Cloud storage has received attention in recent years as a new way to save files. When the idea came out, it was interesting how one can save files without a physical hardware. But as interesting as it is, doubts still exist in the mind of many – why should I give up my hard drives or at least support it with cloud storage?
For people who are still unsure, here’s a comparison of the uses and functions of the two:
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Means of access
Since hard drives and flash drives are physical storage devices, of course, your storage has to be with you to access your files. If you happen to leave it or lose it, you won’t be able to access it when you need it.
With cloud storage, you can access it on any computer or mobile device provided you have internet access. Just use a web browser or a cloud storage app, and go into your account, and you can begin downloading, viewing, editing, uploading, or syncing.
However, cloud storage is in fact reliant on internet, unlike hard drives. So in the absence of internet, your data is inaccessible.
Flexibility
How much files do you have? How big are these files? In a span of months to a year, for sure your consumption of storage space increases. In no time, your hard drive’s storage will fill up and you have to buy a new one. And you don’t get a hard drive for free. With cloud, there’s a free storage upon signing up and you just pay when you need more space.
Also, instead of having a multitude of storage devices, cloud storage is a more seamless solution. It allows you to expand your storage space when you need it.
Security
How confidential is your data? If you lose your storage device, or if it gets corrupted, your files are all gone. With cloud storage, there’s very little chance to lose your files as long as you have your account information with you and your service provider has a secure network.
If you happen to lose your mobile device or laptop with your cloud storage account, you can simply login through another computer and even change your password.
Today, there are already plenty of cloud storage services to choose from. And the perfect fit will always depend on the users’ operating system and needed space and features.
