Product Overview of Livedrive
Livedrive is a comprehensive cloud storage and backup solution designed to cater to both personal and business users. Here’s a detailed look at what the product does and its key features:
Core Functionality
Livedrive primarily serves two main purposes: cloud backup and cloud storage.
- Cloud Backup: Livedrive allows users to back up an unlimited amount of data from their computers, although this does not include the operating system and settings. This means that in the event of a complete system failure, users would need to reinstall the OS before restoring their files from Livedrive.
- Cloud Storage: The service includes a feature called Briefcase, which functions similarly to Dropbox. Briefcase enables users to store, sync, and access files across multiple devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones. Files stored in Briefcase are automatically synced online and can be accessed via desktop apps, mobile apps, or the web client.
Key Features
- Unlimited Backup: Personal users can back up an unlimited amount of data from one or multiple computers, depending on the chosen pricing tier.
- Briefcase Storage: Briefcase offers limited storage space, with options ranging from 2TB for Briefcase-only plans to 5TB for combined backup and Briefcase plans. This storage is used for syncing files across devices.
- File Versioning: Livedrive supports file versioning, allowing users to restore files from up to 30 different versions. This is particularly useful for tracking changes and recovering accidentally updated or deleted files.
- Ease of Use: Setting up and using Livedrive is straightforward. Users have granular control over which files and folders to back up, and the interface is user-friendly for both backup and restore operations.
- Security: Livedrive emphasizes security with features such as AES-128 encryption for Briefcase files, automatic logout, and the option to prompt for a password each time the software is run. Files are stored in secure UK data centers protected by 24/7 physical security and the latest intrusion prevention technology. Livedrive is also SOC2 self-certified and SOX compliant.
- Sharing and Collaboration: Users can securely share files and folders with colleagues, clients, or partners. Team folders allow for private collaboration, and files can be shared without the need for email attachments.
- Advanced Settings: Livedrive offers advanced settings such as LAN transfers for syncing files across local area networks, proxy settings for remote connections, and an integrity check tool to ensure files are backed up correctly.
Pricing and Plans
Livedrive offers various pricing tiers to suit different needs:
- Personal Plans: Start at $8.99 per month for unlimited backup from one computer. Higher tiers include additional devices and Briefcase storage, with the Pro Suite offering unlimited backup across five devices and 5TB of Briefcase storage for $25 per month.
- Business Plans: Start at $50 per month for three users and 2TB of cloud storage. These plans are designed for team collaboration and include additional security and management features.
Additional Tools and Apps
Livedrive provides desktop software for Windows and Mac, as well as mobile apps for Apple, Android, and Windows devices. This ensures seamless access and management of backed-up and stored files across all major platforms.
In summary, Livedrive is a versatile cloud storage and backup solution that offers robust features for both personal and business use, emphasizing ease of use, security, and comprehensive file management.