In today’s world, it seems no one can function without computers. Our computers are the most crucial piece of technology in our lives. We store everything from the essential documents we need in our daily lives, the music & movies that bring us joy and relaxation, and they can bring back great memories with the pictures we keep on them.
With all that we keep on them on, there is a real need for data storage. Computers may have ample memory, but it isn’t endless. Storing data was always a problem in the business world. In the past vast amounts of paper were stored in file cabinets and company storage rooms, and it took hours to find the data you needed. Modern business brought an end to that with computers and electronic data, but even that data requires space. That is why cloud storage is one of the fastest developing branches of the technology world.
What is Cloud Storage?
At its simplest and most fundamental level, cloud storage means that your data is saved on a group of remote servers in an (often) distant data center. You get your files into the cloud by transferring data from your computer to the data center using your internet connection. Once the transfer is complete, you will then have the option to no longer take up all that space on your computers hard drive but still keep it at your fingertips when you need it. You can access all your information whenever you need it from any computer that has an internet connection from all over the world. Your data is often far safer and better protected in the cloud. All of your files are encrypted by default to provide you the utmost privacy. Cloud storage also brings greater peace of mind that your data is safe from disaster. All major cloud storage providers also have built-in tons of redundancies in their network. This means that your information is totally safe and accessible in case of disasters that may hit your home or offices such as fire or flood.
What to expect
Your data is your most valuable asset. It holds all the information relevant to your work and life. Even if your data does not only take up much space on your computer, it is unsafe to keep it all in one place — your single site. When using an online backup, you are also keeping your data safe. It is not only accessible from every computer that has an internet connection, but it is also automatically saved with new changes you made in it. This means you can update your data, and changes are saved automatically. Some providers may ask you to install some software on your computer to automatically back up your data. Still, some only ask for a good internet connection.
Getting started
If you are wondering how to get started with cloud storage, it is relatively easy and straightforward to do. First, you need to find a provider that will suit your needs. The provider will give you the storage space for making your files safer. Popular providers of cloud storage and online backups include
- Dropbox
- Microsoft Office 365
- Google Apps
- Amazon.
- Backblaze
- Mozy
When you purchase storage from one of the vendors above, your data is kept virtually separated from all the other stored in the data center. The storage space you are buying is yours only. The costs of cloud storage will depend on a few things:
- How much space do you need?
- Do you need help getting the services installed?
- Do you have any specific needs in how the data is stored and protected?
Each provider offers you a few ways to pay, and you should choose one that best suits your needs and your storage goals. While there a many new cloud storage providers every day, it’s essential to pick the right one from the outset. Make sure that the provider you choose has certifications and assurances towards the privacy and security of your data. Choose a provider that has multiple redundant data centers that can rely on in disaster recovery situations. You will also want a provider who is easy to communicate with. Make sure they have excellent technical support and that they are easy to get a hold of in case you ever need them. And most important of all is to make sure there is mutual trust between you and them.
Cloud Storage and online backup is not only the future of the world’s storage needs and problems, but It is also solved the problems of today.
As the need for it continues growing, we will continue to see not just innovation in the space but also lower costs, and increased security. It is almost impossible to meet the needs of today and tomorrow’s market without it.
