Cloud storage has become a popular method to keep your files away from the computer. Some people have laptops like MacBooks that are not the best when it comes to available drive space. And when you are stuck with just a few gigabytes of free storage, it becomes a hindrance to the overall computer laptop performance.
Meanwhile, services like iCloud and Dropbox offer an alternative way to manage data and free up your computer’s space. In fact, it is not just computers. You can also transfer files to clouds from other devices, like smartphones and tablets.
On the other hand, cloud storage is no different from other technology in the sense that it has both advantages and disadvantages. Some people may be on the fence about transferring their data to Dropbox or iCloud because they lack the information.
Let’s dive into the topic of the pros and cons of cloud storage. The details below should come in handy for those who want to get a better grasp on cloud storage.
Advantages
1. Simplicity
The user interface for most cloud services is simple to grasp. The drag-and-drop feature allows you to upload files directly from your computer into the cloud folder by dragging the data and dropping it on the cloud.
The process is a bit trickier on a smartphone and tablet because you do not have a mouse, but dragging and dropping files using your fingers on a touchscreen should not be an issue either, right?
2. Security
If there is one thing cloud storage excels in, it has to be security. Apple, Google, and other developers understand the importance of providing their users with security. After all, it is not just individuals that store files on clouds, but big businesses. And if something were to happen to that data, the consequences would be pretty significant.
There are multiple layers of backup servers in addition to the main hub, so even if something happens to one of the servers, there is no need to worry.
3. Efficiency
If you have a decent internet connection, it should not take too long to transfer data from your device to cloud storage.
According to this article, if you have a poorly performing MacBook, freeing up the drive’s space is one of the most effective methods to boost the laptop’s speed. And cloud storage is a location where you can transfer some of the computer data.
Businesses that use cloud storage also do not have to invest in developing their own system. Instead, they can use the resources to improve other areas, like marketing or PR.
4. Convenience
Another great thing about cloud storage is how convenient it is to share files among peers, as mentioned on goodcloudstorage.net. If your coworker cannot send a file via email because the file is too large, they can instead upload it to iCloud or Dropbox. From there, you can check the cloud folders and download the files you need.
Another example of convenience is creating a cloud storage upload form on a WordPress website. If there are multiple people working on developing a WP site, they can upload relevant files directly on the platform and manage the contents without needing to use a separate tab for Dropbox or another cloud service.
5. Synchronization
If you wish, you can synchronize your cloud accounts with multiple devices and access data from not just your computer but a smartphone or a tablet.
There may be an instance when you have your smartphone but get a call from work. To answer the question, you would need to look in the cloud for a relevant document. And having your smartphone synced would solve the issue.
On the other hand, if you do not have a cloud account synced on your smartphone, you would need to go home or to the office to access the computer.
6. Scalability
Cloud services provide multiple storage plans. If you run out of available space, you can upgrade your plan for an extra monthly fee. For instance, Apple offers iCloud users three options:
- 50GB for a dollar
- 200GB for three dollars
- 2TB for ten dollars
Disadvantages
1. Internet Dependence
Perhaps the biggest disadvantage of clouds is that you need an internet connection to access the files. If there are internet problems, you will not access the files. Not to mention that uploading or downloading files with a poor internet could corrupt some data.
2. Data Privacy
Despite its security, some cloud service providers still lack data privacy policies. The odds of data leaks are relatively small, but they still occur now and then.
3. Expensiveness
Paying a monthly fee can be quite expensive, especially if you are an individual rather than a business. Some people would say that getting an external hard drive is better than using cloud storage.