StorageTek Utilizes Storage.

StorageTek is targeting its new storage utility solutions towards resource and capital-constrained, data intensive, companies such as Internet Data Centers and Internet-based companies. StorageTek's offerings include the management of on-site and network or Internet-enabled storage based on the company's disk, tape, SAN, and Backup and Restore Technologies. Customers pay on a cost-per-megabyte/per-month basis, similar to how consumers pay for traditional utility services, like electricity or water.

Atrieva and Frontier GlobalCenter are using the company's new services. WebVision, Inc. has chosen to implement StorageTek's services also. The costs of these solutions, available through StorageTek's MSS group, range from less than one cent to several cents per megabyte/per-month, depending on individual customer requirements and the solution implemented. The storage utility model will be a vehicle for purchasing storage over the next five to seven years, according to David Hill, senior analyst of storage and storage management at Aberdeen Group.

Pricing varies depending on the solution implemented. Disk Utility service is based on cost-per-megabyte. Tape Utility service is based on a base monthly fee plus cost per slot used. Backup and Restore Utility services are based on a base monthly fee plus a cost per gigabyte of data protected.