Other upgrades to ix2 include "Folder Quotas," which allow users to set a maximum capacity for shared storage folders to prevent any of the folders from taking up too much space. For example, if a folder exceeds 90% of its capacity, the ix2 sends a message so that the folder size can be adjusted.

Iomega also included the Apple File Protocol on the updated NAS drive, enabling file-sharing for Mac users.

The Iomega StorCenter ix2 for home users comes with built-in support for Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) and Digital Living Network Alliance-certified devices, so it can store and play back multimedia files -- music, photos, videos and other digital content -- from PCs and laptops as well as from Sony PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 consoles.

The ix2 comes with data encryption technology from EMC's RSA Security Inc. unit and EMC Retrospect Express backup software. The NAS drive also includes MozyHome online backup, which provides 2GB of free online storage for connected PC and Mac computers, with the option to upgrade to unlimited online backup storage for $4.95 per month per computer.

The 1TB StorCenter ix2 drive retails for $299.95; the 2TB model is available for $479.95.