Patent ID: 7996610
Filing Date: 2011-08-09
Classification: G06F,H04L

Abstract:
1. A method of providing transparent file backup service based on networked computers, the method comprising: establishing an online redundant array of independent disks (RAID) of a plurality of networked computers maintained by a central service controller on a server, the plurality of networked computers belonging to one or more subscribed users; storing backup files of each subscribed user on the online RAID, each subscribed user dedicating at least a portion of storage spaces on corresponding computers to the online RAID for backup files of one or more alternative subscribed users, wherein the dedicated at least a portion of storage spaces are not accessible by the corresponding computers; wherein the central service controller in conjunction of a client software running on each user's computer is configured to coordinate backup file distribution and restoration; the central service controller being configured to utilize computers from a buddy list and wherein the central service controller is further configured to designate a set of alternative subscribed users for the storing backup files when the buddy list is not provided by a subscribed user, wherein the buddy list comprises a list of user-designated computers that are users included in the one or more subscribed users of the service.