Cloud storage is a special virtual storage model for information. The data is stored on multiple servers that are made available to customers. All information is processed in the "cloud", which is a large virtual server for the user.
Cloud data storage is useful for users with multiple devices. For example, if you have one work computer, home laptop and smartphone, the cloud can help you effectively organize the presence of the same files on all devices. In addition, the storage will allow you to unload your computer's hard drive and keep backups of important files.
Synchronizing data in the cloud storage
To synchronize information with all devices, you need to install a special program and write the path to the folders to be placed in the cloud. The program will copy the folders to the storage and will track changes to files in these folders.
When you change or add documents, the program will automatically make changes to the cloud data storage. Conversely, if you make changes to a file in the cloud, the program synchronizes it with the file on your computer.
That is, when several computers or a smartphone are connected to the storage, the current set of documents will be displayed on each of the devices. It is always possible to edit a document on a computer and then open the modified file on a mobile device.
When synchronizing data, errors are not excluded, depending on the operation of the software or the human factor. In order to minimize such errors, it is worth using a cloud storage with a history of file changes. It is very important to wait until the documents are fully synchronized before exiting your computer.
Which cloud storage to choose
The server owner provides free space for information to everyone. Access to the server can be free, paid, or shareware. The most popular are free cloud storage, but they are limited in size. You can increase the volume of the cloud by purchasing a special tariff plan.
Here's a comparison of some of the cloud storage providers offering free storage:
- Cloud Mail. Ru - 100 GB;
- MEGA service - 50 GB;
- Google Disk - 15 GB;
- Yandex. Disk - 10 GB;
- OneDrive - 7 GB;
- Dropbox - 2GB
On some services, the free volume can be significantly increased by sending invitations to friends. Such an opportunity is provided by Yandex. Disk and OneDrive.
It is important to remember that cloud data storage is located on a third-party server and may become unavailable at any time. Important files should not be stored on only one resource, there is a high probability of losing them.
The question of the protection and transmission of confidential data remains open. You cannot store personal information in the cloud storage - for example, intimate photos, passwords to mailboxes or credit card numbers.
