Everything You Need to Know About Cloud Storage

No, this isn’t about clouds as we know them. You know, those white cottony masses hovering about the sky. They’re basically condensed water, in case you didn’t know that too. Instead, this article is about cloud storage, a relatively new technology that’s sweeping businesses and consumers by storm. In spite of its rising popularity and increasing use, many don’t know what cloud is or how it works. We’re here to give you a quick and easy guide on everything you need to know about cloud storage.

What is Cloud Storage?

Cloud storage or simply ‘cloud’ is a method of storing digital files. Unlike other methods of data storage, it is a service and not an actual product. Cloud services are delivered by companies through network servers, which can only be accessed online. Physical data storage devices are embedded in computing devices such as computers and smartphones, or are made portable in the form of external memory. This is unique. It allows you to store and access files by connecting to the internet.

How Does Cloud Storage Work?

Cloud storage wouldn’t be possible without a service provider. More often than not, these service providers maintain one or more network servers; that is to say, computer systems used as central repositories of data and programs by users of the same network. ‘Cloud drives’ are accessible through the internet. Once online, you can store files on these network servers via a service provider of your choice. The stored data can then be accessed and downloaded anytime and anywhere.

What Do I Need for Cloud Storage?

The requirements are simple. First you need a cloud-compatible computing device with internet connectivity, like a laptop or a smartphone. Powerful hardware specifications aren’t necessary, but they can be useful for speedy file transfers. Also, you need a secure internet connection, preferably a private network. Ultra-fast speeds aren’t needed, but the larger the files you intend to store in a cloud, the faster your internet should be.

The next step is to sign up with a cloud service provider of your choice. If you’re a business seeking cloud storage solutions, you should be concerned with the security of your data. After setting up an account, you can start using the cloud for data storage.

How Much Does Cloud Cost?

It depends. Most cloud storage providers only charge you upfront for the amount of storage you want to “rent out” for a set amount of time. Usually, it’s on a ‘per gigabyte’ and ‘per month’ basis. Some charge extra fees for additional services which would otherwise be free for most cloud providers. Examples of value-added services are data transfers, copying and deleting files, metadata function, and security features.

By now, you should have a better understanding of what cloud storage is, how it works, how much it costs, and what the basic requirements are for having one of your own. It’s all you need to know about cloud storage if you’re new to it.