The Cloud: Storage for a New Generation
Cloud storage is a computing model where data is stored on remote servers accessed from the Internet, or “cloud.” The data is managed and can be, backed up remotely and made available to users over a network via a cloud storage service provider on storage servers built on virtualization techniques. In English, this means that essentially all of the data chosen to be saved is backed up and saved over a network, and can be accessed or recovered from multiple different devices. Techopedia As a metaphor, “the cloud” simply represents vast, distant clusters that we may not be able to interact with physically, yet which still affect us such as a cloud. Though we can’t interact with a cloud the rain from the cloud will affect us. DigiTrends
Types of Cloud Storage Software’s
There are generally three basic types of cloud data storage: personal, public, and hybrid cloud storage, but there is a plethora of different brands. A few of the most popular names include:
- Dropbox
- Google Drive
- Foldershare
- Apple iCloud
Cloud vs Alternate Solutions
In my opinion “the cloud” wins against any alternative solutuions. Alternative solutions to cloud storage include devices such as a memory card, a USB, CD's, and Disks. Unlike these devices the cloud doesn’t need to be carried around psychically. This is seen as an advantage for cloud storage because the saved data can be entered fairly easier with just a username and a password with no need to physically carry your storage around. Carrying around storage, a USB for example, puts your data at risk to be lost and accessed by others. The storage not being physical helps to keep saved data private and secure.
More About Cloud Storage
There are hundreds of different cloud storage systems. Some have a very specific focus, such as storing Web e-mail messages or digital pictures. While others are available to store all forms of digital data. Some cloud storage systems aren’t big operations, and others are so big that the physical equipment can fill up an entire warehouse. The facilities that house cloud storage systems are called data centers.
