Cloud Backup Solutions for VARs

defined the space, breaking out the types of cloud backup options into those that the VAR can simply sell; that the VAR or MSP can sell and manage; and that the VAR or MSP can host, sell and manage. The second tip focused on the sales-only model. This tip examines managed cloud backup solutions, where a VAR or MSP not only makes the sale, but also provides ongoing operational support. The follow-on tip will provide detail on the last category of cloud data backup solutions that are available to the channel.

Many VARs who have traditionally sold on-site backup hardware and software are now adding cloud backup to their line cards. Some are adopting a pure reseller model, while others are offering managed backup solutions. It's hard to say whether this makes the second group MSPs or whether they're still VARs who handle backup services for some of their clients. But for the purposes of this article, we'll refer to all solution providers who provide a managed cloud backup service directly to users as MSPs.

From a product perspective, cloud backup sold as a managed service is essentially the same as what was described in second tip in this series: Most managed backup solutions either run as a software component on the client machines being backed up and send data over the Internet to the cloud data center, or run on a server or appliance on-site, taking backup data from client machines and managing the transfer of those files to the cloud.