When it comes to storing large amounts of files outside of a computer’s hard drive, there are two main technologies available to achieve this – External hard drives and cloud storage services. External drives have been available for quite some time, gaining in popularity for being able to hold as much data as an internal hard drive. In recent years, cloud storage has become an increasingly used method of storing data externally, with the benefit of being able to access files anywhere. Both are still viable options for storing data, so what is the difference between these two technologies?
Large Storage Capacity
If a user is going to quickly need access to a large amount of storage space, external hard drives could be the route to go. Affordable external hard drives can be purchased, containing a storage capacity of 1 terabyte or more. 1 terabyte is large enough to back up users entire internal hard drives. In order to find a cloud service with the same amount of space or more, a user needs to pay a monthly fee.
Smart Connectivity
When accessing files on an external drive, users need to have that drive directly connected to their device. This is not as convenient as cloud storage, offering the capabilities to access files from any device that can connect to the internet. Whether a user is on the move with only their smart phone or at home with a tablet, all of the files stored in a cloud storage account are available instantly.
File and Data Sharing
People enjoy being able to share files with their friends and businesses can cut costs, by using cloud computing. Cloud storage makes sharing files easy and secure. The only item required is the sharing of an access code or link. Once someone receives access to a file or folder, they will have immediate access. Allowing instant file sharing is not an option for external hard drives.
Security and Safety
In general, the only way for someone to access files that are on a hard disk is if that drive is physically connected to their computer. Due to the fact that cloud storage is an online service, there is the slim chance that others can hack into a cloud account and have access to the files stored in it. For a business, this puts them in a vulnerable position, the stealing of data can cost a company large sums of money. Cloud storage companies do everything they can to prevent theft or hacking, though there is that small chance. This risk is minimal when using an external hard drive.
Cloud Storage versus External Hard Drives- Final Thought
For businesses that handle a small amount of confidential data, the security of using an external hard drive could be the best choice. However, if a business is going to store huge amounts of data, cloud storage is a very affordable alternative. For home users, being able to share files at a low cost makes cloud storage a likely choice.