With more and more information being handled via computers, and more remote working taking place, having a Cloud Storage solution is becoming more and more vital.
What is Cloud Storage?
Cloud storage services allow you to upload your files (often automatically in specific folders on your computer) to an online folder. You can then access these files anywhere remotely by logging into the service website on any computer, phone or tablet.
Many services also allow you to edit basic office documents through the online folder, allowing remote edit of Word or Excel documents from your phone, updating for others to use back at the office.
There are many different Cloud Storage services to choose from, of varying service levels and price points. We’ll go through a few of the more common options below but if you’re considering implementing something we suggest fully researching your requirements before signing up with anyone.
Dropbox
Our first option is Dropbox, which is one of the most user-friendly cloud storage and file-syncing services. You can install Dropbox on virtually any computer or mobile device and dozens of other apps support integration with Dropbox, too. Dropbox Business is aimed at the business and professional market with the option for larger firms to upgrade to Dropbox Enterprise.
Dropbox Business supports real-time collaboration for Office Online users (via Microsoft Office 365 login), so you and your colleagues can access and edit the same Dropbox file at the same time while seeing one another’s changes appear on the screen as they happen.
It includes useful extras such as remote wipe, unlimited file recovery as well as email and telephone support services. You begin with 1 TB (1,000 GB) of storage but can request more once you reach that limit.
Service levels include a basic free version that has limited space but useful for dipping your feet into cloud storage; “Pro” which is great for one or two users with a decent 1TB storage; and “Business” that gives the access for multiple users and larger file space upgrades as required.
Google Drive
Many Gmail, Chrome or Android users may already be familiar with Google Drive. This service works great for those already invested within Google’s other services, as it synchronises with these in the form of apps and makes attachments. There are also some exceptions to your storage limit, files created in Google Docs and Sheets do not count towards your storage, as an encouragement to use more of their services.
Google Drive offers the same services of a low-end free account and gradually stepped upgrades to larger storage. It also has the option of “Google Apps for Work”, which are an office suite that mirrors all of the Microsoft Office functionality, the basic apps are free (such as Docs and Sheets) but have more advanced versions for a surcharge.
Microsoft Onedrive
Mirroring much of the Google Drive functionality but with a full Microsoft operating system integration that allows you to sync entire system settings between different computers and devices, as well as all your files. This is ideal for an individual user who is constantly switching between two locations (such as home and office).
Apple iCloud
A decent product for those using all Apple devices, but has been noted for its frustrating and confusing interface, and lacking some of the capabilities of other Cloud systems.
Size-wise, if you’re on iOS you will find you get more storage for free (although your apps and iDevice backups will count against this), but as you expand the storage it becomes more expensive than other cloud providers.
August 30th, 2016
