LaCie 5big Backup Server for SMBs

LaCie announced a customized, resource-efficient, backup server for small office environments – the LaCie 5big Backup Server.

Housed in the LaCie 5big enclosure, the new backup appliance allows small companies to benefit from an enterprise-grade centralized backup solution that fits into any office environment – without requiring deployment efforts or specialized IT skills.

Leveraging the high performance of the 64-bit Intel Atom processor and the usability of Microsoft’s Windows Home Server software, the LaCie 5ig Backup Server provides seamless setup and automatic backup for small businesses. It can support configurations of up to 10 PC and 25 Mac workstations simultaneously. The server includes five hot-swappable hard disks with capacities up to 10TB – and is scalable with its USB and eSATA connections.

Tailored for centralized backup and data protection, the LaCie 5big Backup Server features system block level backup deduplication, as well as file level restore capabilities. Whether users experience unexpected file loss or require an entire system restore, the LaCie 5big Backup Server ensures all data can be recovered. For businesses that experience a crashed workstation, the server can initiate a bare metal restore, enabling a boot and complete system and data recovery.

"For small businesses, backing up data is vital. Until now, storage solutions that efficiently protect and manage heterogeneous environments have been cumbersome, cost-prohibitive and difficult to configure", said Erwan Girard, LaCie Solutions Business Unit Manager. "LaCie has partnered with industry-leading companies to provide a full-featured professional backup server that will automatically configure and back up PCs and Mac computers for a fraction of the cost."

"LaCie is a leading storage manufacturer that believes simple and intuitive usability is not just for the home, but also for small businesses," said Marco Di Giacomo, Microsoft Director of Product Management, Solutions Marketing. "The combination of LaCie’s 5big Backup Server and Microsoft’s robust Windows Home Server platform allows users to take mission-critical technology and use it for their small business to store, protect and access important data without the need for large IT budgets or specialized environments."

Unlike many small business servers, LaCie’s 5big Backup Server is fully compatible with Mac systems and environments through its support for AFP, Spotlight, and the AppleTalk stack for legacy applications. Additionally, it is compatible with Time Machine. Administrators will appreciate having a centralized backup appliance for cross-platform management for access rights and automatic backup and restore.

LaCie’s 5big Backup Server uses the Intel Atom processor D410, a small, power-efficient chip that has been combined with the Intel 82801IR I/O Controller to deliver the processing performance and input/output connectivity required to meet the needs of small businesses.

"Small businesses need highly efficient professional backup solutions that are quieter and easier to use," said David Tuhy, general manager, Intel Storage Group. "LaCie’s 5big Backup Server with the energy-efficient performance of the Intel Atom processor delivers advanced storage features in a compact high-capacity appliance that can be quickly deployed."

For small businesses, the 5big Backup Server is a powerful, easy to manage backup solution. In addition, it has a minimal environmental impact through its recyclable aluminum casing, and power optimization: advanced power management, power-efficient processor and Level V power supply for efficiency. Additionally, the LaCie 5big Backup Server houses an ultra-quiet Noctua fan, allowing businesses to place the product wherever they choose – including a desktop.

Main specs

• Centralized file and bare metal backup for up to 10 PCs and 25 Macs
• Powered by the 64-bit Intel Atom processor D410
• Powered by Microsoft Windows Home Server software
• Online file and full system restore
• Time Machine compatible
• Data protection against drive failure

Availability and price
The 5big Backup Server is available in a number of capacities and includes a three-year warranty. For users who require real-time hardware replacement, they can purchase LaCie’s Advance Care Option. The server is available through the LaCie Store Online, LaCie Storage Partner and LaCie Reseller+, starting at the suggested retail price of $1,199.99.