Online Data Backup With No Worries
Online cloud data backup services can provide your business with the ability to access your files from anywhere, collaborate effortlessly and create secure backups at anytime. The cloud’s popularity has caused it to explode with data since its inception — currently there are more than one billion gigabytes of data stored in cloud data services, according to Neowin. Some cloud data storage providers offer much more with their services than others, so in order to get the most for your money, you’ve got to do your due diligence. Ask the following questions before choosing your cloud data storage provider:
What Is Its Purpose?
One of the first things you should ask is what the primary use for your cloud data storage provider’s system. Some cloud services, like Dropbox, are primarily designed to serve as a backup system for important files. Others, like Google Drive, are built around the concept of collaboration. This should always be your first question, as it helps you narrow down your choices and find the cloud service that is right for your purposes. Once you have a clear idea of what kind of data storage service is right for you, research the appropriate providers on Top 10 Cloud Storage and compare their services. By comparing the services of similar providers, you can find the option that best matches your needs, whether for personal or business use.
What Kind of Security?
If you are storing sensitive information, it’s critical that you ask your potential cloud data storage service about its security measures. Learn about its encryption for both data being uploaded and data that is being stored on its servers. Additionally, find out what kind of privacy and administration controls the company has so the wrong person can’t access your data simply by asking. While much of the cloud is secure, no one is beyond the reach of cyber criminals. CloudTech reports that cyber criminals breached JP Morgan Chase servers and compromised more than 83 million records for use in identity theft scams. Make sure your provider is doing everything in its power to protect your data.
What Are You Storing?
Check in with potential cloud storage providers to see what exactly is stored on their servers. Is it just your files, or does it include application and user data? Are your applications run on your computer, or are they run in the cloud? If you are also looking for cloud computing, this last part is especially important. If not, you may be paying for services that you aren’t actually using. Find out exactly what you share with your data storage company because it may turn out to be far more than you initially thought it would be.
Can It Meet Your Recovery Needs?
If you plan on using your cloud data storage for recovery and backup, find out how quickly your provider enables you to access your recovery files if there is a problem. If your service provider offers automatic updates of your files as you change them, be sure to ask if they save an earlier version so you can backtrack if there is a problem in your current version of a document. Mistakes happen, and you don’t want to be stuck with a file you can’t use if you make a mistake.
