Backblaze 2.0 removes limits, upgrades performance
updated 01:10 pm EDT, Wed October 26, 2011
Should be less taxing on local systems
Online backup firm Backblaze has launched a significant upgrade to its service and client software, collectively labeled v2.0. One of the chief differences is the removal of several upload restrictions. Files can now be of any size, or of any type, including even system or ISO files. Similarly, users can now backup VMware and virtual machines.
Some smaller changes include a higher 1TB cap on restoring to external drives -- up from 500GB -- and options like customizing the temp data folder, or disabling backup when a computer is running on battery power. Performance is another major focus of the upgrade, as Backblaze now consumes less RAM, detects external drives faster, and restores up to twice as quick when browsing for recently backed up files. SSL hardware acceleration is supported for systems with Intel AES-NI chips; alternatively, a new Silent mode consumes no memory or CPU power when Backblaze is set to "backup on click."
Backblaze clients are available for both Mac and Windows systems. Macs must be running OS X 10.5 or later, while Windows PCs must have at least Windows XP. Pricing is normally set at $5 a month, but drops to $3.96 a month if a person pays for two years.
