Remote Backup Systems, Inc. (RBS) was founded in 1987, making it the oldest remote backup company in the world. Founder and CEO Rob Cosgrove coined the term ‘remote backup’ and wrote the first commercially distributed remote backup software for microcomputers. Headquartered in Memphis, TN, with an international office and development center in India, RBS tells us theirs is the most widely distributed subscription-based online backup software.

Remote backup servers offers businesses—small to enterprise—an off-site, secure depository that houses a copy of their data. Because files are stored at another location, a complete restore can be achieved in the event of fire, environmental damage, or evacuation.

With a strong history as innovators and a proven track record in more than 63 countries, RBS’ RBackup software is a solid foundation for managed service providers (MSPs) looking to offer their own branded, customized remote backup services.

Hands On
RBackup comes as a Client and Server module. Both the Server and the Client software are automated and keep track of the date, time, and type of the next backup. They are designed to be transparent on the system without interfering with other programs. Both can run as system services.

Because RBackup can be set to automatically backup files, there is no chance that an operator will forget to run a backup program. Auto backup can be set for nighttime, leaving no disruptive computer downtime during business hours.

When the Client software is scheduled to run a backup, it determines which files are scheduled for backup and how. RBackup also constantly reevaluates a computer system, adding new files to the backup as needed. Files are compressed into archives that may be as little as five to 15 percent of the original size, then they are encrypted.

MSPs can assure their customers that RBackup is secure. Users choose from eight of the leading cryptographic methods. It can be set so not even the MSP can read the files.

RBackup activates the client’s modem or Internet connection, then sends the backup to the host server.

The pre-compression data size and backup time needed are logged. This data can be used to bill customers if you are offering a commercial backup service. Reporting includes the option of exporting data in comma-delimited files for accounting and other software.

If a client wants to restore lost or a previous version of data, a basic user interface guides them. The system allows clients to restore to prior versions, rather than just the latest backup.

Options
Available in three versions—Basic Package, Starter Pack, and Pro Pack—based on number of clients, RBackup software comes with a one-year maintenance subscription and built-in email notification. The Starter Pack and Pro Pack also include a business kit and presentation for demonstrating the product to customers. In addition, Prop Packs include an online installer plugin, registration wizard plugin, mirror server, free installation, and free basic customization.

Connectivity
For client counts of ten or less, the software requires Microsoft Windows 2000 or XP Pro, a Pentium IV class CPU, 512 MB RAM, 40 GB hard drive, and an Internet connection.

Server setup for 50-250 clients requires Microsoft Windows XP Pro, 2000 Server, or 2003; Pentium IV or greater; 1-2 GB RAM; 500 GB+ hard drive; CD/DVD burners; and an always-on Internet connection.

For users with more than 250 clients and a need for one or more TB of storage space RBS recommends a dual processor 3GHz CPU, 4+ GB RAM, Windows Server 2003, 2 x 1TB RAID-5 Arrays with hot spare, Compaq 642 controller and separate external boxes with fast backplans, and RAID 0+1 for the operating system on small internal drives.

For additional speed or capacity, RAID drives, SAN or NAS devices, tape drives, and mirrored servers can be added to the network. Mirror servers mirror your RBS Server to a remote location for backup and archiving.

A New Business Model
Offering a remote backup solution to businesses of all sizes is a great new avenue to pursue. RBackup software is fully brandable and customizable. With a knowledgeable IT staff, a secure facility, a software solution such as RBackup, and RBS’ marketing presentation, the remote backup service model is a viable opportunity.  BTE