MCI's network is users' file cabinet

MCI, in a bid to take over data management for enterprise computer users, launched networkMCI Backup, a network-based data storage and security service, at last week's Comdex show in Chicago.

The service debuts as carriers are getting more involved in managing private networks with the capabilities of their public network backbones. Vendors of high-availability computer storage equipment also are enjoying new interest in their wares from public network operators.

In addition, networkMCI Backup addresses a heightened market sensitivity for information security. The service will be available through September in a free trial to a limited charter membership so that MCI can effectively manage its launch and make adjustments if needed. Unlike some storage and disaster recovery services that charge per use, users will pay a storage fee of $12.95 per month for 50 Mbytes of storage space.

"We wanted to make it as simple and as practical as possible," said Susette Gongola, senior manager for brand marketing programs at MCI Telecommunications.

"Many PC users only back up files on disk, or in some other way that makes retrieval difficult," she said, noting that disks and other physical media can be easily damaged or lost.

The service takes advantage of MCI's high-speed Internet backbone, recently upgraded to 155 Mb/s, to transmit computer files to high-availability storage facilities on MCI's own intranet.