The market for cloud storage services increases every day, as more businesses look for ways to increase productivity, lower their carbon footprint, and lower costs. This trend doesn’t end with businesses, as home users too have begun to see the advantage of cloud storage. With cloud storage servers, users can save their data online, rather than using on-site servers or hard drives. This trend will continue to grow, and more cloud storage companies will be formed, so what should you be looking for when finding a cloud storage solution?
Rates and Storage Space
For the average business, storage space and pricing will not be an issue, as the prices for unlimited storage rarely cost more than $20 a month. Though, for the home user, $20 a month for a service like cloud storage may be costly. If you are a home user, search around online and you should be able to find a provider in your price range.
Cloud Computing Features
Cloud storage service companies will have a variety of features to help entice customers. This is where cloud storage services will vary the most, available features. Some may offer services such as: file and folder sharing, file size limitations, restoring deleted files, automated file backups and many others. When selecting a cloud storage service, try to find a company that has a large amount of features.
Method of Access
The majority of cloud providers allow access to a user’s data through a personal computer or laptop, while others may also offer mobile compatibility. Even with many services offering mobile support, they may only have support for one type of mobile device, for example: only android devices or only IOS devices. Depending on you or your business needs, this could be a factor in deciding on a cloud storage service; requiring access to a computer or laptop wherever you go could be a hassle.
Encrypted Files for Added Security
Businesses and individuals that use cloud storage as their main method of storing data will have a lot of files being transferred and accessed through the internet. This makes security of those files even more important. Most cloud storage services provide a certain type of file encryption when transferring files, with some even offering ways to encrypt data so that only you can see them. When checking the features available with a cloud storage service, look for a provider that has an SSL certificate.
Technical Support
When a software or technical issue arises, being able to get operations running again is extremely important in the business world. This is why finding a provider that offers a full range of technical support is important. Search online and do a little research on the providers you are interested in, and look for comments concerning technical support. Attempt to find out if others have had issues with the technical support as well as the scope the technical support provide. Some providers have features such as online chat, video tutorials, and help forums.