What is Cloud Storage?

To understand what a cloud storage is, we first need to know what the term “cloud” means. (And it’s definitely not our regular cloud, mind you!)

A cloud is basically a network of servers that you can access through the Internet. 

Therefore, Cloud Storage is a method of storing your data on remote servers located inside large data centers. Your data can be easily accessed online.

Cloud storage is the most popular way of storing data these days. Some common examples might be Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.

How does Cloud Storage Work?

Cloud Storage might look like a complex concept. But, it’s in fact easier than you think. 

Let’s understand the working of a cloud storage step by step.

• A cloud storage company purchases storage space from large data centers.
• This space is allocated to their customers (like you and me) for free or for a price.
• When we upload a file on our cloud vault, it is actually stored on a small portion of the servers located inside data centers. 
• These data centers are protected with heavy security and regular maintenance.
• Reputed cloud storage services offer security features like zero knowledge encryption and two factor authentication for enhanced user security. (But what do these terms mean? Well, keep reading to find out!)

Advantages of Cloud storage ​

Cloud storage provides many advantages over physical storage devices. Let’s check out some of them.

1. Saves Local Space

Cloud Storage lets you upload files on the cloud and delete them from your local storage! This saves up a lot of memory on your device and proves to be a suitable alternative for expensive HDDs.

2. No Maintenance Cost

For businesses organizations, Cloud Storage cuts down the cost of purchasing physical storage devices and employing IT staff for server maintenance, etc.

3. No Technical Knowledge Required

You don’t need any technical know-how to get started with cloud storage. It’s so easy that even a 5-year-old can start using it right away! 

Everything is managed by the cloud service provider. All you need to do is sign up and start uploading your files!

4. Enhanced Security

Because it stores a secondary copy of your data, online storage proves to be a savior in cases of theft or damage of your local device. 

5. Multi Device Access

You can access your cloud vault from anywhere, anytime, and any device. Most cloud providers offer powerful desktop, mobile, and web apps.

6. Scalable

Unlike an external hard disk that is expensive, occupies physical space and has a limited storage capacity, cloud storage is cheaper, takes up no actual space, and its capacity can be expanded or reduced as per your needs!

7. Prevents Data Corruption

Unlike external HDDs where your data is stored locally, cloud storage servers are placed within highly protected data centers with 24/7 security.

Cloud storage uses RAID systems as an efficient backup solution. They keep online backup of your data in different configurations. So, even if a data server crashes, you can still access your files effortlessly.

8. Easy Upload and Download

You can upload your official documents like License, PAN, Aadhaar Card, Marksheets, etc on the cloud and download them whenever required!

If you wish to dive deeper, check out my article on Cloud Storage vs Local Storage.

Disadvantages of Cloud storage ​

1. Fees Charged

You can get small amounts (up to 15 GB) of cloud storage for free. But if you need more space, you have to pay a monthly, yearly, or a lifetime fee to access cloud storage. 

2. Good Internet Required

Cloud storage services do not work offline. You need an active internet connection with good speeds for uploading and downloading your files. In my opinion, a minimum of 2MBps is a must for accessing cloud storage.

3. Data Privacy Concerns

All your data is stored on third party servers. So, before trusting a cloud provider, always check if it uses good encryption standards, has a clean privacy policy, and is not associated with the 5 Eyes Alliance. (Read about it below!)