Abstract: A method includes transmitting file identifying information to a dispatch server; receiving from the dispatch server a storage location identifier and a distribution algorithm identifier; performing the distribution algorithm to generate a distribution map for segments of the file; and transmitting the file segments to storage locations in accordance with the distribution map. The distribution map indicates for each file segment a segment size and a storage destination for that segment. The storage location identifier may identify a server cluster; the dispatch server and the server cluster may be located at a third-party facility physically and/or logically remote from the client. A plurality of distribution algorithms may be provided, so that the distribution algorithm and the distribution map for one stored file are distinct from the distribution algorithm and the distribution map for another stored file.