Storage

A new class of portable hard drive creates its own Wi-Fi hotspot.

Dropbox is a useful service that proves its worth time and time again. But to sync your data to other computers and mobile devices, you need to get that data into the default Dropbox folder in the first place, and sometimes that can prove problematic. Some data--such as browser profiles (Firefox), games points and profiles, Outlook data files, and password manager files (such as KeePass)-- can't be moved. For this, you will need Dropbox Folder Sync.

The HP StoreEasy 5530 puts serious muscle behind Windows file serving, Hyper-V virtualization, and SQL Server workloads

SugarSync recently rolled out a new-look interface with new features. Is it enough to push the cloud storage service over the top?

The Iomega px2-300d is a two-bay NAS box that delivers very good performance, excellent backup and surveillance features, and a helpful LCD that reports on the unit's status (IP address, current time, storage remaining, and so on). Its EMC LifeLine operating system is also one of the more feature-rich ones in the industry. But you should buy this box bare--Iomega populates it with enterprise-class hard drives that jack up the price.

It takes something different to stand out in the crowded network-attached storage market. How does free, as in free beer and free speech, sound?

The scoop: Wireless Plus mobile storage, by Seagate, about $200 (1TB capacity)

Is your PC still relying on an old-school hard drive? Installing a solid-state drive is the best upgrade investment you can make.

The Iomega px2-300d is a two-bay NAS box that delivers very good performance, excellent backup and surveillance features, and a helpful LCD that reports on the unit's status (IP address, current time, storage remaining, and so on). Its EMC LifeLine operating system is also one of the more feature-rich ones in the industry. But you should buy this box bare—Iomega populates it with enterprise-class hard drives that jack up the price.

You can never have too much digital storage, and the day will come—sooner than you think—when you won’t be able to squeeze a single new file onto your computer’s hard drive. And if your primary computer is a laptop or an all-in-one desktop, you won’t be able to solve the problem by opening the case and tossing in a supplemental drive.

When Apple unveiled its new Fusion Drive in October, the announcement left more questions than answers. With precious few details on offer, it seemed as if Apple were merely applying a bit of marketing glitz to the not-very-new hybrid drive market.

The $100, 500GB Western Digital My Passport Edge is thinner and more attractive than the standard WD My Passport, but it can't compete with Seagate's Slim in either regard. It's an excellent performer and sports a nice software utility bundle, but isn't available in larger capacities.