Joint Board

There are many services today that allow you to upload your files and share them anywhere. Ranging from backing up your PC with a download-able application, or simple online user interface, all these sites can do you some good. All of these sites offer free storage of at least 1GB, but there are usually paid options for better features.

1. Mozy - An online backup system for your PC that safely and automatically backs up your files online. For the free version, it goes up to 2GB, but you can pay $4.95/mo to get unlimited storage. Mozy isn’t the best way to store your files online to share with your friends, or to post around the internet, but if you want online backups, then you want Mozy.
2. Box.net - A friendly looking storage system that is more geared towards sharing. It’s mainly a paid service, but you can try them out with 1GB space for free. Upon paying $7.95/mo you get 5GB of space. Box.net has some cool features, like setting up sub accounts for other people to view certain files, backups of certain files, or being very easy to share. Very nice interface as well.
3. OmniDrive - Store your files online and access them from anywhere at desktop-storage-speeds. The free version offers 1GB storage and 5GB bandwidth, but the paid options come out to be much cheaper than the competition. First paid plan is $40/yr for 10GB storage and 20GB bandwidth.The things I liked most about OmniDrive were its cross platform compatibility, and API possibilities. Not only do they have an application for both OSX and Windows, but they have a web version for Linux users or other users who feel like it. The API program also allows extensions and further developments.
4. eSnips - A file uploading and sharing community where you can share, drive traffic to your site and join like minded communities. You start off with a nice 5GB storage for free.The thing that bothers me about eSnips is the fact that they have less than 1000 users, and less than 4000 hosted files. What if they were to blow up and become huge? Could they survive the first part of that? This site only appeals to those interested in a community situation as well.
5. Xdrive - This site had one of the better first impressions, on a design based judgment. You can conveniently upload, share, backup and access from anywhere your files with Xdrive. The free plan comes with 5GB of storage space. If you want to upgrade, it’s $9.95/mo for 50GB. Xdrive has one of the better looking interfaces, so it’s safe to say that AOL (parent company) knows how to hire a designer. As far as features, its very similar, but what sets it apart is its Pro Package, where you get 50GB for $99.50/yr or $9.95/mo.

There is not a lot of diversity in this field, but here are some conclusions.

• Online Backups: Definitely go with Mozy.
• Free File Storage/Share: Try Box.net first.
• Upgraded: Go with Xdrive for best value.