The three main uses of Box.net are to backup, share and access files from anywhere.
Users can upload files through their web browser or by sending them to upload@box.net. Once a file is uploaded, you can put it in a folder, tag it, share it via e-mail, add it to a public box, post it to a blog and of course download it. Additionally, using ZoHo, users can edit Word and Excel documents online. Files can be be accessed on any computer using the internet and on any mobile device via m.box.net.
Box.net also offers a widget which is especially intriguing. It’s effectively a public folder that can be customized and embedded in a web page. In addition, media files are played within the widget. It’s great if you have a folder full of things to share.
There are a few different pricing options available. A 1GB “Lite” account is free. That’s followed by a 5GB $8/month “Individual” account and the “Business” account with 15GB worth of space for $20/month. There are price breaks when a year is paid in full. There are also “Enterprise” accounts, but prices aren’t listed on the site.
Box.net offers a workgroup feature for an additional $20 per month (up to 20 users), which makes it easy to collaborate with clients and colleagues. You can restrict access to certain folders and control whether users can upload, download or have full access to your file(s).
