Archives for December 2013

How do you protect your files? It’s something I think about all the time, and I kind of need to get up to speed on the latest and greatest. As a matter of fact, I just backed up my blog to my computer and the file is almost 500 MB!! I need to guard it with my life!

So today, I bring you this informative and interesting guest post by Kyle Mercer written exclusively for my readers!

It seems that in the past few years, cloud storage has shifted from being a new, trendy technological concept to a widely implemented tool used by companies across the board. We hear more about cloud storage just about every day and for those who haven’t “dived in” yet, the specifics can be a bit confusing.

The basic concept, actually, is rather simple: Essentially, cloud storage allows you to save digital data on your “cloud,” rather than on a specific device such as an iPhone, desktop computer, tablet, etc… And the benefits of doing so are numerous: Your data is accessible from any device with an internet connection (just log into your cloud account); your saved files are safe from technical errors (or loss or theft) that can occur with devices; and you will enjoy more digital storage space. Naturally these perks can be handy for innumerable practices, businesses, and hobbies including digital photography.

But where it gets trickier for those starting off in cloud computing is picking a specific provider. There are now a number of very capable mainstream providers on the market, each offering some unique features and benefits. So to help in your decision-making process, here’s a brief comparison of some of the top cloud providers.

Dropbox

Arguably the biggest name in cloud storage, Dropbox is seen as a very simple, easy option for individual or small group use. The free package gets you 2 GB of storage space, and people love the user-friendly system that includes a handy mobile app and the unlimited file size uploading ability. You can get more storage at various pricing levels.

iCloud

The cloud that comes with new Apple products is very simple, but very handy. Basically, it’s built-in cloud storage on your Apple computer, tablet, phone, etc…, and it offers 5 GB of storage with no additional priced options.

Citrix Sharefile

In some ways a more advanced option, Sharefile is typically meant more for business environments than personal use. That being said, it can definitely be useful for your own small business. There is no free option offered. Instead, for $30/month, you can set up two users with 5 GB of total storage space and there are higher-tiered options beyond this starting point. The benefits of Sharefile are in its top-of-the-line security and organization.

Google Drive

To some extent, this is Google’s version of iCloud. The Google Drive offers 5 GB of free storage space, though it does have paid options for more storage. The main perk of Google Drive resides in its organization and integration with existing contacts lists, calendars, etc…, for those who tend to use Google products and programs.

Ultimately, these are just a few of many options that exist to satisfy your cloud needs and desires. But with the concept of cloud computing becoming an everyday reality, it only makes sense to get comfortable with one that sounds like a good fit for your use.

This is a guest post by Kyle Mercer. Kyle is a freelance writer and tech enthusiast who frequently covers new releases in gadgets, software and programs.