Egnyte 2.0 virtual file server adds iPhone support

Egnyte's web-based file server service has been upgraded with iPhone support, the company says. Egnyte is adding other enhancements to the service, which provides small businesses with a web-based alternative to traditional file servers. Small to medium-sized companies store their files in Egnyte's "cloud," at the cost of a monthly fee. Users can access the data on any machine and collaborate on projects in a virtual office environment.

Egnyte's mDrive client for the iPhone is also web-based, requiring no app installation. Users cannot edit files, but can view, share and set access restrictions on folders and documents.

Sharing a file traditionally involves sending it as an e-mail attachment; mDrive gets around the problem by e-mailing a secure link to the shared item, which can be set to expire after a certain time. As files are altered, the service also saves each version, along with any associated comments.

Besides mDrive for the iPhone, v2.0 of the Egnyte service includes a new interface, which allows users to more easily customize data fields and set sorting criteria. The data backup function for the service has been improved as well, with bandwidth throttling, filetype exclusions and enhanced scheduling. Improved caching gives users faster access to data.

Egnyte works with most platforms, including Mac OS X, Windows and Linux. Web access works with Firefox, Safari 3 and Internet Explorer 6 and 7. Monthly fees start at $15 per full-service user.

Filed under: iPhone, enterprise, upgrades/storage, networking