ITEXPO Speaker: Offsite Data Protection Key for Enterprises

By Beecher Tuttle, TMCnet Web Editor

In this day and age, the majority of enterprises and SMBs store their crucial business information on the hard drives of their computers. Unfortunately, hardware failure and human error often lead to severe data loss that can significantly harm an organization. To properly secure these records, most companies employ a data backup and recovery strategy.

While individuals can simply backup their work with zip discs or tape systems, the task is much more complex for large businesses that need to protect and store an unimaginable amount of data. To make this process less time consuming and more secure, companies have begun partnering with offsite data storage providers that centrally manage and backup their critical documents and other pieces of information.

In an attempt to develop a better understanding of this space, TMC CEO Rich Tehrani (News - Alert) recently conducted an interview with Steven Ferman, President of eTegrity Systems International, an online data backup and recovery provider.

During the interview, Ferman also conveyed his thoughts on the future of wireless networking, mobile video chat and unified communications. Furthermore, he unveiled a few details about his upcoming presentation at ITEXPO West 2010, which kicks off on October 4 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

The complete interview can be found below. 

What is the most significant trend in communications today? Why?

Unified communications -- more and more people are consolidating their home and cell lines into one device over the Internet.

How is your company leveraging the growth of social media to enhance your own business?

We currently use Twitter, Linkedin as well as Facebook (News - Alert). We plan to tweet a lot at ITEXPO West 2010 as well.

What are your thoughts on the viability of mobile video chat or conferencing?

I think it is a technology that is here to stay but just not made for the masses yet. The technology will take us one step closer to a truly virtual world.

Which wireless operating system (Android (News - Alert), iOS4, Microsoft, etc.) will see the greatest success over the next three years?  Why?

Android. The open OS sets the stage for the most creativity and improvement over time. You will see the widest adoption of smart phones with this OS from the user community and the manufacturers.

Some have suggested wireless networking will soon replace wired networks in the enterprise.  Do you agree? Why or why not?

I disagree, as the need for speed is ever increasing and wireless limitations do not meet the demand for bandwidth.  I feel wired will be the way to go for a long time considering that most structures are not conducive to wireless because of metal studs, construction materials, elevator shielding and the like.

What impact has the growth of cloud-based services had on your business?

Tremendous, as we are 100% cloud-based.

If you had the opportunity to decide the Net neutrality (News - Alert) debate, how would you rule?

I am for Net Neutrality.

You are exhibiting at ITEXPO West 2010.  What is the most exciting thing attendees will see at your booth?

Scalable, local and offsite/online data protection for the enterprise. We have a different approach to online data backup as “it is not about the backup but the RECOVERY.” And we have tools to help the channel guide their clients to getting a faster recovery time objective met using our technology.

What is the one technology development that will have the greatest impact in 2011?

Increased storage capacity on disks.

To find out more about Steven Ferman and eTegrity Systems International, visit the company at ITEXPO West 2010. To be held Oct. 4 to 6 in Los Angeles, ITEXPO (News - Alert) is the world’s premier IP communications event. Don’t wait. Register now.

Beecher Tuttle is a Web Editor for TMCnet. He has extensive experience writing and editing for print publications and online news websites. He has specialized in a variety of industries, including health care technology, politics and education. To read more of his articles, please visit his columnist page.

Edited by Beecher Tuttle

(source: http://it.tmcnet.com/topics/it/articles/103184-itexpo-speaker-offsite-data-protection-key-enterprises.htm)