The ISP@SwapDrive program is designed to enable service providers to offer customers more value-added services in a single bundled package.

by Wayne Kawamoto [April 26, 2001]

SwapDrive, a provider of online file management and storage software and services, recently announced the launch of ISP@SwapDrive, a program that caters to ISPs by creating extra value-added services for their customer base. ISP@SwapDrive is the most recent addition to the SwapDrive Provider Network (SPN), which provides companies with tools that may help them build online storage and file management systems that are compatible with the SwapDrive platform.

In a secure environment, the ISP@SwapDrive program should enable ISPs to create files and folders that are accessible over the Internet.

SwapDrive says that its service is similar to an office Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN) because it allows users to establish groups and assign access permissions to specific folders as well as share files with other users. SwapDrive also offers a variety of complementary technologies that include SDBackup, an automated backup tool; support for Palm VII users; DesignPACK, an online viewing and editing tool for an assortment of file formats; and large file compression and encryption prior to transfer.

"By offering additional services to customers such as online file sharing and automated back-up, ISPs can differentiate themselves from competitors and at the same time become more attractive to potential customers," said Marc Wallace, SwapDrive CEO. "ISP@SwapDrive ultimately increases the value-add of a service provider's offering."

SwapDrive employs hardware and software from Cisco, EMC, Hewlett-Packard, Microsoft, Veritas, and companies. Hosting and storage is provided by Exodus and Storage Networks.

Pricing and availability
The ISP@SwapDrive program is priced on a per-gigabyte basis with discounts available for blocks of storage in excess of 10 gigabytes.

SwapDrive offers two pricing models to make services available to an ISP's customers. Option one allows the ISP to purchase a block of storage from SwapDrive and then resell it to customers. The second option is for ISPs to refer interested parties to SwapDrive and receive compensation on a revenue-sharing basis.

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