Online Backup Systems

Andy Vatistas
January 11, 2011

What are online backup systems?

• A service providing online data storage
• Can be a small amout of storage (1-2 GB) free or a large amount (25-150 GB) at a cost
• Many different services available throughout the internet including full-featured web hosts, online social networks, and email clients
• Used to back up files for personal/business purposes

Features

• Continuous Backup
• Backup of Multiple Machines
• Online Access to Files

Advantages

• Lower cost
• No extra equipment or storage
• Unlimitd data storage in many cases
• Automatic backup
• Easier access to files

Disadvantages

• Must have network/internet access
• Could be slow
• No guarantee of availability (esp. if password is lost)
• No guarantee of privacy
• No special features (file sharing, synch, etc)

Types of Online Backup Systems

• SOS - $10/month, 50 GB on 5 computers
• Norton- $50 for 25 GB on 5 computers
• IDrive - $5/month for 150 GB
• Mozy – $55/year up to 5 computers
• Carbonite - $55/year unlimited storage one computer