Cloud storage and file-sharing platforms enable customers to store data in an offsite location and readily access it from anywhere with an internet connection.
As a result, cloud storage and file-sharing platforms have become popular methods for online file storage and recovery.
Having your most critical information safely stored on file-sharing platforms means you don’t have to worry about your laptop freezing or your external hard drive failing.
Even if your computer is lost or stolen, you may still access your documents and photos online via cloud storage.
Cloud storage access to digital files, correspondence, workflows, and other work-related functions must be simple, intuitive, dependable, and, above all, secure.
The cloud storage technology must also be configured to work on a variety of devices, ranging from smartphones and tablets to desktop computers and laptops.
Here are some crucial factors to consider when determining the best cloud storage and file sharing platforms for your backup requirements and demands.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cloud Storage and File Sharing Platform
1. Security
When selecting a cloud storage service, security is of the utmost importance. To safeguard their data from security risks and attackers, consumers and companies should evaluate the security features provided by each virtual storage service provider.
Before selecting a cloud storage service, it is the user’s obligation to understand how data is transported and kept on the virtual storage server, who may access it, what degree of protection the storage service provider provides, and other security problems.
Make sure you choose a cloud storage service provider that allows you to transport and store data in encrypted form, so your sensitive data is safe from attackers or other threats.
2. Location of Data Storage
The physical location of a virtual storage server may have an impact on backup and recovery performance. As a result, it is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting the best cloud storage service for your backup needs.
If the virtual storage server is located far from your primary location, the data transfer speeds of the cloud storage server may be sluggish.
If your cloud storage server is too close to your primary location, natural calamities such as earthquakes, floods, or power outages might impair your business operations, resulting in data loss, lost time, and lost income.
3. Performance
When looking for the best cloud storage service, it is critical to evaluate performance.
Physical location, response time, processing time, latency, bandwidth, CPU, RAM, infrastructure, underlying cloud storage, the distance between the end-user and virtual storage server, and mechanisms to cope with planned or unplanned downtime are all elements that affect cloud storage service performance.
Some cloud storage services provide varying degrees of performance at varying price points.
As a result, select a cloud storage provider that provides the greatest performance for your backup requirements.
4. File sharing platforms
Most cloud storage services allow you to share your files with others using their file sharing platforms; for example, you might want to share some files with your colleagues.
Some don’t, so think about whether it’s something you’d like to do.
5. Other Application Integration
Before selecting a cloud storage service, be sure it can be readily linked with other apps. Examine whether the cloud storage service offers an application programming interface (API) or a program for integrating with other software applications.
Additionally, ensure that the cloud storage server is compatible with the existing applications in your environment and that the data stored on it is easily accessible via the various operating systems and web browsers used in your organization.
5. Cost
Another important factor to consider when selecting a virtual storage service is price. Most cloud storage services have a free tier, so one may test them out before upgrading to more expensive plans.
As a result, one may test several cloud storage services and select the best service provider.
When comparing the cloud storage costs of different cloud services, you should compare the price per GB of cloud storage space, upload and download costs, and any other hidden costs.
Choose a cloud storage provider that allows you to pay for the virtual storage you use and add/remove services based on your needs.
Best File Sharing Platforms and Best Cloud Storage Solutions
1# Microsoft OneDrive
OneDrive, Windows 10 and Office 365’s default online cloud storage and synchronization service, has more sophisticated features and apps for more file sharing platforms than any of its competitors.
2# IDrive
IDrive is a file-syncing and cloud storage application as well as a complete cloud backup solution.
While its file sharing platform capabilities may be improved, IDrive’s inexpensive per-GB price makes it a good bargain.
3# Google Drive
Google Drive is one of the most user-friendly, feature-rich, and generous best cloud storage solutions and file sharing platforms available, with great productivity and collaboration features.
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4# Dropbox
Dropbox, long a pioneer in cloud storage and file sharing platforms, is lagging behind its competitors, particularly in terms of pricing. It’s still dependable, and one can consider buying.
5# SpiderOak One Backup
SpiderOak One Backup has excellent security features as well as versatile cloud storage choices. It is more expensive than many rivals, but there are no restrictions on pay the number of PCs you can back up with each subscription.
6# Box
Box is a dependable file sharing platform and has hundreds of app connections, but the premium subscription isn’t the best bargain on the market for home customers.
7# Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Amazon Web Services (AWS) provides a variety of cloud storage services. Plans include pay as you go, pay less when you reserve, pay even less per unit by using more, pay even less as AWS expands, and custom pricing.
8# JustCloud
JustCloud has an admin control panel for cloud storage, network drives, access and permission management, geo-redundant storage, file versioning, and hourly backup, among other features.
Conclusion
While there are many cloud storage solutions, you should definitely conduct your research before entrusting any provider with your company’s data.
One can choose Microsoft 365 or a Google Workspace for Business from Exabytes for cloud solutions and enjoy these File sharing platforms with your teams. To find out more, contact us now.
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