You most likely have used online Cloud services if you used the Internet in the last few years. Cloud storage is one of the most popular ways to keep data accessible in 2022. Netflix, Spotify, YouTube, and hundreds of other popular services store their data in Cloud servers.
There are numerous advantages of keeping information on the Cloud. They outweigh the few disadvantages, which we’ll mention at the end of this article. But now, let’s dive into 5 ways you can benefit from professional Cloud storage services.
Data Accessibility
Nowadays, people use many devices that connect to the Internet. There’s often a need to access specific information on whatever device is at hand. For example, if your calendar schedule is saved locally on your home PC, you might forget important meetings because your smartphone will not alert you.
You can access the online Cloud from whatever device that’s connected to the Internet. Google’s calendar is stored on their Cloud and notifies you of meetings on all devices connected to Google.
It’s an efficient way to manage business data access. A fully-developed business cloud solution provides multi-platform access, data backups and is easy to use.
Convenient File Sharing
Whether holiday pictures or important business files, it’s best to share them over a secure channel. Many people share files over their Facebook chat or other unsecured chat platforms.
As of the time of writing, Facebook’s chat is not end-to-end encrypted, which essentially means it’s exposing your data to unnecessary risks.
All Cloud storage services provide file-sharing features. Some generate a link to your data to share with other users. It grants them authorized access to selected information. Meanwhile, others offer direct communication platforms to share information securely.
Data Backups
Everybody knows they should back up their data but postpone it until it’s too late. In reality, your device may crash due to a power shortage, causing irreversible damage to a hard disk. All information is lost unless you spend extra on expensive data recovery services. The same consequences apply to stolen devices.
Professional Cloud service providers have automatic data backups. Whenever you upload information to the Cloud, they create a secure backup. You can access it in case anything happens to the original repository.
No online Cloud storage is 100% safe. Some of them can be hacked and are highly susceptible to outside factors. Ensure your Cloud storage service providers regularly back up data adhering to strict data-safety protocols.
File Synchronization
Real-time file synchronization is a genuine game changer. You can download personal files or device configurations if your device syncs with a chosen Cloud storage. For example, you don’t have to download Android apps one-by-one if you choose to sync it with your Google account.
This is a much-welcome feature for regular Internet users and business owners. The latter can use Cloud to ensure their employees have 24/7 access to crucial data. Moreover, they can work with the same file simultaneously, smoothing out communication lags and increasing performance.
Cost-Friendly Solution
Storing personal data on your hard disk is not a problem. However, many contemporary businesses handle vast amounts of user data. Storing it on personal servers is expensive. Moreover, these servers need to be secured, increasing the expenses even more.
Most Cloud service providers offer flexible and scalable payment plans. You decide how much space you need and pay accordingly. You can upgrade the plan anytime if the requirements grow to obtain additional storage.
Moreover, reputable Cloud services guarantee storage safety. However, it’s best to review the terms and conditions document to verify sufficient cybersecurity features.
Are There Disadvantages To Cloud Storage?
As with any other software, there are a few setbacks regarding their usage. Even though Cloud services are considered significantly advantageous compared to physical drives, here are three things you should know.
1. Internet Dependency
You must have access to the Internet to use the Cloud. If you don’t have an Internet connection on your device, you will not be able to access crucial information. Keeping the most important information offline in addition to Cloud storage is best.
2. Personal Data Storage Expenses
You don’t have to pay anything if you store personal information on your computer’s physical drive. However, you will have to spend some money to benefit from online Cloud storage.
3. Third-party Security Issues
When you subscribe to an online Cloud storage service, you trust your information with a third party. It’s best to read through user comments and reviews before committing to a long-term relationship to ensure the business takes responsible care of your data.
Otherwise, online Cloud storage is an excellent alternative to physical drives. Currently, more businesses are shifting to Cloud storage because of its benefits. At the same time, regular Internet users use the Cloud for quick data access and synchronization between multiple devices.
