Is Online Data Storage Worth the Money?


With the internet growing, it is of no surprise that online data storage is becoming popular. There are many people benefitting from this and for many reasons. However, there are downsides that you also need to be aware of.

Backup Everything

The main advantage to Cloud storage is that you can backup your whole computer. This is something that you should do, whether you work on it or just have it for personal reasons. There are a lot of items that you will have stored on a computer, including personal photographs and videos that will never be gained back. Backing everything up is extremely easy to do with this form of online storage and even a non-technical person will be able to do it.

The backup is done somewhere other than in your own home or office, which is also beneficial. If you back everything up on hard drives and memory sticks, there are high chances that you keep them close to the computer. The problem with this is that if something happens to the home or office, like a fire, you will lose everything – including your backups. By opting for online storage, everything is placed somewhere else, so it will not become damaged if something happens to your home or office.

Access Anywhere and at Any Time

You will also be able to access the work, documents or files anywhere that there is an internet connection. This makes it possible to work on the way to the office or even while you are in the college library without your PC. Everything is stored online and can easily be updated at any point. You will also be able to access it if you just want to share the files or pictures with friends.

This also benefits businesses that have offices around the country or the world. Anybody will be able to access the same documents and make any amendments needed. This is also suitable for those that have employees who work from home. In fact, it makes it easier for businesses that have home-based employees, since the documents can easily be shared and updated online. This cuts the costs down for businesses, since part-time employees are not needed.

You will gain a username and password for the account so only you and those you share that with will be able to access the documents. This helps businesses that have sensitive information. Of course, there are still some problems with this, such as hackers – the common password rules will apply to this.

Different Types of Packages

Another benefit is the cost. There are many different types of storage available because there are so many different companies. This means that there is something for everyone, whether you are a student, employer or just want something for personal use. There are free online storage options, which will be beneficial for students, managed options to help those who are not technical and large storage options for businesses.

Need a Strong Internet Connection

However, there are some disadvantages to the use of Cloud storage. The main problem is the fact that everything is online. It makes it essential to have an internet connection, which is not always possible. There is not always a free Wi-Fi connection available on trains and then this is often too slow to run the storage needs. Mobile internet is not enough to run the storage, which means the documents and files cannot be used from cell phones.

Can’t Get Away from Work

It is often harder for employers or employees to take a break from work. “Being away from the office” is no longer an excuse and it can often mean employees have to work from home a few days a week instead of opting for part-time work. There are also times when employees will need to access the documents even though it is their day off. Of course, this depends on the company but online storage makes this possible.

A Third Party Is Storing Information

There are chances that the company will go bust – the storage company, that is. This will have a direct impact on you. Either the company will lose everything and so you will lose your backup, or the company will be bought out. While being bought out means your documents are safe, it will still have an impact. You may need to pay more for your basic storage, your limits may be cut down or your discounts may not be honored.

Online data storage is a popular option and there are a number of benefits. However, it is worth shopping around for the best company to go through. This will help you get the best value for money and the best price.

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