This number-locked USB drive promises incredibly secure lockdown of sensitive data. Being agnostic to computer type, and not requiring any software to be installed on a host computer, is a major bonus. Two-tier admin/user access ensures that the drive's data should always remain accessible by its owner even if a second user forgets their code or tries to reset the code. Compared to the same capacity in unencrypted storage, this is an expensive USB drive. But it's one that should earn its keep for those who need this level of security assurance. Given its better 256-bit security and improved keypad, we’d recommended the iStorage diskGenie over the Lenovo version.

The TS-659 Pro Turbo NAS device is built for those who need 12TB of storage capacity but aren't fussed too much about speed. There are much faster - and cheaper - alternatives. However, the TS-659 Pro Turbo has plenty of server features to suit both the home and small offices.

If you're after speed, the My Book 3.0 external hard drive will certainly deliver. However, you'll pay a premium for the USB 3.0 interface, and there's no backup software or eInk display for labelling.

Despite its small stature, the four-bay QNAP TS-459 Pro Turbo NAS device packs a mean punch. There are plenty of features to suit the home and small office, and it's powerful components will make for quick backups and lag-free media streaming.

An intriguing concept, the Ionics Plug Computer 3.0 is a worthy first model based on Marvell’s Sheevaplug always-on microserver platform. Of course, it remains to be seen whether the always-on, networkable PC that plugs in to the power socket is a goer.

Synology's five-bay NAS device is suited to both homes and businesses, offering fast performance and up to 10TB of storage. If you need to store a lot of data, the DiskStation DS509+ is definitely one to consider.

If you don't want a central backup server or NAS device, the BlackArmor WS 110 external hard drive will give you tight reins over when, where and how you back up files from a computer.

Synology's two-bay NAS device is a fast performer, though you'll pay a premium compared to other two-bay NAS devices. It lacks some SMB-focussed features, but home users will find the audio and photo browsers very useful.

The Rikiki portable hard drive's size is certainly appealing, but it isn't the only drawcard. The hard drive provides reasonable all-round performance, at a cheaper price than most alternatives currently available.

For times when you really must safeguard your data against the elements and environment, the Corsair Survivor GT offers a durable and hard-wearing solution, with the added benefit of reasonably brisk transfer speeds.

QNAP's TS-210 Turbo NAS device is cheap and simple, but doesn't have the performance and features found of more expensive products. As an entry-level server, however, the NAS device is a good value option.

It may be expensive, but there's still plenty of value in the ReadyNAS Pro for the medium to large business. The ability to set and forget the NAS device is great for IT admins, and the read/write performance is certainly beneficial for multiple simultaneous users.

The Thecus N7700 NAS device works best as a basic network share and when coupled with an iSCSI server. The ability to mount ISO images is also handy for deploying software across a company, but poor user administration features hamper its effectiveness in large work environments.

Only its inability to be powered by a USB cable mars the versatile Onnto TB-S120 drive, which in other respects is a nicely built and highly specified hard disk enclosure.

The Netgear Stora (MS2110) is a simple and sleek NAS device for the home that offers an easy to use Web-based interface and remote access for media files. The initial price tag is certainly appealing, but there is an annual fee for remote access.