Latest News / Comments

05/08/10

Released

HomeServerSync is released into the wild.

If you would like to test out the 3 amazing components that make HomeServerSync unique then it's as simple as dropping an email to trial. Within minutes you will be backing up your files in real time, and experiencing features that will release your Home Server - bring it to life ! 

28/07/10

64bit Desktop Client - signed.

HomeServerSync client gets 64bit driver signing - that means it will work on the latest 64bit OS platforms, ie Win7 64bit.

This 'signing' has taken longer than planned, and the final release of the suite may drift over the deadline (July 2010) into August, but only by a few days.

The final release notice will be posted here - soon.....

19/07/10

Roll up - ready to be crafted

The final mile approaches!

HomeServerSync components and servers are all ready for our 'roll up' process and test.  There are many ingredients used in the HomeServerSync recipe - each one has been carefully created and exhaustively tested - but it's coming time now for the master chef to craft the final product.

Over the next 3-5 days the completed Home Server Add In will be meticulously tested and tested and tested again.  If all goes according to plan, it will then be released before the end of the month of July.

 

09/07/10

Add In Beta testers invited

We are pleased to confirm that the HomeServerSync Suite of products is now almost out of beta.  The VPN / Sync modules are still in beta, and are working well – with just a few issues being resolved.

We have had approx 26.5TB transferred through the VPN tunnels, with over 1800 PCs connected.

VPN Beta users have enjoyed unlimited fast remote access to the WHS console / WHS RDC / WHS Shares / WHS backups etc along with RDC / folder access to all PCs  on their private VPNs – many want it forever, and are relying on the VPN for daily use ! 

The Sync tool is very flexible is use, and although designed for PC <> WHS synchronisation has been used for WHS <> WHS synchronisation too (ie mirroring WHS data folders) – not officially supported, but possible.

Today the HomeServerSync Offsite backup WHS Add In goes to final beta.  This module provides off site backup for the WHS device -  and the central management console for VPNs and PC / WHS Syncs.  The beta (not including the VPN / Sync components) is available now for BETA users. 

Any interested beta testers should simply drop a line to  hssbeta5@homeserversync.co.uk  they will get a download link and simple instructions, shortly after sending the email.  With an offer to enjoy a discount on the final released product, as a token of our appreciation.

First review :
http://usingwindowshomeserver.com/2010/07/09/an-exclusive-first-look-at-the-homeserversync-add-in-beta-for-windows-home-server/

05/07/10

Almost there

July is here - and so will the final release of HomeServerSync be too.

A big thanks to the VPN beta testers.  It's been interesting to see just how much traffic has flowed through our VPN servers during the beta test phase.  What have you guys been sharing !?

The VPN beta test is now CLOSED, no further new applications will be accepted.  If you are a current VPB beta tester, please wait for a notice concerning the closure of the VPN Beta Servers.


As the VPN trials continue, and we're seeing a great deal of excitement from users who are accessing the WHS console, backing up to WHS, and opening shared folders etc from any internet connected PC (via the secure VPN connections).  It provides an unusual feeling to access your WHS from anywhere, especially for file folder updating, streaming content etc.  This truly breaks the barriers of WHS being behind walls (oh the WHS firewall stays in place).  Only delay on the VPN tunnel is the 64bit version, which is still being tested.

Moving on from the VPN component - the WHS/client 'sync' modules are also completed.  Now you can sync specific PC folders to specific WHS folders in one or both directions.  Version / deletion control are all in there.  Again, being able to 'carry your files' with you on your laptop, but ensuring they are in sync with the WHS (duplicated / protected) folders via the secure VPN tunnel is a huge benefit for both Home and SOHO users alike.  For remote family members, having HomeServerSync means the remote PCs will enjoy all the sync functions as well as PC backups - yes, via the internet !  For small businesses, having the office update your files, or vice versa can fix real headaches - just think of the possibilities !

The encrypted offsite backup server is also running now, with client access to monitor backups, download files, set alert triggers etc all via a browser.  The bulk upload / download options are still in test, but once completed will be very helpful to 'seed' your offsite backups or to get the 'whole' backup back quickly (via encrypted HDD).     

Within the next 7-10 days the HomeServerSync WHS Add In will be released to a closed beta - with full commercial release still planned within the month of July.

17/06/10

VPN BETA Testers wanted

We are seeking a ‘select’ number of BETA clients to test a component of HSS (VPN tunneling)

The test enables users to create their own VPN – secured by private PSK.  HomeServerSync uses this secure VPN to enable sync between client PCs and WHS

To learn more - please contact us

17/06/10

VPN tunnelling

We are pleased to announce that the VPN (remote networking) function of the HSS system is now fully operational.  All PCs / WHS devices can communicate equally well and secure whether they are locally or remotely connected.  That means not only can folders / files be sync'ed - but Media folders (ie music) can be accessed / streamed whether you are 'at home' with your Home Server - or 'away' via the internet ! (shared folders on the PC desktop, can be accessed whether local or remotely connected)

All traffic flows 'securely' through the HSS Network - with very fast internet connections (GB speed) - not only does this mean that data throughput is 'secure' it also means that there is no need for complex 'firewall' or 'port forwarding' issues often related to 'network access' via the internet.

11/06/10

News Letter 1

We would like to thank so many clients for signing up to the 'pre-order' offer. 
Please download this first news letter, containing some news from the dev' team as well as some useful tips re preparing for HomeServerSync. There's also a brief scenario that typifies HomeServerSync.
News Letter 1 (approx 700k .pdf)

02/06/10

Security (Sync)

We have been asked 'how secure' is the PC/WHS/PC synchronisation ?

The system works via  SECURE VPN tunnel, called Tran-WAN.  This service is operated and owned by Tranquil PC, we do not use 3rd party providers for VPN.
An Account ID, Password and Pre-Shared Key is used on each WHS system and client PC to create the secure tunnel.  The PSK is not stored or used on the Tran-WAN server.



All data traffic is routed through the Tran-WAN network, which ensures security and ease of installation / usage.  All files that are transferred are firstly encrypted.

HomeServerSync, does not use or rely on the https://***.homeserver.com domain system for file transfer, as this can be difficult to setup / maintain and is limited.

01/06/10

HomeServerSync Pre-Order Offer

 The product is now available – please see the link below :
http://www.tranquilpc-shop.co.uk/acatalog/software.html

Please take special note of the conditions of this pre-purchase, and your right to cancel within the first 15 days.

 HomeServerSync Team

01/06/10

HomeServerSync - pricing is revealed below.  The brand new architecture delivers not only unique features - very secure routed network paths, real time synchronisation, RAID protected off site backups etc - but also exciting 'remote' user features to keep multi-user family / small business user data up to date, all of the time.

The HomeServerSync Suite :

10x client licences for Secure Synchronisation from/to Home Server unit (local or remote)
10x client licences to access WHS functions - console/backups/shares (remote)
1x  WHS console application licence (management/sync/backup control)
1x  100GB off site backup facility
1x  User web portal for access/control

Notes - all costs based on approx 60-80GB of off site storage uploaded and then incrementally increased by approx 5GB / month in first year.  Comparison products reviewed @ exchange rate @ 1.5 USD/UKP.
E.OE   HomeServerSync price includes VAT (Ex VAT = £118.30)

Additional blocks of 100GB (off site backup) are available @ £59.00 (incl VAT) / annum.
The costs for initial bulk upload / download (1TB max) are £49.00 (incl VAT) / transaction.

Discounted pre-launch orders (£79+VAT) are being considered - if you would like to learn more - please let us know (Tranquil will provide the T&C's of any discounted pre-order)

26/05/10
How much ?
Is HomeServerSync affordable or expensive ?  It's more a question of what it saves, in terms of time, administration, 3rd party costs.  If you could build a WHS off site backup facility that would cost around $1.00 - $2.80 / GB per year (ie Amazon based systems will cost you $180 / year for 100GB (storage only) + $0.15/GB for uploading / downloading.  Then a reasonable Sync service - ie SugarSync will cost you around $150 / year for a similar level of service.
So what will HomeServerSync cost ?  On Tuesday 1st June 2010, the pricing will be revealed.

 

26/05/10
So much / so many
Growing swell - we've never seen this level of interest in a Home Server Add In.  Although we can't disclose the actual numbers involved, there are 1000's of registered interested users of HomeServerSync joining every day - mainly from UK/EU, but a fair number from the other side of the pond too.
Is this a measure of the 'need' for a simple, effective, affordable WHS off site backup / client sync tool ?
 

25/05/10
FREE HomeServerSync?
Tranquil PC have have thrown out a great offer.  Order ANY SQA-5H server before the end of June 2010, and you will automatically receive a 12 month subscription to HomeServerSync.  To claim your copy, just reply to your emailed order acknowledgement - with the words "Give me my FREE HomeServerSync" and you will get get it once it's released. 

24/05/2010
Car Sync anyone?
A number of users have a great idea - install HomeServerSync - then install HSS client on their car PC.
Now rip some new CDs, download (or otherwise) increase the MP3 library on the Home Server..... park up the car, and by magic the cars audio library is updated (WiFi) overnight.
- Good idea if you are into car PCs
 
24/05/2010
HomeServerSync - FREE competition
If you're interested in learning more about HomeServerSync, you may WIN a 12 month subscription to the service when you register your interest.

24/05/2010
Remote access to your 'Home Server Console' and Home Server 'shared folders' is under test.  What does this mean? 
When you are on your LOCAL LAN, you can open the Home Server console, to change settings, open backups etc.  HomeServerSync provides the same functions even if you are 'away' from your local LAN.  This could be a very powerful feature - bridging the divide.

Backing up your PCs when 'away' from the office is also supported, but this process could take a long time over internet connections.

Of course you can already open the Console via Home Servers built in remote access system, and also get access to shared folders too.  The HomeServerSync solution just makes the experience much easier, and faster - and still secure.