This is a guest post by Micah Abrams. Micah is a freelance writer who covers a variety of topics in the technology genre.
The transition to cloud computing and advanced file sharing is ongoing, but also inevitable. This simply means that methods of external storage and file transfer, such as USB drives, CDs, and even external hard drives, are becoming less and less fashionable (not to mention less practical) as cloud storage capabilities become greater and more widespread. From cloud storage built into your devices (such as the iCloud for Apple users), to downloadable programs, there are plenty of options that allow data back up and transfer online.
The trick is choosing which option is best for you, as most cloud computing options offer different services and capabilities. While there are dozens of cloud storage providers, here are a few basic tips regarding some of the more popular cloud providers out there, and who should use them.
Dropbox
Fast becoming the biggest name in cloud storage, Dropbox is a lot of people’s go-to service for quick and easy online file storage and transfer, and to be sure it’s one of the simplest ones out there. With Dropbox, you get 2GB of free storage space for easy personal use on your items. You can share and receive files with friends, and most find the interface easy to use. Those who want simple file storage and transfer (of songs, documents, files you’re using just for fun, etc.) may enjoy Dropbox, but don’t use it for sensitive files.
Google Drive
The simplest way to think of Google Drive is that it’s essentially Dropbox for Google users. This is to say, if you use other Google programs, and Gmail, you’ll find Google Drive easy to use. 5GB of free space allows for the same easy sharing of basic, just-for-fun files, though be particularly careful with sensitive information. Google has the right to read your content, sell information about you, and even create content based on your own once you upload something to Drive.
Citrix ShareFile
ShareFile is a growing name in cloud storage and file sharing, and is a solution for those looking for more secure options, or business-oriented file sharing. There are various packages available (the most basic being $29.95/month for 5GB bandwidth with 2 employee accounts), each designed to provide you with file sharing and storage options equipped with the highest security. This is a service meant primarily for companies, but is also useful for small businesses looking to grow or expand online practices. Sharefile offers unique control and management of online sharing between employees and clients.
Box
Box.net is another option primarily for business environments, and offers the clear benefit of up to 1000 GB storage for $150/year. There are some security concerns however. Most notably, sensitive data that is uploaded into your Box account cannot also be stored securely on site, which means you may be sacrificing some security for the sake of convenience and storage.
These are just 4 of many cloud computing solutions, but it provides some idea for what to look for based on your own needs or those of your business.