Life in the Cloud
Technology has changed our vocabulary and words that we associate them with. Apple and Blackberry are no longer fruits to us but rather known as tech companies in our present day. Windows is a computer software instead of small openings in houses. A cloud is no longer those big, white, fluffy things in the sky but has a whole new definition in the tech industry.
What is the cloud?
The cloud has garnered a whole new meaning aside from the scientific definition, visible mass of condensed water vapour within our atmosphere. Over the last decade the term “cloud” has changed our understanding in the technological aspect. The cloud is a virtual space that acts as storage for our data. Data is stored in remote servers and can be accessed from the internet. Instead of storing data such as pics onto a hard drive, the cloud allows users the accessibility and ease of storing memory onto the internet.
Types of Cloud Storage
- G Suite introduced by Google Cloud is a brand of cloud computing, productivity and collaboration tools. G Suite includes gmail, hangouts, calendar and Google+ in their communication sector. The Drive storage included for users are Docs, sheets, slides, forms and sites. This allows user to be backed up by Google’s Data centres, while data and information is saved and synchronized instantly.
2. Dropbox is a hosting site that offers cloud storage, file synchronization, personal cloud, and client software. This platform allows users to easily store and share documents, pictures, and videos on any device. Giving users the accessibility and ease to view their content anywhere at anytime.
3. Amazon Prime offers users the ease of both shopping and digital storage on their website. Users have unlimited storage for pictures and are able to access their content everywhere. Amazon Drive offers secure online storage, automatic photo backup, and easy access to your saved content from your phone, computer, or tablet. It can be accessed on the web, mobile apps or on a desktop.
Cloud vs Alternate Solutions
Alternate solutions include memory cards, CD’s, USB’s, hard-drives, and disks. This can become problematic as you need to carry around these devices with you constantly for you to be able to access the data. The Cloud is revolutionary as it offers individuals large amounts of storage and ease of use. The alternate solutions carry a limited, fixed amount of storage compared to many of the Cloud platforms having unlimited access to storage.
Benefits of The Cloud
Convenience: The cloud offers users the ease to be able to access their content anywhere. Accessing a file or data can is easy as long as you have a mobile device on you. Carrying an added hard drive with you is a hassle and takes up space in trips. Having access to unlimited storage at your fingertips is useful for when you are out of town.
Backups: Losing data and information can be quite devastating. Precious pictures and moments can be lost anytime. With many of the Cloud platform service offered today, backing up device memory and information can be vital to saving the data that would be lost.
Usability: Most cloud storage services have desktop folders for Mac’s and PC’s which can be used to transfer data easily. Users are able drag and drop files between the cloud storage and their local storage spaces. Cross platform data sharing allows ease anywhere when sharing information.
