Do you want an easier way to back-up your documents and photos without needing to take up extra storage space? Then you’ll want to consider storing pictures in the Cloud as well as your files.
First invented in the 1960s, cloud computing has enabled the separation of data and hardware. Once you upload your data to the Cloud, you’re able to access it from any device, anywhere. However, it’s important to know a few rules of thumb so that you can make cloud storage work for you.
Read on for our simple guide on the best cloud storage tips as well as more information to get you started!
What is Cloud Storage?
It first helps to know a little bit about how cloud storage works. Simply put, it allows you to store any kind of data on the Internet via multiple servers. If you want to access that data, you’ll have to be online. One of the main benefits of the Cloud is that you’ll be able to access your data no matter where you are and on any device.
This is beneficial for personal use as well as commercial applications. Multiple employees are able to access the same file in real-time without waiting for emails or long download speeds. Cloud solutions are also scalable, meaning that you don’t have to break the bank if your business is still small and growing.
Cloud Storage Basics
Now that you know a little about cloud storage and its benefits, it’s important to know some best practices so that you can make cloud storage work for you. The best cloud storage solution won’t be beneficial if you don’t know how to use it! Here are some of our top recommendations:
1. Keep Backing Up Your Data
Since cloud storage’s main benefit is backing up your data, it’s important that you upload your files to the Cloud regularly. Hardware problems, power surges, or other cataclysmic damage can’t be predicted. When this happens, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that even if your computer isn’t able to be repaired, all of your files are still safe in the Cloud.
However, this isn’t possible if you’re not regularly updating your data and making sure that everything is relevant. Create a schedule on your calendar or automate your computer back-ups. CrashPlan and other server backup software are able to do the work for you by backing up your entire hard drive regularly to the Cloud.
2. Pay-As-You-Use
It’s important to remember that if you’re a sole proprietor or own a small business, you don’t have to pay hundreds of dollars a month in order to access cloud storage. Some options like Google Drive or Dropbox are even free before you hit a certain threshold.
One of the best parts about cloud storage is that you only have to pay for more storage you grow. Even if you unexpectedly need to store more data, many plans are flexible and allow you to pay for more storage on the spot.
3. Remaining Compliant
Cloud compliance can be an issue if you’re handling sensitive data that’s then stored on multiple servers throughout the world. For this reason, it’s important for any organization to be completely aware of these details with their cloud provider:
- What type of data you should upload
- How is the provider going to protect the data
- How they’re going to back-up your data
- How you can audit their security framework
Remember to classify your data and ensure that not all of it is being kept in the cloud, as some types of data are better to be kept internally for greater security. Take your time when trying to find a cloud provider and make sure they’re reputable!
4. Encourage Collaboration
Another prominent benefit of cloud computing is that it can encourage collaboration between all of your employees, even if some are working from home and some are in the office. The reason for this is because they have an easy, centralized area in order to access documents even as they’re edited and updated.
For this reason, make sure to continue encouraging collaboration by ensuring that everyone understands how to access the Cloud. You can do this by creating a document of all the processes and steps to go through or tasking one employee to enforce your policies.
5. Consider a Multi-Cloud Setup
A multi-cloud setup can be beneficial if you’re looking to save some money. For instance, Google Drive and Amazon services are great free options for cloud photo storage or files that don’t need to be updated regularly. There are also cloud services that back-up your entire computer on a weekly or monthly basis in the case of hardware failure.
By using multiple services, you’ll be able to ensure that all your bases are covered in terms of file management without breaking the bank. However, it’s important to keep track of and manage all these services closely so that you’re not paying extra for redundancies.
Learning the Best Cloud Storage Tips
Learning these best cloud storage tips is important if you want to utilize the Cloud in the most efficient way. For instance, you’ll need to remember to use multiple cloud services in order to keep your computer automatically backed up each week or month.
If you’re a growing business, however, there are plenty of free options that help you save money and give you the cloud storage you need. As you grow and retain more clients, you’ll be able to pay for more storage without over-spending.
Before you switch to the Cloud, it’s important that all your files are formatted the right way for easy access. Check out our free online file conversion tool today to speed up your workflow even further!