Technical Information

Multi-platform

The software clients are truly multi-platform and is currently supported on the following systems;

• Microsoft Windows 2000\XP\Vista
• Microsoft Windows Server 2003\Server 2008
• Mac
• Linux (X-Windows and command-line support)

Security

All data is encrypted using an encryption key which is specified and only known to the user. The encryption key is used to encrypt all of the backup data before it is sent to the Wi-Manx servers. A secure SSL tunnel is made to the backup server through which the data is transferred to the server.

The encryption algorithm used to encrypt files is called AES. This military grade standard is one of the most secure in the industry. Like all encryption – it is the user’s responsibility to keep the pass-phrase secure.

Scheduling

Both the Lite and Plus software clients are capable of scheduling backups to run at a given time. Lite features a basic scheduling system whilst the Plus package allows a variety of scheduling options. Both clients support pre and post backup commands allowing you to run other jobs before, or after the backup has completed.

Continuous Data Protection (CDP)

CDP technology captures every version of the data a file has saved to your hard drive. The CDP function backs up your important data continuously throughout the day, even if you haven’t invoked the backup function manually. The CDP feature provides a highly dependable means of real-time, continuous data protection for servers, desktops and laptops effortlessly and transparently, withour user intervention.

Data Integrity

CRC integrity checks are performed on the data to make sure no corruption has occured during the transfer.

Compression

The software utilises a compression system similar to the ZIP format. When backing up standard office-type documents (e.g. word processing, spreadsheets) the software can achieve very high compression ratios. This compression improves backup speed and also reduces the disk space used on the backup server.

Whilst certain types of document achieve good compression ratios, other files such as JPG images and power point presentations are natively compressed. These types of file tend not to be compressed much during the backup process.

In-File Delta \ Incremental Backup

The software client has an intelligent system known as ‘in-File Delta’. This system is able to detect the smallest change in a file and only backup the changed portion of the file. This makes backups far more efficient, rather than copying the whole file again, only the portion that has changed is backed up.

Availability

All backup data is held encrypted on state-of-the-art NAS devices in RAID5 configurations. Data is also mirrored on gigabit links between our data-centres to ensure availability. This multi-site approach, coupled with our highly resilient network means your data will always be readily available and secure.

For business

Compliance

Many businesses are required to have a backup strategy that may form part of a larger business continuity plan (BCP), this is a requirement for some types of business. The Wi-Manx online backup service can form part of your business continuity plan, allowing you comply and at a far lower cost than some competing solutions.

Firewall friendly

The client uses the industry standard SSL\TLS protocol (TCP port 443) meaning the client works well in business environments that feature a firewall policy. A single outbound rule is necessary allowing the client access to our backup servers.

Server, mailbox and folder level Exchange backups

The optional server module enables you to backup your Exchange server. The granularity of the backups enable you to backup specific servers, mailboxes and even folders within a mailbox. The same principal applies to restores, if you need to restore a specific folder or message, this can be accomplished with ease.

Granular reporting

The software has detailed logging functionality and sends out e-mail reports following a backup, whether the job completed, was missed or failed.

Low administrative burden

The Wi-Manx backup solution has a very low administrative overhead, backups are scheduled and reporting is automated. Your staff no longer have to swap tapes, store tapes off site or have to worry about backup hardware. The solution is designed to be configured and left to run in the background. As with most backup plans, periodic test ‘restores’ and data validation is recommended.

Compliment your existing backup strategy

The Wi-Manx backup solution can be used in isolation or it can be used to compliment an existing backup solution. If your business already has an established backup policy, using tape drives or NAS devices, the online backup solution can be used to compliment this system.