will be starting your initial backup. Both the internet and client interfaces are easy to use and with the windows explorer extension installed you can right-click on a file and either archive it instantly or add it to the scheduled backup. Restores are just as easy, if there are multiple versions of a file, then you can choose whichever version you want via date stamp. There is also a extremely nifty search function for all backed up files.

Cost

Initial setup cost: free
Monthly Cost: Basic - free; Pro - $4.95/mth; Family - $14.95/mth; SME - from $9.95/mth to $49.95/mth
Yearly Cost: Basic - free; Pro - $49.50/yr; Family - $149.50/yr; SME - from $99.50/yr to $499.50/yr
Initial allowed storage amount: Basic - 2Gb; Pro - 150Gb; Family - 500Gb; SME - from 50Gb to 500Gb+
Cost of additional storage: SME - $0.50/gb/mth
Cost of additional devices / PCs / users: n/a
E-billing facility: Yes

Conclusion

If you are searching for a simple, no frills web-based archive tool then iDrive is a great choice. The cost is good and the family and business editions provide useful and appropriate add-on functions to let the administration of multiple accounts / devices. The interface is simple and crisp, the client software is light on resource usage and the encoding of your information both in transit and when on their servers is as good as any bank.

Need More Information? Visit the author's website for the best online backup solutions and online storage comparisons.

Review of DropBox Online Storage Solution

Overview and History

Dropbox has been around for a couple of years and they have done excellent things in that tiny amount of time. Notably their VoteBox method that invites you to select which features they work on first: Very clever. You can choose from 3 options: 1 free and 2 premium or pro version. The free edition provides 2 Gb wheras the Premium versions provide you with 50 or 100 Gb. Backup and synchronizing are straightforward to setup and work persistently unnoticed making this a real "set it and forget it" program. The company additionally offer unlimited file versioning as an option to the pro accounts.

PDA devices are fully supported with apps for iPhone and iTouch and a website for online enabled devices. Collaboration features include public and private file and folder sharing as well as commenting on files and folders. With many more features in being developed. Photo albums and video streaming are currenty supported. To get you started on the right track: If you follow their 'getting started guide' and complete most of the steps you get an bonus of 250Mb of storage! Great idea! If you would like even more storage, just invite friends and you get another 250Mb per referral up to a limit of 8Gb.

Dropbox was founded by Drew Houston and Arash Ferdowsi in 2007, and was founded using seed funding from Y Combinator. Today, Dropbox is well-funded by Sequoia Capital, Accel Partners, and Amidzad. Since launching publicly in September of 2008, they have gained more than 3,000,000 customers and are growing swiftly. They have been featured in many major media publications and shows, and have won awards from places like PC Magazine and CNET. Their drive is creating a service that rocks and putting it in millions of people's hands.

Feature Set

Security

DropBox has adaquate security: The web portal is SSL encrypted with a requirement for a username and password to view your data. Files in transit are protected with SSL encryption and when on their servers, your information is encrypted with 256 AES encryption. Additionally, they use the Amazon AWS service which is backed by the Amazon name and quality stamp.

Backup Features

Non-stop and 'Block Level' backups are used to make sure your files are constantly protected. Open files are archived on a continual basis by using 'Block level Incremental Backups' which means that DropBox only backs up the sections of a file that have been changed, instead of the entire file.
Including files and folders to the DropBox archive schedule is a snap: Just choose the files you want to protect and choose 'backup with DropBox'. Different copies of files are saved so you can always restore an earlier edition of a document if you overwrote it. There is a status indicator to indicate how the archive is progressing.
On the downside network and removable drives cannot be included in backups and business databases like exchange and SQL server are not supported directly.

Restore Features

Restoring your data is very easy. There are a couple of main choices: Restore via the web site: Just log in to your account, find the file you wish to retrieve and choose how you woud like to retrieve it. The alternative technique is even easier: Just use the DropBox Manager to restore any editon of a file.

Control and Analysis

There are processor and bandwidth throttling available from the DropBox client software. Reports and logging can also be read from the client software.
Proxy servers are configurable with options for HTTP, SOCKS4 and SOCKS5.

Interface

The interface is graceful and easy to use. There are just a few options available thus keeping everything simple and easy to use. There is client software to setup and once installed, the software makes a DropBox folder where all protected files are displayed.

Device Support

There is currently support for every device under the sun! The way DropBox is designed; if your devices can access the internet then they can make use of DropBox.

Limitations

The web site only supports file uploads of up to 300Mb each however you can bypass this by using compression tools like WinRAR or WinZip which allow you to cut large files into smaller bits. The restiction is not present if you utilize the client software.
File retention (before deletion) is 30 days unless you invest in 'Pack-Rat' which is available as an bolt-on to the pro editions and costs an additional $39 annually and provides you limitless file versions and file retention.

File Sharing and Collaboration

Information can be shared publicly - Allowing everyone to see them - or privately where you setup access rights to desired files and folders for each individual or group.
Photo Albums are supported and are sharable either publicly or privately.
Comments can be appended to each file that is shared and other people can be allowed to make additional comments to create a discussion about a particular file or folder.

Synchronization

Synchronization is supported between different devices and between devices and the web site. An excellent option is the LAN synchronization. This allows users on the same network (home or work) to rapidly synchronize changes locally without going to the internet first. This greatly reduces your internet bandwidth load.

Web 2.0 Integration

At the time of writing, there was no direct integration with online services to allow editing of documents, etc.

Customer Support

There is no phone, live chat or direct email customer support available. There are however, loads other forms of help available: You can contact support using a web form on their site; there is an extensive knowledgebase and FAQ section; the online help is complete to a sensible level. There are also tutorials, a demo and case studies available. However, by far the most useful resources for do-it-yourself support are the forum and blog. These are full of valuable advice and support from both the DropBox staff and individuals using the service.

Ease Of Use

Extremely straightforward to get setup with: Signup, login, download the program on all your machines and start syncing. As of December 2009 there is now a LAN syncronization feature which hugely speeds up local syncing. Both the desktop and web interfaces are clean, elegant and simple to use. Put simply a very easy service to use.

Cost

Cost - Initial setup: free
Cost - Monthly: Basic: free; Pro50 - $9.99 / mth; Pro100 - $19.99 / mth
Cost - Yearly: Basic: free; Pro50 - $99 / mth; Pro100 - $199 / yr
Cost - Initial allowed storage amount: Basic: 2Gb; Pro50 - 50Gb; Pro100 - 100Gb
Cost - of additional storage: n/a
Cost - of additional devices / PCs / users: n/a
Cost - Referral Program: 250Mb per referral up to a max. of 8Gb
Cost - E-billing facility: Free - n/a; Pro: yes

Conclusion

DropBox is really straightforward to setup and use. It offers almost all the features of a complete online storage solution: Backup, Web site, multiple device synchronization, file-versioning, online photo albums and file sharing. The only functionality missing is integration with internet programs to permit you to amend and create files directly in your DropBox. The pricing is fair although there are better options available if you require more storage than 100Gb. The security is very good and the customer support is good, although the lack of phone, live chat and direct email support is a bit limiting. The forum and blog are supurb places to get your problems discussed. If you need an all-round online storage solution then DropBox is an excellent choice.

Review of Mozy 2.0 Online Backup solution

Company background

Mozy Backup is the brainchild of the Decho Corporation which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the EMC2 Corporation, a fortune 500 company. Decho was founded in 2005. They currently have offices in Seattle, Washington with offices in Pleasant Grove, Utah; London, England; Shanghai, China; Montreal, Canada; and Bangalore, India.
Mozy currently has over 1,000,000 customers and over 50,000 businesses, preserving a total of at least 25 petabytes of data - that's 25,000 terabytes or 25000000 gigabytes!

Features

Security Abilities

MozyPro is a incredibly secure online backup product. All traffic to and from the Mozy servers is encrypted with 128bit SSL encryption which is the internet standard. Once on the servers your data is encrypted with either 448bit Blowfish technology or your own 256bit AES private key encryption. There is currently nothing better than this outside of the military.
As for datacenter security, the data centers implement 24/7/365 on-site monitoring and security, state-of-the-art fire detection and suppression power distribution and seismic safeguards that can withstand a 7.5 magnitude quake.

Backup Abilities

Mozy provides block level incremental online backups and can be organized to backup either on a specific schedule or constantly in the background. In our tests, it took below thirty minutes to backup 2,048 megabytes of data on a home 8mbps DSL line uploading and downloading other data. Also, because of the block level nature of Mozy's backup technology, open or locked files can be backed up easily.
A progress indicator is visible if you click on the icon in the system tray. Initially Mozy Online Backup includes all the current user's profile files including documents, music, videos, etc. However, it is a straight-forward task to add or remove folders and files to/from the backup job. The Home editions do not provide backup of network drives however, the Pro and Enterprise editions do. None of the products provide backup of removable media.
The commercial editions - MozyPro and MozyEnterprise - permit online backup solutions of Exchange server, SQL server and LDAP directories such as Active Directory and Lotus Notes.

Restore Abilities

File restore is by request on the web portal, the desktop application or by right-clicking in a folder and selecting restore. When a restore is requested, the system packages all the files requested into a compressed file and emails you when the restore is ready for collection. File versioning is available on all backed up media, so you can opt to restore an older version of any file you have backed up. Files can be restored to their initial location or to any location of your choosing.

Control and Analysis

MozyPro Online Backup accomodates your needs by allowing you to check how much CPU and bandwidth are accessible to the program. These can be easily adjusted from the desktop application. Proxy servers are also allowed and Mozy can be optimized to use these via the desktop application.
All activity that Mozy carries out is logged and can be examined either from the desktop application or via the web portal.

Interface

MozyPro shows a great deal of information and allows centralized configuration and logging which is ideal when managing backups on PCs and laptops that may not even be in the same country!. Multiple accounts can be setup as well as multiple devices. A more controlled portal is provided with MozyHome.

Device Support

Currently Mozy Online Backup only supports backup of MAC and PC clients. In addition MozyPro backs up MAC And PC servers.

Limitations:

- MozyHome cannot be utilized commercially.
- The basic free account is limited to 2Gb of storage although this can be extended by allowing other people to enrole. For every added signup you get an additional 250Mb of storage.
- There are no limits set on the size or type of individual files.
- There are also no limits on the total amount of data backed up or restored.
- Mozy free allows backup of 2 devices under 1 user account; MozyHome allows upto 5 devices but each additional device will cost $4.95 per month per device.
- Both MozyPro and MozyEnterprise permit limitless devices and users but there is a charge for each device.
- File retention - the amount of time a file remains available for restore after it has been 'deleted' - is 30 days for all account types.

File Sharing and Collaboration

MozyPro is not a file sharing or collaboration tool. It is a backup system. That being said, it does support sign-in, sign-out and multiple levels of security to an individual file level.

Synchronization

You can synchronize many devices.

Web 2.0 Integration

Mozy does not supply FaceBook or similar integration.

Customer Support

Mozy's customer support is commonsense: They provide great user guides, complete FAQs and a knowledgebase. There is also a blog and loads of testimonials and case studies available. Email support is available to all types of accounts, yet, telephone support is only free to MozyPro and MozyEnterprise users and live chat is not ready to free users.

Usability

MozyHome is really uncomplicated to use. You can go from signup to backup in under 5 minutes and it truly is a 'set it and forget it' system. MozyPro has a slightly steeper learning curve but this is understandable since it provides lots more features.

Closing comments

If you are searching for a certain, set-it-and-forget-it answer that is not too expensive, can grow or shrink to adapt to your needs and is a breeze to configure then Mozy Online Backup is your best solution. If you are trying to backup Terabytes of files that changes on a regular basis then there are more appropriate and cheaper solutions available.

Detailed Review of Carbonite Online Backup Service

Overview and History

Carbonite are based in Boston, MA and they launched their online backup solution in May 2006. At the time of writing they backup and protect more than 2.5bn files for all 5 continents. They were founded in 2005 by David Friend and Jeff Flowers.

Carbonite is a simple, risk-free online backup program for relaxed home users, students, home office users, industrial travelers, etc. For less than five dollars per month, Carbonite archives all files on your desktop (digital photos, mp3s, spreadsheets and other important files) whilst your laptop is linked to the Internet.

Carbonite is very easy to install and use, needing little or no ongoing user fiddling. There online backup program is arranged to continually store amended data from your Pc whenever it is connected to the internet.

Feature Set

Security

Carbonite security is very reliable. Traffic to and from your laptop and their servers is encrypted with triple DES - which is highly strong - and once on their servers your information is encoded by Blowfish 448bit encryption - which is the best protection available.

Physically your data is held on dual up-to-date facilities located in Massachusetts that provide carefully temperature-controlled rooms, reserve power generators, restricted personnel access, and other functions to protect the security and integrity of your information.

Backup Features

By default Carbonite will backup your 'My Documents and Settings' folders yet this can quickly be altered with the desktop software. There is no limit to the amount of data that can be stored, therefore you can choose as many or as few files as you wish.

Backups start when your computer is idle, thus preventing drain on resources or bandwidth. Also, you can configure the backup scheduller to archive as frequently as you wish.

Network drives and external drives cannot be backup up using Carbonite.

In our tests it took thirty seven mins to save 2,000 megabytes of information via a normal 8mbps DSL line while sending and receiving other information on the internet.

Carbonite gives a continuous backup facility which means that information is backed up as they are amended. Therefore you do not need to depend on scheduling archiving and ensuring your computer is powered on when the scheduled time arrives. Nevertheless, if scheduling is what you wish, the PC client does have that option as well.

A process indicator and status notifications are available. You can also add files and folders to the archive schedule by right-clicking.

The Carbonite client provides a 'virtual drive letter' where you can see which files have been backed up and which are pending archive. The manager also adds colored dots on files to show if they are backed up, awaiting archive or not included in the backup set.

The PC edition lets unlimited 'file versioning' for 3 months. There are in addition no restrictions on the size of individual files or the amount of information that you can archive. However, it is important to remember that the initial backup time required is a lot more than that needed once you are up and running and your initial backup is finished.

Restore Features

Information recovery can be initiated from either the software or the web portal and can be recovered to - by default - their original location, another location on the client they were originally backup up on or to the web portal. On the PC client, restores can also be started by right-clicking a file or folder. In addition there is a search option so you can locate files to restore that match a specific filename or filename pattern.

Control and Analysis

The web site Offers central administration for all devices being archived. The speed and bandwidth usage can be controlled between high and low.
Reports can be generated to verify what is archived.

Interface

To use Carbonite you have to use the Carbonite Client Software on each device that will be backed up. But, once setup, all archiving can be administrated from a central admin portal.

Loads of computers can be administered from a single account, but, multi-account control isn't supported. Once the program is installed, it lets access to a virtual drive letter which is used to monitor the status of archived files and to restore folders. The system tray icon starts off yellow - this shows that the initial backup is running. When the initial backup is finished, the tray icon turns green.

The client program is straightforward and great to use. The web portal is similarly uncluttered. The utility is intended to be set-and-forget so the options are not cluttered with lots of options but instead are set up to allow you to choose what and when you want to backup and then leave the program to get on with it.

Device Support

There is support for PC and MAC. There is an iPhone, iTouch, iPad and Blackberry apps however these only allow you to observe archived folders, not actually archive your device. You can attach files from the backup set in emails.
There is no limit to the amount of computers that or amount of devices - MAC or PC - that can be backed up.

Limitations

Network letters and external drives cannot be archived
Carbonite is a client backup program, so it can not backup server databases such as SQL server, Exchange server directly. However, if these programs are backed up using existing backup technology and the resulting file is then stored on an accessible drive, Carbonite can then upload the backup file.
Carbonite is not a disaster recovery tool.No proxy server support.

File Sharing and Collaboration

Files and folders can be shared privately via the web portal and different access rights can be configured on specific files and folders.
No public file sharing or collaboration features.

Synchronization

Multiple machines can be synchronized with each other and with the central web site.

Web 2.0 Integration

None currently.

Customer Support

Phone support is available for an additional cost of just under 20 dollars a year. The following support options are available and free:
Live Chat: https://www.carbonite.com/chat
Email Support: customersupport@carbonite.com
Email web form: http://carbonite.custhelp.com/app/ask
Online Documentation, FAQs and knowledgebase
Blog: http://www.carbonite.com/blog
Free Trial: There is a free 15 day trial available.

Ease Of Use

Carbonite is very simple to install and run, just download the client software and run it. There is audio help that teaches the entire process and you will start backing up your data in minutes. The 15 day - no credit card required - free trial means {there is no risk in trying Carbonite out. Once setup all that is required is right-click on a file or folder to add it to your archive.

Cost

Initial setup Cost - Free 15 day trial
Monthly charge - Not applicable
Yearly Charge - $54.99
Initial allowed storage amount - unlimited
Cost of additional storage - no charge
Cost of additional devices / PCs / users - Unlimited device but one account per user
Referral Program - 3 months free subscription for each referral that signs up after their free trial
E-billing facility - yes

There are no corporate service plans available, but, there is a professional edition of Carbonite available at http://www.carbonitepro.com which is designed for Business use.

Hidden cost: Telephone support costs $19.99 per year.

Conclusion

Carbonite offers a uncluttered secure method to backup your files from either PCs or MACs. The unlimited storage for a fixed fee allows for easy money management and takes away the need to constantly how much information you are archiving. The Carbonite Online Backup service is very secure and the support is strong. If you need a reliable backup solution then this is an excellent choice. .

Review of LiveDrive Online Backup, Storage and Sync

Overview and History

Livedrive is financed by Andrew Michael. Andrew started Fasthosts Internet Limited, the UK's main and most profitable Internet provider which he sold in 2006 for in excess of $120m. Andrew commented: "Online storage is the future. Lots of companies are trying to do it today but the products are crap and not a replacement for traditional storage methods. Livedrive has been over two years in the making and will be the standard by which all competing products are judged".

Livedrive has one of two versions: LiveDrive Backup and LiveDrive Briefcase (Pro). The Backup version can backup of unlimited internet enabled devices and an unlimited quantity of files. The Briefcase or Pro edition retains all the functions of the Backup version however also gives sharing and synchronization of files from multiple online devices.

Feature Set

Security

LiveDrive uses 128bit SSL encryption to their web site along with password protection for your account. Information transfer to and from their servers is protected by 256bit AES encoding - the most secure protection we have seen for information transfers. Once at their data centers, your data is managed with 256 AES encryption (that's very good!) and you can use your own private key if you wish.
As for the servers, your data is stored on high grade servers in diverse data centers. These were originally only in the United Kingdom, however, with expanding their service to other countries, they have also expended their web of data centers which makes your data more secure.

Backup Features

A very impressive features of LiveDrive Backup is that it is actually unlimited. We have been using LiveDrive for a couple of years now and have backed up many terabytes of data. Adding files to the backup schedule is as simple as right-clicking the file or folder and choosing 'add to backup' on the LiveDrive submenu. Once Included in the backup schedule, files are monitored for amendments and scheduled for archiving as and when they are changed. File versioning is automatically enabled on any files within the archive set and you can have up to 30 versions of an individual file. Open files are also archived frequently and thanks to the 'block level incrementation' technology just the altered sections of files are backup up and these are then added to a new version of the file. This precess vastly reduces the total amount of data that is required uploaded.
Network drives and removable devices like pen drives or other USB products can also be backed up. {and status messages so you know what is being archived and what is still waiting to be backup up.

Restore Features

you can restore up to 30 editions of any file you have backed up by accessing the web site, selecting the file you wish to recover and selecting the version of the file by means of date and time. Once selected simply decide where you want the file restored to and the service begins the recovery process. independent upload and download bandwidth flow controls in the desktop client but no CPU throttling. Socks Proxy servers can be setup which is good when you are in a shared environment and need to get to the internet via a proxy server. You can also set priorities of types of files, for example, if you are slowly uploading your entire movie collection, you should set office docs and other file types ahead of music files so that your more vital information is archived more quickly.

Interface

LiveDrive merges very well with the desktop on PC and MAC. It has a system tray icon to permit fast access to information and option screens. The web portal is very straightforward to navigate and use.
There are many collaboration, file sharing and synchronization options dedicated to the pro version of LiveDrive which is called Briefcase. Devices do need the client software installed to run LiveDrive but this is a no hassle and straightforward process that takes a few minutes to download and setup.

Device Support

Currently LiveDrive supports Microsoft Windows - XP and up; MAC OS 10.5+; iPhone OS 3.0+; Blackberry and any net-enabled product via the web portal.

Limitations

We have found no limitations with LiveDrive.

Collaboration and Synchronization

If you go for the Pro or Briefcase version of LiveDrive then you gain access to a host of collaboration and synchronization tools added to your unlimited online backup solution. When you enable the Briefcase option a virtual drive is created on every PC (or MAC) and this is where you store all your shared files. By default the drive letter it L: but this can be changed in the client software. Any file that is moved or copied to this virtual drive gets copied to the web site and from there to the other devices that have the briefcase feature enabled and are configured for the same LiveDrive Account. File conflicts are configurable and can be set to carry out an automatic option of your choice or to ask what to do with each conflict.
There is also a beta ability called 'LAN synching' which lets devices on the same network (for example you may own a MAC, laptop and iPhone all using the same router) to synch files locally rather than sending all the changes to the net and back. This is a really efficient ability especially if you have loads of files that you have to initially update on one or several machines.
Another very useful ability of the Briefcase is the option to employ a local cached version of all your data from the virtual shared drive. Therefore you have access to the L: drive even when you are not connected to the internet. When you re-connect to the web, the changed files are updated on the web site and amendments are pushed out to the other devices as and when they also go online.

File Sharing

File sharing is available in the web portal and via the desktop software - if using the Briefcase edition. Simply choose the file or folder you need to share, use the share link and then select to share privately or publically.
Public File Sharing allows anyone with the correct website address access the file. If you choose this option, you will be given a unique website address for each file. This can then be sent to anyone you like.
Private File Sharing means only friends you choose have access to the file. If this option is chosen then you must enter the email addresses for each user you want to have access to the file. You can also add a specific message to give more information about the file you are allowing access to. The program then sends an email to each of the addresses previously setup providing general information, your personal message and a unique web address for each file being shared.

Web 2.0 Integration

LiveDrive has a music and video player built into the web portal, along with a useful slideshow ability. LiveDrive is also linked to several online programs including: Facebook, Flickr, SmugMug, Photo Flexer, Zoho, Spibd, PicNik and others. This means you can access and alter the majority of your files directly from the web portal.

Customer Support

There is no telephone or live chat support. However, with the exception of wanting to ask obscure questions there has been no need to talk directly to LiveDrive's support.
There is an email form on the desktop software and on the web site which they reply to very promptly in our experience. The Forum and Blog are brilliant resources to get information or get questions answered from both fellow users as well as from LiveDrive's tech. support team. The FAQ and knowledgebase are handy for generic inquiries as is the demo on the website and there are case studies available on their website. A free version is not available however a 14 day free trial is offered on Backup and Briefcase accounts.

Ease Of Use

LiveDrive is extremely straightforward to use. After you signup, you can download the utility to your internet enabled devices and either start backing up your information or - if you have bought the far more useful Briefcase option - start dumping files to your logical drive. Restores and file sharing are very easy to use and integrating with online services to view files even on the move couldn't be easier.

Cost

Initial setup: Free 14 day trial
Monthly plan costs: Basic - $6.95/mth; Pro - $16.95/mth
Yearly plan costs: Basic - $69.50 / yr; Pro - $169.50 / yr
Initial allowed storage amount: Unlimited
Cost of additional storage: No cost
Cost of additional devices / users: No cost
Referral Program: Yes
E-billing facility: Yes

Conclusion

LiveDrive is an excellent archiving tool, it hides away cleverly and only shows itself when intervention is required. If you choose the Briefcase edition then the load of functions you are getting more than justifies the extra cost. With the huge range of integration with internet devices and online apps. you have a complete online storage and workspace that automatically synchronizes with all your internet devices.
For small businesses this is a great way to connect your team together and keep your projects up- to-date. For individuals it is an excellent way to provide a secure centralized storage location for all your information. There are lower cost Online Storage and Online Backup solutions on the market; but, We there are no better ones. LiveDrive's unique combination of user friendliness and huge array of functions make it a sure winner. And to make it even more appealing, if you choose the yearly plan, you will receive two months free and an extra 10% off FOR LIFE!

Review of Sugarsync Online Backup and Sync Solution

Overview and History

SugarSync is a quite new program. It was launched in the first quarter of 2008 and is built on the SharpCast Universal Sync Platform, the central technology used in SharpCast Photos. Sugarsync is fashioned to sync all of a somebody's files (documents, media, photos, etc.) via many devices. SugarSync also functions as an online backup solution and people can gain access to all of their data from a personalized sub-domain on the SugarSync website using the structure of username.sugarsync.com.

Feature Set

Security

Data protection is reasonable. Data is transferred to and from their servers via 128bit SLL coding which is the industry standard, yet, when files are on their servers the data is encrypted using 128bit AES cryptography which is a little weak by current standards. They do offer private key encryption as an choice, withal, this is also 128bit AES. We would have liked at least 256bit AES or better yet 448bit Blowfish. Your data is stored on servers that are protected in data centers which are watched for security all day and night and are geo-redundant, meaning that your files is managed a lot of times each day to lots of locations all over the world.

Backup Features

The important function of SugarSync - as the monica implies - is Synchronization, nonetheless, it can also be reliably d as a backup tool. This is arranged by downloading and setting up the SugarSync Manager. SugarSync continually monitors selected files for alterations and backs then up in the background even as you work them. The Web Archive characteristic allows you to drag and drop files to make a permanent version#edition#variant#variation#} of a file that will not be backed up with new changes. Network and removable media can also be archived but not via automatic schedulling. The backup progress can be seen at any time and individual files and folders can be allotted normal or high precedence.
SugarSync will automatically store up to 5 versions of files and only the latest  variant adds towards your storage limit.

Restore Features

Files can be restored from the SugarSync Manager or by way of the web portal. Old versions of files can be rebuilt from the web portal There is no limit to the number of restores you can run.

Control and Analysis

There is an outbound speed throttle in the SugarSync Manager but no downstream or CPU throttling. Proxy servers are supported and can be organized in the SugarSync Manager.

Interface

The Business edition has support for managing numerous accounts from a central location yet, the 'individual' accounts do not have this functionality.
All accounts require the SugarSync Manager functioning on PCs or MACs to permit synchronization.

Device Support

SugarSync currently has apps for iPhone, iPod, Blackberry, Windows Mobile. Different mobile devices can reach Sugarsync files via m.sugarsync.com and additional platform specific apps are in development.

Limitations

There is a top single file size limit of 2Gb when transferring between machines, yet, this is dropped when the file is completely uploaded to the web portal. There is no limit#boundary#top end#} to how more can be uploaded, downloaded or synchronized between PCs until the maximum file usage limit for the account is reached. There is currently no support forUnix.

File Sharing and Collaboration

Information can be shared publicly or privately. When allowing public sharing, data can be organised as read-only or as amendable. Folders can be password protected.
Also available is an Online Photo Album, which permits you to share photos publicly or privately and offers an option to [post#setup#send#share#} albums on Facebook, or setup the album as an RSS feed.
When you create an account with SugarSync, you get a public domain in the form of username.sugarsync.com where all your 'private' data can be held. Public files can be held via a special link that is generated when you set the file public. Once you share a folder you can receive a daily summary email of activities in that folder.

Synchronization

This is the main function of SugarSync. It allows you to seamlessly synchronize your files automatically across your PC, Mac and mobile phone - one-time setup and you're ready to go! Files are also automatically synched to the web site so you can find then from any web-enabled device. Since synching is via a central hub (the web portal) devices do not have to be online during synch runs: When an offline device comes online, the software  queries the central data area and synchronizes any changed folders quietly in the background.

Web 2.0 Integration

Apart from the Online Photo Album utility, SugarSync also allows you access music and video directly from the Web portal to any device.
SugarSync allows you to post pictures directly to Facebook.

Customer Support

Telephone support is available at a cost of $99.99 per annum. While this is a nice addition to the support offerings, I don't [see the point in paying#understand why I would pay#} more for the support than I do for the software! Additional interactive support options are: Live chat during business hours, internet ticketing, forum and blog. You can also email support directly.
For self help, there are 'getting started' and user PDFs, FAQs, a knowledgebase and tutorials. There are additionally many testimonials and case studies available.

Ease Of Use

SugarSync is very easy to use: Enroll, download the sync manager to all your devices, determine which folders you wish to backup or synch and that is it.
The software and web site are easy to use and the inline help is really useful.

Cost

SugarSync offers 5 paid packages as shown below:
30Gb - free initial setup - $4.99/mth - $49.99/yr
60Gb - free initial setup - $9.99/mth - $99.99/yr
100Gb - free initial setup - $14.99/mth - $149.99/yr
250Gb - free initial setup - $24.99/mth - $249.99/yr
Business - free initial setup - $29.99/mth - $199.99/yr - initial storage allowance of 100Gb and 3 users - additional storage is available at $29.99 per 100Gb per month and additional users can be added at $9.99 per month per user.

All of the above plans can be utilized to synchronize any number of devices. There is also a free 2 GB account which allows synchronization of 2 devices only.
If you refer someone to the free account then both you and they receive an extra 250mb of storage. If you refer another person to the 30Gb+ account then both parties are awarded an extra 5Gb.
There are no corporate versions apart from the above mentioned business account.

Conclusion

SugarSync offers a undemanding and clear process of synchronizing and/or backing up as many devices. It offers a nicely rounded set of features that give a notion of a painted program that has been carefully evolved.
SugarSync seems to be aimed at the individual rather than businesses but that should not deter small businesses from using this sturdy and tried and tested service.

Review of Box.Net Online Storage Solution

Introduction

Since 2005, founders Aaron Levie and Dylan Smith as well as their fast-growing team have carved out Box.net as one of the most popular and trusty internet services for storing and collaborating documents from anywhere. Today, over 2,000,000 people, small businesses, and large corporations around the world use Box.Net to easily interact with the information and people that matter most. Box.net is situated in Palo Alto, California.

Security Abilities

Box.Net provides 256bit encryption on data during transfer back and forth to it's serviers. Box.Net host their servers at multiple high-grade data centers with current audits, 24 hour monitoring and video surveillance, on-site security patrols, and demanding admittance controls. All power and environmental units are in an N+1 redundant plan to ensure fault tolerance. Many power feeds, UPS devices, and onsite backup generators assure constant functioning and hardy infrastructure. Data is automatically backed up to a physically separate place. This ensures that they always have multiple copies of your files.

Backup Options

Box.net is not a backup solution, notwithstanding, you can reserve upto five separate versions of files if you have the Individual account or upto ten versions if you have the business account.

Restore Options

Apart from the file versioning mentioned above, there is no restore functionality.

Control and Analysis

This is a web-based solution with nothing to setup on the desktop, therefore CPU and bandwidth throttling will not apply.
Logging and Reporting are accessible but exclusively in the Enterprise edition.

Interface

The interface is very simple to use and offers effortless uploading and sharing of files and folders via the web portal. The Business and Enterprise editions provide an Admin Portal and the ability to manage multiple accounts.

Device Support

If your device can get to the net, then you can use Box.Net.

Limitations

• The Lite and Individual editions cannot be used for business.
• The Lite edition has an single file size limit of 25 Megabytes while the rest of the versions have a 1 Gigabyte limit on
• There is nonetheless, no limit on the amount of data you can transfer.
• File retention for erased files is 30 days which is the industry norm.

File Sharing and Collaboration

In all editions, you can invite individuals to cooperate via email and you can import your email contacts via comma-delimited files or directly if you have an Gmail, Yahoo or Hotmail Account.
Uploaded files can be managed in folders or directly in your home page. Once you have a folder you can:

• Request collaborators to share the files in the folder.
• Attach to the folder
• Share the folder
• Embed the folder in a website
• Add comments and tags
• Enter a statement for the folder
• Monitor activity in this folder via email notifications
• Set the access level for the folder:
• Private, Collaboration, or Global
• If sharing globally, you can assign a Vanity name to the folder
• One additional nifty feature is the ability to set an date on the folder share.

Synchronisation

There is no file or folder synchronisation.

Web 2.0 Integration

This is where Box.net shines most brightly! Box.net uses the OpenBox standard which means it is directly compatible with an ever developing group of Web 2.0 applications. Everything from iPhone apps to Online Office apps suchas Zoho and EditGrid to eFaxing via eFax to managing CRM with SalesForce and all your favourite Social Networking sites. You can even include Google Analytics to your account so you can find out how people are accessing your files.

Customer Support

• Telephone support is available but not on a toll-free number and only in business hours.
• Email Support is accessable via a webform on the contact page.
• Non-interactive support is good: There is a good FAQ section; a Knowledgebase; a forum and a blog. A demo and case studies are also provided.
• A free trial is available for the Business edition.
• We found the support staff to be friendly, well informed and willing to help in any way they could.

Ease of Use

Box.Net is really easy. Once you have uploaded or created some content then you truly start to see how easy it is to use. Collaboration is a breeze and it becomes a so simple to work online with others when you have a easy to use, streamlined and clear environment to work in.

Cost

• Box.Net offers 4 packages as shown below:
• Lite: no charge
• Individual - $9.99 / month
• Business - $15 / month
• Enterprise - Price on application
• Initial setup on all packages is free
• There are no options for added storage.
• There are no limits to the amount of devices that can be used with the service

Initial allowed storage space

• Lite: 1Gb
• Individual: 5Gb
• Business: 10Gb / person
• Enterprise: infinite

Conclusion

If you are looking for an online backup solution then this is NOT the product for you. If you are hunting for a really logical,effortless and simple to manage web-based collaboration tool then look no further. The functionality to implement email notifications when something changes in one of your project folders is a particularly useful touch. Box.Net is the best online collaboration tool we have reviewed so far.

For a more in-depth review click here.
To compare Box.Net to other leading Online Storage Providers click here

Review of MozyPro Online Backup Solution

Overview and History

MozyPro Backup is the property of the Decho Corporation which is a totally owned subsidiary of the EMC2 Corporation, a fortune 500 company. Decho was founded in 2005. They currently own head-quarters in Seattle, Washington with other offices in Pleasant Grove, Utah; London, England; Shanghai, China; Montreal, Canada; and Bangalore, India.
Mozy currently has over one million customers and over 50,000 businesses, preserving a total in excess  of 25 petabytes of files - that's twenty-five thousand terabytes or 25 million gigabytes!

Security Abilities

MozyPro is a totally secure online backup  package. All traffic to and from the Mozy servers is encrypted with 128bit SSL encryption which is the industry standard. Once on the servers your data is encrypted with either 448bit Blowfish technology or your own 256bit AES private key encryption. This is the best security commercially available today. As for actual security, the data centers deploy 24 hour on-site monitoring and security, state-of- the-art fire detection and suppression power distribution and seismic safeguards that can survive a 7.5 magnitude quake.

Backup Features

Mozy provides block level incremental online backups and can be organized to backup either on a set schedule or invisibly in the background. In our tests, it took less than thirty minutes to backup two gigabytes of data on a home 8mbps DSL line uploading and downloading other data. Also, because of the block level nature of Mozy's backup application, open or locked files can be backed up easily.
A progress indicator is accessible if you click on the icon in the system tray. When first setup Mozy Online Backup includes all the current user's profile files including documents, music, videos, etc. However, it is a easy task to add or remove folders and files to/from the backup job. The Home editions do not accept backup of network drives however, the Pro and Enterprise editions do. None of the  packages let backup of removable media.
The business editions - MozyPro and MozyEnterprise - permit online backup solutions for Exchange server, SQL server and LDAP directories such as Active Directory and Lotus Notes.

Restore Abilities

File restore is by request through the web portal, the desktop app or by right-clicking in a folder and selecting restore. When a restore is requested, the system packages all the files requested into a special file and notifies you by email when the restore is ready for restoring. File versioning is active on all backed up media, so you can choose to restore an older variation of any file you have backed up. Files can be restored to their initial location or to any location of your choosing.

Control and Analysis

Mozy Online Backup accommodates your needs by allowing you to control how much CPU and bandwidth are obtainable to the program. These can be easily oriented from the desktop application. Proxy servers are also supported and Mozy can be setup to use these via the desktop application.
All activity that Mozy carries out is logged and can be examined either from the desktop application or via the web portal.

Interface

MozyPro provides a great deal of information and allows centralized configuration and logging which is ideal when managing backups on PCs and laptops that may not even be in the same location. Multiple accounts can be setup as well as multiple devices. A more restricted interface is provided with MozyHome.

Device Support

Currently Mozy Online Backup only supports backup of MAC and PC clients. In addition MozyPro backs up MAC And PC servers.

Limitations:

• MozyHome cannot be utilized commercially.
• The basic free account is limited to 2Gb of storage although this can be increased by allowing other people to become users. For every further signup you get an additional 250Mb of virtual space.
• There are no limits set on the size or type of individual files. 
• There are also no limits on the total amount of data backed up or restored.
• Mozy free allows backup of 2 devices under 1 user account; MozyHome allows upto 5 devices but each additional device will cost $4.95 per month per device.
• Both MozyPro and MozyEnterprise allow infinite devices and users but there is a cost for each device.
• File retention - the amount of time a file remains available for restore after it has been 'deleted' - is 30 days for all account types.

File Sharing and Collaboration

Mozy is not a file sharing or collaboration tool. It is a backup product. That being said, it does support sign-in, sign-out and multiple levels of security to an individual file level.

Synchronization

You can synchronize multiple devices with the central web portal.

Web 2.0 Integration

Mozy does not provide FaceBook or similar integration.

Customer Support

Mozy's customer support is commonsense: They supply great user guides, full FAQs and a knowledgebase. There is also a blog and plenty of testimonials and case studies available. Email support is available to all types of accounts, but, telephone support is only available to MozyPro and MozyEnterprise users and live chat is not usable to free users.

Usability

MozyHome is very effortless to use. You can go from signup to backup in less than 5 minutes and it really is a 'set it and forget it' procedure. MozyPro has a slightly harder learning curve but this is understandable since it provides much more features.

Closing comments

If you are trying to find a sure-fire, set-it-and-forget-it backup provider that does not cost too much, will grow or shrink to meet your situation and is a snap to change then Mozy Online Backup is your best solution. If you are trying to backup many gigabytes of files that changes on a frequent basis then there are different and cheaper solutions available.

Still not sure about Mozy? Check out this comparison table.