Data storage specialist CMS has announced the local availability of the new PowerBAK server for data protection from StorageTek. CMS, a subsidiary of JSE-listed MGX, is the sole distributor of StorageTek products in South Africa.
"The PowerBAK server brings StorageTek`s data centre-class storage capabilities to remote network and PC users," says Pieter Engelbrecht, sales support manager of CMS.
PowerBAK server is the world`s first turnkey solution for PC backup and full-system recovery via the Internet and dial-up. The PowerBAK server also provides a Y2K readiness level for companies that have not addressed Y2K computer issues at the mobile user level.
"Due to the high percentage of corporate data located on PCs, mobile users and telecommuters face the common threats of damage, theft and loss of their computers," says Engelbrecht. "The ability to protect and recover data remotely is crucial. The PowerBAK server streamlines the process of automatically safeguarding files and PCs by allowing thousands of corporate users to schedule routine backups of valuable data through modem and Internet access.
"The PowerBAK server provides Internet-enabled storage with data centre-class reliability to a user market where remote backup solutions are needed most," adds Engelbrecht.
Engelbrecht says PowerBAK also offers a Y2K solution for IT managers who have focused on Y2K server issues and now find time is running out to test and fix the bug at the PC and mobile-user level. It allows companies to retain pre-Y2K data that can be recovered in its original form after the turn of the millennium. If a company`s data is damaged or destroyed due to Y2K problems, all desktop and mobile data can be restored through the PowerBAK server.
Industry research indicates that less than 4% of users with the capability to back up actually do so on a routine basis due to inconvenience and unreliability. Additionally, companies often cannot provide telecommuters or mobile users with access to off-site storage facilities or on-site tape storage that other employees working in a company office can use. PowerBAK server eliminates these challenges to traditional data backup.
Mobile users and telecommuters are able to use their company`s existing dial-up infrastructure to access the PowerBAK server through their modem and Internet connections for complete data protection.
"Unlike other marketed software packages that only back up files deemed important, the PowerBAK server creates a mirror image of the entire PC hard drive, operating system, applications, set-up files and user data," says Engelbrecht. "After the first backup, the PowerBAK server completes a backup of only those files that are new or have changed. This ensures that daily backups are more efficient, taking just minutes a day. The software can also be configured to launch applications such as a virus checker automatically, before backing up or restoring files.
"The mobile and remote work force continues to expand at a rapid pace, and corporations are looking for backup systems tailored specifically for mobile use," notes Engelbrecht. "StorageTek is filling a strategic gap in its own portfolio and in the telecommunications industry by providing Internet-enabled storage."
PowerBAK is suitable for Internet service providers (ISPs) wishing to offer their clients added value, says Engelbrecht. Designed for the smaller firm or independent user (worker, self-employed, contractor, consultant) with little or no IT staff, the utility offers complete backup and restore services, without the user having to buy and maintain any hardware or software, or train employees.
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