The Cloud is nothing new. It’s been growing in popularity and an integral part of some businesses infrastructure for some years, but certain businesses still shy away from using it.
What is the cloud?
“In the simplest terms, cloud computing means storing and accessing data and programs over the Internet instead of your computer’s hard drive. The cloud is just a metaphor for the Internet.”
– PCMag.com
What are the benefits?
There are a number of benefits to using the cloud, both for personal use, and for your business. We’ve listed what we see as the main benefits below:
Cost efficiency
Cloud computing is one of the most cost efficient means of data storage available today, to maintain, make use of, and upgrade seamlessly.
Cloud computing space is available at a much cheaper rate than paying for desktop software or even bulky hardrives. Besides, almost all cloud storage providers offer variable size capacity plans, meaning you can quickly upgrade when your storage is getting tight. Using hard drives as an example: a 1TB hard drive could easily set you back between £40-£60. 1TB of cloud computing will cost you around £10 a year, will never break and can be upgraded with no fuss instantly.
Huge amounts of storage
Storing things in the cloud gives you more storage capabilities than you could ever need. You may have to pay a little more, to attain more space, but it is easily done and quick to upgrade. You needn’t worry about running out of space.
Easy backup and recovery
With all your data stored in the cloud, it makes backing it up and restoring it far easier than traditional storage methods. Most worthwhile cloud storage providers are competent enough to handle information recovery.
Software and web integration
The key benefit of the cloud is that it often automatically integrates with software, meaning you don’t need to take extra steps to set up your storage device to your software – it happens naturally.
Ease of access
Cloud storage can be accessed anywhere, as long as the user has login details and an internet connection. This means that whether you’re on any computer in the office, at home, 30,000 feet in the air or on the other side of the world, you can access the necessary files.
What are the disadvantages?
Of course, like almost everything, cloud computing has its downfalls. Although we think the benefits greatly outweigh the disadvantages – it is still worth pointing them out:
Technical issues
Whereas with a hard drive, internal server or filing cabinet, there is very little that can go wrong with regards to losing your data. With cloud computing, you are at the mercy of technical issues. Even the best cloud service providers are prone to outages or malfunctions. Whilst these are very rare, it is still a possibility – if it happens when you need your files the most, it can be a problem. Even something as small as losing internet connection for 30 minutes could render your business useless.
Security
One thing you need to accept when using the cloud is that the data you store is on another company’s server. You are surrendering your data to a third-party provider, and although certain laws protect you from any illegal activity on their behalf, it is always worth bearing in mind before signing up to a provider. Going with a reputable and trustworthy company will put you at ease.
Prone to attack
Storing information in the cloud could make your company vulnerable to external hack attacks and threats. As you are well aware, nothing on the Internet is completely secure and hence, there is always the lurking possibility of stealth of sensitive data.
Choosing the right provider
Choosing the right provider is important, both in terms of price, reliability, security and access. Here’s our pick of the top 5 cloud storage providers available in the UK at an affordable price:
1. Google Drive
With a name you can trust and price that’s hard to beat, google drive allows you to store all the files you need, access them anywhere as well as integrate seamlessly with Google+ photos and Google Docs.
Site link: https://drive.google.com/
2. DropBox
A trustworthy, reputable, name and only of the only cloud storage providers who offer clients for Linux and Blackberry, DropBox like to ensure your data is with you everywhere.
Site link: https://www.dropbox.com/
3. OneDrive
OneDrive (formerly SkyDrive) is provided by Microsoft and allows you to store your data at a reasonable price, along with seamless integration to Microsoft’s online tools like Word and Excel.
Site link: https://onedrive.live.com/
4. Box
Box, often confused with DropBox despite being around for longer, is a wholly capable and feature rich service, although a lot it’s best offerings are only available to paying customers.
Site link: https://www.box.com/
5. iCloud
As a standard cloud storage device, we can’t really recommend iCloud, although for an apple-centric individual or apple heavy company, it is ideal for seamless and fully encompassing storage and sync functionality. Android phones have Google Drive as standard, Apple devices has iCloud.
Site link: https://www.icloud.com/
