Live Mesh

After reading a BBC Technology article (here) on smart ways to backup files I decided to try Microsoft's Live Mesh.

Live Mesh isn't only another file storage service. It provides several features such as:
1. Cloud Storage
2. File & Folder share with other users
3. Remote desktop
4. Multiple PCs can be connected to the same account and files/folders synchronised between them.
5. Event feed via RSS which tells you (and people you share folders with) of any changes made by anyone member.

To analyse
1.1 It gives each user 5GB free storage space with an option to upgrade.
1.2 Once a virtual folder is created in the cloud identical folder is created on user's desktop too. Now any files dumped into the folder will be uploaded to the cloud folder. This is very convenient although the upload is not very fast.

2.1 Files and folders can be shared with others and there is a good access control facility (i.e. forbid your friends to share this folder with someone else etc).

3.1 Remote desktop allows you to login into multiple PCs and use/run local applications. For this to work a PC to which you are connecting needs to be connected to the same Live Mesh account. I tried this at work but had no success!! I guess the problem was my network firewall.

4.1 Very useful if you use multiple PCs or work on a joint project with someone and you wish to share files.

5.1 This is useful as it can alert you to new files being added or removed from you account.

Existing services
1. Drop.io , Google Docs (has similar access control), 4shared.com etc.
NOTE: None of these create a local folder on your desktop and some might be less secure.
2. Google Docs (has similar authorisation features),
3. LogMeIn allows remote desktop connection, moving of files between PCs and no hassle with firewalls.

Security
The whole Live Mesh service is protected using your Live ID (i.e. hotmail account) and SSL. I'm not sure that this is very secure. I think they need to introduce two-factor-authentication. Also some form of file encryption in case someone does gain access to you Live Mesh account, although you could encrypt files on your PC before uploading.