Microsoft and Seagate entered into a partnership to provide cloud-based data protection, and currently working to integrate i365's EVault data protection software and cloud-connected storage infrastructure with DPM 2010. First configuration’ll include an appliance-based backup solution, which’s scheduled for delivery in first half of 2010 with rtm of DPM 2010. This effort’ll offer SMBs data protection for Windows file servers and applications, and other platforms and applications, including UNIX, Linux, Novell Netware, VMware, IBM i and Oracle, according to George Hoenig. DPM protects Windows application and file server data by continuously capturing data changes with byte-level and block-level agents, providing disk and/or tape-based data protection and application recovery. Microsoft's goal is to extend applicability of DPM 2010 to non-Microsoft operating systems and applications, and to provide an offsite, cloud storage option for backup, recovery and disaster recovery. The benefit for i365 is access to new customers and a bigger piece of cloud storage market.