Seneca, CTERA Partner on Hybrid Cloud Storage and Data Protection

Seneca Data and CTERA Networks bring secure data storage to the cloud via a partnership that will see Seneca distribute CTERA's cloud storage and security solutions.

Custom system manufacturer and technology distributor Seneca Data announced that it will distribute CTERA Networks' Cloud Attached Storage appliances and offer branded cloud services using CTERA's platform. CTERA's Cloud Attached Storage is a hybrid solution that combines local network storage with off-site cloud storage, cloud backup and remote access.

Under the new partnership, Seneca will distribute CTERA's appliances, including the CloudPlug and C200. The C200 solution is designed for small businesses and branch offices that need to share files, synchronize folders across their network, gain access to files from anywhere and have a secure, transparent and disaster-proof backup of their critical data. The company's Cloud Attached Storage solution is managed via the CTERA Portal, and makes it possible to launch branded cloud-based storage and data protection services that work with the CTERA appliances.

The CTERA CloudPlug is a solution for file sharing, data backup and remote access. The solution converts any external USB/eSATA drive into a NAS appliance with integrated cloud services. Through the partnership, Seneca-affiliated resellers are now able to offer managed cloud storage, backup and remote access services to their existing customer base. With the CTERA Portal, run by Seneca, and offered as software as a service (SAAS), resellers will be able to remotely monitor and control customer storage appliances, offer their own branded cloud backup services, send monthly reports and invoice their customers on a recurring basis, the companies said in a joint release.

"Our new collaboration with CTERA Networks provides our reseller community real choice when offering their small to medium-size business (SMB) and SOHO customers fast, reliable and economical managed backup and storage solutions," said Paul Hayes, director of strategic initiatives for Seneca. "It will allow us to introduce resellers to the world of managed cloud services with minimal investment, providing recurring revenues and tremendous growth potential."

CTERA's data protection solution protects data on the network, along with servers, desktops and laptops, against accidental loss or damage. The combination of local and off-site backup provides disaster recovery and immediate restore capabilities. All data is encrypted using 256-bit AES hardware encryption before being sent to the cloud, and access is controlled with password-protection and authentication mechanisms.

"By joining forces with Seneca we now have access to thousands of new resellers, significantly increasing our reach in North America," said Don Fuller, director of channel sales at CTERA Networks. "Seneca and its partners have recognized the opportunity in managed data protection and storage solutions, and CTERA's technology will allow them to capitalize on this opportunity with the most comprehensive and cost-effective solution in the market."