Israeli Telecom Provider Bezeq Protects SMB Data Using Ctera

CTERA Networks Ltd. announced that Bezeq The Israel Telecommunication Corp., Israel’s largest telecommunications provider with more than one million Internet subscribers, has launched Bezeq Remote Backup for Business—a new hybrid cloud-based solution for managed storage and data protection based on CTERA Networks’ Cloud Attached Storage appliances and management portal.

Bezeq was showcasing the service at Bezeq Expo, its annual event, on December 14, 2011 in Tel Aviv. This year’s keynote speaker was Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group.

The ‘Powered by CTERA’ service, aimed at the SMB market, is a hybrid local and cloud backup solution combining the performance of local storage with secure and resilient cloud-based DR. With this service, Bezeq meets the storage and data protection needs of businesses ranging from a few employees to hundreds of employees, replacing traditional solutions such as file servers and backup tapes.

The remote backup service is provided out of Bezeq’s modern, underground cloud datacenter: a dedicated facility with 24/7 security surveillance, fire prevention, auxiliary power, and additional safety measures.

"Since we launched Remote Backup for Business powered by CTERA several months ago, we have seen excellent uptake of the service, as a cost-effective solution for SMBs who currently do not have adequate data protection and disaster recovery capability," said Yossi Zigmon, head of products and services, Bezeq Marketing Division. "As the leading telco in Israel we are uniquely positioned to deliver such services at the highest standard."

"Providing cloud services has become a global trend for ISPs and telcos, drawing on their investment in datacenters and broadband infrastructure," said Liran Eshel, CEO of CTERA Networks. "We are excited to be working with Bezeq on this innovative service, securing customer data and providing real value and peace of mind to its SMB subscribers."

The service is available through Bezeq’s business division. A variety of bundles is available with prices starting at $50 US per month, which includes a local appliance, built-in backup software and cloud storage.