Your newest computer probably came with hard drive storage that put your older PC’s to shame, but there is still a widening market for online file sharing and storage. Not only can you gain more storage space if you store online, but it gives you a chance to backup your files so they’re not lost if your computer crashes or is otherwise compromised.
Sharing and storing files online is an attractive alternative to an external hard drive, since they can be pricey, and they’re a pain when you are traveling. Do your homework before you choose a service to handle your file storage, since you’ll be sending important files to this company to backup and protect.
You have probably lost files at some point in time, whether they were on a flash drive or your hard drive. That’s why it’s beneficial to use a service that offers file backups. Your files can be safely stored on the internet, where you can also access them easily. Determine what your needs are for storage, and test drive any new companies before you sign on, if that option is available.
The features you should look for, from an online file storage and sharing service, will allow you to store, access, upload and share files easily. The better services also offer:
- Drag and drop windows
- Scheduled backups
- Private and public file sharing
- Remote access
- A high level of security, both during transmission and while files are stored
Security is of the utmost importance when you’re planning to store your files online. The file transfers should be encrypted and password-protected. You should be able to get a good deal of storage for an affordable price. The service you select should also be easy to use, without a lot of learning involved in uploading and accessing files.
Even if you’re familiar with online file sharing and storage, you still may have questions, or run into problems now and then. For this reason, the service you choose should have customer support readily available whenever you need them. You may be able to get some answers from FAQ’s and tutorials, but you should also be able to contact customer support through chat, telephone or email.
With many services, you are able to sync any size files online and also on all your connected computers, automatically. Most companies can sync between Windows, Linux and Mac computers, and some will sync files automatically when there are changes in files, or new files added. You can usually share files with only a few mouse clicks.
You can also take advantage of shared folders, which allow more than one person to work on the files in those folders. Changes that others make are visible to you, and you have control over those who can access your shared folders, even if that list changes.
Privacy and security are on the top of the must-have list for any file sharing or file storage service. Your shared folders are only viewable by those whom you invite, and you can discontinue someone’s access if they don’t need the files anymore. Data is transmitted over an SSL encrypted channel, and the stored files are also encrypted.