Cloud Services

Cloud services, or “The Cloud,” refers to data storage hosted by a company that provides data storage to you for free or a paid price. These companies take the responsibility for the hard drives and data space.  Examples of cloud services include Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive.

Cloud Services are a good alternative or addition to traditional hard drives and flash drives. One advantage of this technology is that you can access the data from a browser, desktop app, phone, or more from just about anywhere that has an Internet connection. Many Cloud Services provide users with plenty of free space that makes it relatively unneeded for flash drives or other portable media.

Many Cloud Services have been in the news for data breaches. It is hard to tell if your account was included in that or not. The best thing to do is to not store personal information where others may be able to access it. Another way to protect yourself is to use an encryption software for folders or files and store the sensitive information that way. These services require an internet connection for uploading documents and downloading to read and view the items.