SugarSync

SugarSync operates as a cloud service provider specializing in file synchronization, backup, access, and sharing across a multitude of devices and operating systems. The company's core offering allows users to sync files and folders from their computers—maintaining the original folder structure—and access them on other devices such as PCs, Macs, and Android or iOS smartphones. This functionality is designed for continuous, automatic updates; any modifications, additions, or deletions on one linked device are mirrored across all others connected to the account. Deleted files are held in an archive folder, allowing for user-managed recovery.

The company's history traces back to Sharpcast, a firm incorporated in 2004 by Gibu Thomas and Ben Strong. Sharpcast initially launched a photo-syncing tool in 2006 before the founders departed in 2008. Following their departure, Laura Yecies was appointed CEO in December 2008, and the company was rebranded as SugarSync in 2009. A significant milestone occurred in March 2015 when the company was acquired by j2 Global, an internet services provider, which added SugarSync to its portfolio of cloud backup services that included KeepItSafe and Livedrive. Over its independent history, SugarSync secured $35 million in funding over five rounds.

SugarSync's business model is subscription-based, having transitioned from a 'freemium' model to a paid-only service in early 2014. It caters to both individual consumers and business clients. Personal plans are tiered by storage capacity, offering various levels from 100GB to 500GB. For businesses, SugarSync provides plans that include features like an administrative control center, remote data wiping for user devices, and support for multiple users under a single account. The company has established partnerships with major brands like Lenovo, SanDisk, and France Telecom-Orange to bundle its cloud services with their products.

Keywords: cloud sync, file sharing, online backup, data synchronization, cross-platform storage, remote access, folder mirroring, cloud storage service, digital asset management, file backup solution, multi-device sync, j2 Global, Sharpcast, secure file sharing, business cloud storage, personal cloud, remote wipe, data recovery, automatic backup, document management