LaCie CloudBox

LaCie CloudBox Network Hard Drive 100GB

The minimum "best practice" backup arrangement for your vital data is to maintain three copies of the data: the original, a local backup, and a second backup offsite. With LaCie's CloudBox NAS device, you simply back up to the ethernet-connected unit, which then automatically backs up to LaCie's own online backup service. But easy as it is, CloudBox is also expensive, capacity-challenged, and slower than average. Configuring the CloudBox is a breeze: Browse to the unit's attractive Web management console, enter the provided code for one year's online backup, and enter the validation code sent to you via confirmation email. LaCie includes a network navigator to help you find the device, though savvy users can check the router's DHCP table. You also get Genie's TimeLine app for handling the actual backups of your PC (CloudBox supports TimeMachine for Mac users). Alternatively, you can use your own software, or simply drag and drop files and folders; CloudBox will appear on your network just as any other network drive would. Beyond the purchase price of $199 for a 100GB hard drive plus one year of the backup service, you face a $129 yearly fee for backing up online after the included first year of service ends.