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Persist Packs Away Email: Page 3 of 5

Persist, however, persists that it has taken a unique approach to the problem. Unlike software-based email archiving products, which need to be loaded on existing hardware and run with existing database applications, AppStor offers a completely integrated package. "This eliminates the need for an à la carte solution," Gerr says. "I think that’s a compelling value proposition."

But Persist certainly will face all of the typical startup challenges -- namely, getting its foot in the door and getting customers to pick its technology over that of the more entrenched players.

Still, the company already has a number of OEM partners, including HP, RLX Technologies, and IBM Corp. (NYSE: IBM); and it has partnered with Zantaz for archiving, and Akonix Systems Inc. and IMlogic Inc. for IM integration.

"I think they’ll face less of a challenge than traditional startups because they’re so focused," says Gerr.

One possible drawback to the company’s technology is that each appliance currently has to be managed independently. Persist says it will eventually allow a user to manage an entire enterprise’s email backup worldwide from a single location.