Cloud storage came, relatively recently, on to the computing scene as a means by which companies and individuals can store or backup files in their computers and mobile devices on an online server. Over time, the number of files and documents in a computer keep growing until they reach a point where there's simply not enough space to contain them all. A solution is then needed to store files in a separate location so as to free up computer space, as well as allow for more files to be acquired.
One solution is to begin storing files on an external or portable hard drive. While this may work for some, companies and individuals with terabytes of data would quickly fill an external drive and find themselves back where they started; they need more. This is where a cloud storage service comes in.
The word cloud is a metaphor for the internet or the online world. Cloud storage works as a combination of an online backup or storage service and cloud computing for data management. Information is stored in what can be viewed as a warehouse full of computers called server farms or data centers. Data centers can be located anywhere in the world depending on your storage provider. Most cloud storage services ensure the safety and privacy of your files by encrypting the data so that it is not intercepted and read by malicious third parties.
For a relatively low monthly fee, users can store all their files on a secure online location and never worry about having to find space. Files can be uploaded and downloaded with ease. They are safe, secure and can be accessed, by you and anyone authorized by you, from anywhere at any time via any computer or mobile device using a web browser. Such services can even automatically back up and sync files on any device without any extra effort on the part of the user.
In addition to providing space, cloud storage can serve as means by which to protect your files and data from computer failure, theft or any other type of event that may cause your valuable information to be lost forever. Having your data online will also give you the ability to share some or all of it with friends, family, or co-workers. All you'd need to do is send them a link, or log in details, and they'll be able to access it.
