The Cloud VS Portable storage devices

What is Cloud based storage?

The cloud is a virtual storage space where you can store all your data. Users can remotely upload, store and retrieve their data whenever they would need it. With the use of Cloud storage, you won’t need to use your own servers to store your data.

How does it work?

The cloud stores information on hosted servers that could be located anywhere around the world, this makes it easy for users to access all their data by signing into their own accounts. Cloud storage generally supports multiple file types, so you can upload and store your documents, photos, music and more. You can use your phone, laptop or any other mobile device to access your data.  

Different types of Cloud based services

There are many different providers of Cloud based services all have their own way of managing your data. A few ideas of options can be found below.

Microsoft (OneDrive) - Dropbox – Google (Google Drive) – Apple (iCloud)

Different types of portable storage devices

There are many types of portable storage devices. These devices can be used to store your data which can be carried around with you and used anywhere.

USB - Hard drives - SD cards

Benefits of cloud and portable storage devices

Cloud

-Your data can be accessed from anywhere at any time from any device, all you need to do is sign into your account.

- if for any reason you need to reset your computer, having your data being synced will prevent you from losing any data. You can re-sync your data to another working computer

- There is a certain level of security layers that come along side cloud storage.

Portable storage device

- A portable storage device is easy to use, just simply plug and play.

- They are portable and can be taken everywhere.

Disadvantages

Cloud

- A very common misconception of the cloud is that your data is being backed up when in fact it is being synced. This means if you delete something from your computer you will also delete it from chosen cloud service.

- You need to have a sufficient internet connection to sync/access your files. (This issue can be fixed by using a personal hotspot)

Portable storage device

- If you lose your storage device you will have lost all your data.  

- Your portable device could become corrupted and stop working which will cause you to lose all your work, unless you have another backup.

- level of security can vary from device.

Conclusion

If you aren’t already, it might be time to start using Cloud storage as this is the easiest and most effective way of having your data exactly wherever you need it. In this case the benefits of cloud storage outweigh the disadvantages.