Cloud storage

The other day my hard disk crashed and I lost much data. Fortunately I had some backup on other disk. Still I lost some important data and some family pictures. This might happen to any of us, so better safe than sorry. I have started using cloud storage for any unexpected loss of important data. I will try to give you all a brief introduction to all the free cloud storage service which we all can use.

Everything you need to know about cloud storage.

What is cloud Storage?

Cloud storage is a model of storing digital data. This is typically owned by Hosting companies. These cloud storage providers are responsible for keeping the data available and accessible, and the physical environment protected and running. You (only you) can access this data from almost everywhere.
Some of the companies like Google, Microsoft, Apple etc provides free cloud storage. Google drive provides 15 GB of space, and Microsoft offers 5 GB of free space and they also offers more space for monthly and yearly subscription. Cool, isn’t it? Lets discuss some of these cloud storage providers.

Advantages of cloud Storage

1. Accessibility – The biggest advantage is you can access the data from almost anyplace, just you will require an internet connection. Most service providers have their mobile apps to access data. Some 2rd party apps also allow to stream music from your cloud storage.
2. Data Recovery – It is highly recommended that you should backup your important data and be ready for any disaster. Storing your data in the cloud storage will help you to recover them in such a situation.
3. Bandwidth – Another great advantage is you can save bandwidth by sending the links to these data instead of emailing them.
4. Drag and Drop – Most of them also provide apps for easy drag and drop feature. However I would suggest to copy and paste so that you have data in your original place too.
5. Savings – There is overall savings in storing data remotely, this is however applicable for big organization. Also you don’t have to store data in multiple places.
6. Collaboration – You can provide access to any person and allow them to add, edit data or documents.
7. Eco-friendly – This is also Eco friendly, as it takes fewer resources thereby saving energy.

1. Google drive

We all use lots of google services like google for search, Gmail for email etc. Google drive is among such service for storing your data on cloud. You get 15 GB for storing your data. You can also get more space for monthly and yearly prices. You can store almost anything. You can also edit your docs, excel and power point using google docs. You can access it from your desktop, tablets or phones too. Share your files with friends or clients with links instead of adding attachments.
Your data is highly secured, are encrypted using SSL, the same security protocol used in Gmail and other Google services.
Get Google Drive

2. Dropbox

Dropbox is a file hosting service operated by American company Dropbox, Inc., headquartered in San Francisco, California, that offers cloud storage, file synchronization, personal cloud, and client software. Dropbox allows users to create a special folder on their computers, which Dropbox then synchronizes so that it appears to be the same folder (with the same contents) regardless of which device is used to view it. Files placed in this folder are also accessible via the Dropbox website and mobile apps.
You get 2 GB free space when you signup and they have plans to get more space.
Get Dropbox

3. OneDrive

OneDrive is a Microsoft’s service which gives you 5 GB of free space, you can get 50 GB for just Rs. 123 per month. One drive comes built into Windows 8.1 and above. For earlier windows you can install the desktop app. This will install a folder on your computer that’s kept sync with one drive. Its apps is available for for windows phone, android and IOS.

Get One Drive

4. Apple icloud

Icloud is similar service by Apple for Apple devices. We can store data such as documents, photos, and music on remote servers for download to iOS, Macintosh or Windows devices, to share and send data to other users, and to manage their Apple devices if lost or stolen.
The service also provides the means to wirelessly back up iOS devices directly to iCloud, instead of being reliant on manual backups to a host Mac or Windows computer using iTunes. Service users are also able to share photos, music, and games instantly by linking accounts via AirDrop wireless.
You get 5 GB space for free and that can be extended upto 1 TB with various monthly plans. You can setup on your IOS, Mac and desktop too.

Get iCloud
Read more on next page, link below Related Posts.