A few weeks ago we reviewed DropBox as a means of storing files and back-up remotely.  It now transpires that the Linux distribution Ubuntu now have a similar Cloud Computing application, Ubuntu One, which  currently being Beta tested.
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This testing is currently closed, but is available to Ubuntu users with a Launchpad account by invitation.  Reports indicate that requests on the site are taking a long time to come through, however CoConut Solutions jumped the queue somewhat by asking for an invite in the #ubuntuone IRC chatroom.
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Of course by taking a product that is currently being Beta tested, means that you are part of the testing team, and that there are likely to be bugs in the platform, as a result it is a good idea NOT to use the facility for sensitive, valuable or irreplaceable data just yet.
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The basic package seems to be very similar to, and in Ubuntu, works in the same way as DropBox.  Clicking on the icon in the panel opens the Ubuntu One folder, which appears just the same as any other folder in the Nautilus file system.  From there you click & drag, or copy & paste the files and folders across from your computer to the ‘Cloud Computer’.
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The proposals are that (again) like DropBox there will be free (no-cost) accounts fro storage up to 2GB.  For $10US per month you can upgrade the account to 10GB.  In addition:
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• Seamless integration with your Ubuntu based computer
• Sync files between multiple machines
• Access to your files away from your computers via our web interface
• Free 2GB Storage Plan

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I’m sure that you are wondering what the advantages of Ubuntu One will be over DropBox.  The answer is that Ubuntu One comes from a trusted source, as such updates and patches will be released through the Update Manager, and latest versions held in the Ubuntu Repositories.  If things change with DropBox, there is the danger that they may not be able to co-ordinate patches or upgrades in the same manner that Ubuntu can.
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There is no indication as to how long Ubuntu One will be in Beta, however there have been unsubstantiated rumours that there is a desire to have Ubuntu One available with v09.10 which is due for release in October.  If it is not possible to have it ready later in the year, we are sure that Canonical will what this feature as part of v10.04, which following Ubuntu’s release schedule, will be the Long Term Support release.
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CoConut Solutions has been using WordPress blogging software as a template behind web-sites for a number of years.  We do this as and we recommend it to our customers for one reason only.  It’s easy to use.
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WordPress is a tried ans tested Content Management System (CMS).  It is the database on which all the content for your site is entered and stored.  As mentioned before, WordPress is primarily a blogging package, but it’s flexibility means that it is ideal for building and maintaining a small site.  In addition to this there are countless themes available to download from the internet which gives your site it’s unique look, as well as innumerable plug-ins making your site unique to visitors.
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It is hard to explain just how simple it is to use.  The closest comparison is that generating content for your website is about as easy as writing an e-mail using Hotmail.  This means that you can keep your website up to date.  You can quickly make changes and alterations to reflect special offers or changes within your business or organisation, and you can do this yourself.  This means that changes are done immediately, and saves you the cost of  employing Web-Developers to make minor alterations.
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CoConut Solutions can set you up with everything you need to build your own site.  We can also supply the necessary content to get you started, as well as providing training that has been tailored to suit your needs to ensure that you can keep your site runnig the way that you want.
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Have a look at this video showing how easy it is to use WordPress Control Panel.  This is the back door to your site, the place where you enter all your articles, pages and pictures.
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CoConut Solutions recommends that all users make regular back-ups of their data.  Not only that, but to combat against theft or component breakage that back-ups be kept off-site.  The internet means that you don’t have to remember to carry discs or memory sticks around with you.
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Dropbox offers 2GB of free space to store the more valuable data of your home or business life, be-it trading accounts, family photos or even video or music.  Once installed, Dropbox appears as an extra file on your computer, and you just drag-and-drop the files that you want to back-up, and Dropbox does the rest.
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2GB is enough for most users, however if you require more space you can upgrade to Dropbox-Pro.  However, using our servers, CoConut Solutions can provide a much more cost effective storage solution.  We package your storage to your needs and priced accordingly.  If you require more space, give us a call, drop us an e-mail or even a text, and we will alter your back-up storage facility accordingly.  We can even come to your premeds, physically copy your data, and upload it to our servers for you – all you then have to do is upload new data as it is changed or created.
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For low volume storage, DropBox can’t be beaten of price, but for higher volumes and a specialist approach, CoConut Solutions will tailor a product specific to your needs.

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