Product Reviews

Online storage is a useful way to protect your files against local hardware failure. BT's Digital Vault promises storage and more besides, throwing file sharing and an automated backup tool into the mix.

No special software is required to access the Digital Vault. It enables access to your files from any internet-connected computer by using a web browser. From the Digital Vault homepage, there is direct access to Upload and Share tools. Upload takes the form of a drag-and-drop dialog box, which makes uploading lots of files and folders quick and efficient.

The share tool lets Digital Vault

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double as a photo- or video-sharing base. You can build photo or video albums from your uploaded files and send viewing invitations to friends, who can then view a slideshow of the album or download the original files. A similar tool lets you compile folders of files that can be shared for collaborative work among colleagues.

It's easy to navigate through the various tools, but keeping track of files can be harder. The interface doesn't visually distinguish between folders and files, and you can't have subfolders. This makes navigation and organisation difficult. Together with a slow interface response, it can be frustrating to use.

The automated backup tool is available only with the paid-for service (or if you are a BT broadband customer). It lets you select files or folders for regular backup. Once initiated, the backup application ensures that any changes to your protected files and folders are saved to the Digital Vault without further intervention.

The free version does a good job, and the photo and video albums are a nice touch. However, the slow interface and poor file organisation are problems, making the paid-for version's £60 annual fee seem expensive.