Box
Box is a cloud-based content management platform that provides secure file sharing, automated workflows, and collaboration tools to help you manage your entire content lifecycle in one place.
openmediavault
openmediavault is a modular network attached storage solution based on Debian Linux that provides you with an easy-to-use web interface for managing home and small office data storage.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Box | openmediavault |
|---|---|---|
| Website | box.com | openmediavault.org |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Starting Price | Free | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 14 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2005 | 2009 |
| Headquarters | Redwood City, USA | null |
Overview
Box
Box is a cloud content management platform designed to help you securely store, share, and collaborate on files from any device. Instead of juggling multiple versions of documents across email threads, you get a single source of truth where your team can edit files in real-time using integrated tools like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and Apple iWork.
You can automate complex business processes like contract approvals and digital onboarding using built-in relay tools. The platform prioritizes security with enterprise-grade encryption and compliance controls, making it a reliable choice for businesses handling sensitive data. Whether you are a small team or a global enterprise, you can scale your storage and security needs while maintaining full visibility into how your content is accessed.
openmediavault
openmediavault gives you a powerful, open-source platform to transform any computer into a dedicated network attached storage (NAS) system. Built on the stable Debian Linux foundation, it provides you with a clean, web-based interface to manage your hard drives, user permissions, and shared folders without needing deep command-line knowledge. You can easily set up RAID arrays to protect your data and share files across your local network using standard protocols like SMB, NFS, and FTP.
The software is designed for home users and small offices who want full control over their hardware and data privacy. Because it uses a modular plugin system, you can expand your server's capabilities to include media streaming, BitTorrent clients, and automated cloud backups. It is completely free to use, allowing you to repurpose old hardware into a professional-grade storage appliance that keeps your digital life organized and secure.
Overview
Box Features
- Secure File Sharing Share files and folders with anyone using password-protected links and expiration dates to maintain total control.
- Box Canvas Collaborate with your team on an infinite virtual whiteboard to brainstorm ideas and map out projects visually.
- Box Notes Create project plans and take meeting notes in real-time with your colleagues without leaving the platform.
- Automated Workflows Build custom triggers to automate repetitive tasks like document approvals and content reviews to save time.
- Box Sign Request and execute unlimited electronic signatures directly within your folders to close deals and contracts faster.
- Mobile Access Preview, edit, and share your files on the go with native apps for your iPhone, iPad, or Android.
- Version Control Track every change made to your documents and revert to previous versions with a single click.
- Advanced Search Find exactly what you need instantly by searching through file text, metadata, and custom tags.
openmediavault Features
- Web-Based Administration. Manage your entire storage server through a clean, browser-based interface that simplifies complex system configuration and monitoring tasks.
- Storage Management. Configure your hard drives with ease, including support for GPT partitions, RAID levels 0, 1, 5, 6, and JBOD.
- User Permissions. Control exactly who can access your files by creating specific user accounts and managing access rights for shared folders.
- Network Protocols. Share your files across Windows, Mac, and Linux devices using built-in support for SMB/CIFS, NFS, FTP, and SSH.
- Modular Plugin System. Extend your server's functionality by installing official and third-party plugins for media streaming, antivirus, and automated backups.
- System Monitoring. Keep an eye on your server's health with integrated tools for CPU usage, memory consumption, and disk temperature alerts.
Pricing Comparison
Box Pricing
- 10GB of secure storage
- 250MB file upload limit
- Standard e-signatures
- Mobile and desktop access
- Two-factor authentication
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Unlimited storage
- 5GB file upload limit
- Unlimited e-signatures
- Technical support
- Advanced user reporting
openmediavault Pricing
- Full web-based administration
- RAID and volume management
- SMB, NFS, and FTP support
- Access to official plugins
- Regular security updates
- Community forum support
- Everything in Community, plus:
- Optional financial support
- Help sustain project development
- Contribute to hosting costs
- Support open-source software
Pros & Cons
Box
Pros
- Excellent integration with Microsoft and Google apps
- Enterprise-grade security and compliance features
- Unlimited storage on most business plans
- Easy to share large files externally
- Reliable offline sync for desktop users
Cons
- Search functionality can feel slow occasionally
- Interface feels less modern than some competitors
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced automation
openmediavault
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no hidden costs
- Low hardware requirements allow use of older computers
- Extremely stable foundation based on Debian Linux
- Highly customizable through a wide range of plugins
- Active community provides extensive documentation and help
Cons
- Initial installation requires some basic technical knowledge
- Web interface can feel slightly dated compared to commercial NAS
- Plugin compatibility can vary between major version updates