Storing data is not a sexy subject. Sure, we all need to store, manage and protect our computer data, but we don’t need to talk a lot about it. Buy a hard drive or server and store your stuff. Right? Simple enough in concept, however the truth is it has never been an easy process. The new HP StorageWorks X310 Data Vault aims to do just that: Make data storage, backup, and sharing effortless.
I received a temporary review unit from HP last month and thought I would have my work cut out for me in setting it up and configuring it. Frankly, I was blown away with how easy it really was. I turned on the unit, followed a few simple steps and my laptop and desktop could both connect to the X310. As most readers know, HP is also a sponsor of this site.
Designed for SMBs with limited IT staff, the new X310 simplifies data backup. It is ideal for any small or midsize business that has more than one machine and wants to save time and money on a new or additional backup system.
What I liked:
- The Data Vault works incredibly well with the Windows Home Server operating system. The user-friendly interface to configure the Windows Home Server and link machines to it is a no-brainer.
- You can automate a daily backup for up to 10 PC clients in addition to Macs, on one Data Vault device and internally expand its total storage to 7 terabytes (that’s roughly 1,000 Gigabytes). To be clearer, once your device comes in range of the wireless server it can automatically start backing up files.
- Simply plug your USB hard drive or flash drive directly into any USB port on the HP Data Vault and you can move files directly on or off the device.
What I didn’t like:
This is not HP’s fault, but I couldn’t get it to work with my wireless router and thus get access to the Data Vault from remote locations anywhere on the internet. Most companies won’t have this problem if their wireless configuration is newer than 4 years old. In my mind, remote access is hugely helpful and a money saver if you want an alternative to the ubiquitous web-based services at X dollars a year.
As a quick aside, once you do have this working, you can share local and remote files through a custom URL that is accessible from any web browser. What a great way to improve collaboration for you and your staff.
Hard drives and other digital storage media are cheap. You can’t afford not to have a backup in place and HP makes it easier than ever with their new X310 Data Vault. The install and configuration for PCs is exceptional and the price point affordable if you have more than one machine. It is worth a serious look.
Learn more about the HP StorageWorks X310 Data Vault.
Editor’s Note: HP is a sponsor of Small Business Trends.
Thanks for the review, going to get myself one of those.
Me, too Alex. I was impressed with how easy it was to setup. I’d like to get the internet access/remote access working, but need a new router first. It is a slick device. HP hit a homerun with this one.
Martin Lindeskog
TJ: Could you compare this kind of data vault with having data in the “cloud”?
Any business world document storage is very essential. So for make your business path smoothly you need to do take your data back up in proper way. This HP data vault is very good and easily hand able. Thanks McCue for providing us a lot of information of “HP StorageWorks X310 Data Vault”.
Sounds ideal for small business data storage and management.