Almost each of us has access to files on our computer that are not directly located on our device. We can exchange information, work on documents together and transfer files in seconds, from anywhere in the world. All this is possible thanks to the Internet cloud.
What is cloud computing?
The Internet cloud is a portable disk, it has similar functions to a pendrive, but it is in a virtual form. It allows users to store, update, share and share digital files in one place. Online cloud providers allow you to store data such as text files, media, and software. This data is stored remotely on the operator's server. To use the cloud, you only need internet access.
The most popular applications for storing data in the Internet cloud
If we want to store data in the cloud, we can choose free or paid solutions. Free applications are a good choice for private purposes when we do not need a lot of space, because after uploading several files we may reach the limit. What are the most popular cloud storage applications?
- Google Drive – Google's virtual drive is the most popular data storage application. Each Google account owner receives 15 GB of cloud storage. If you need a disk with a larger capacity, you can choose from 3 available subscriptions.
- OneDrive – this option offered by Microsoft is compatible with the MS Office suite. Each person who creates a user account receives 5GB of memory for free. If you need more space, you can purchase one of the available packages.
- iCloud – is an online cloud offered by Apple. This is a paid service, the cheapest package includes 50 GB of memory for about PLN 4.
- Dropbox is one of the most popular services offering virtual drives. There are 2 individual packages and packages for companies.
- Comarch IBARD – is a Polish internet cloud addressed to companies.
See also: What is cloud computing?
Advantages of the Internet cloud
The Internet cloud is a perfect solution for people and companies that want to have access to their files and information from anywhere in the world. Using cloud services allows users to store and synchronize information in one secure place. Using online clouds has many advantages, such as:
- Access to data on various devices, anytime and anywhere;
- Cost reduction – solutions available in the cloud minimize the costs of purchasing IT infrastructure. Moving from your own resources to the cloud reduces the costs that companies incur by maintaining their servers;
- Stability and security;
- Automatic data backup;
- Freely share data regardless of location;
- Easier and more effective collaboration.
Disadvantages of the Internet cloud
While the cloud offers many benefits, we also need to be aware of its disadvantages. Belong to them:
- Network interruptions - access to the cloud requires a good Internet connection, and network failures may lead to interruptions in the operation of systems;
- Varied level of data security – depending on the provider,
- Data privacy issues – using the cloud means the servers you use do not belong to you;
- Supplier lock-in;
How to use the Internet cloud in your company?
The Internet cloud can be used in a company in several ways. The first way is to store files in the cloud by all employees, thanks to which each of them will have access to documents regardless of the equipment they work on.
Another way is to use the Internet cloud to backup data , by storing them on the disk we will have access to our files even in the event of a failure.
The third option for using the Internet cloud is to use disk space to run programs.
Cloud hosting is also a popular solution. This solution makes it easier to share information via e-mail, application hosting, online telephone systems and data storage, among others.
