Cloud Storage Providers That Keep Your Data Safe and Easily Accessible
Emma Smith | Mon May 01 2023
More and more people are looking to utilize cloud storage to deposit and keep their data remote. With so many different options on the market, it can be hard to know which file hosting service can best fit your needs. Among the most popular data backup applications, there are various pros and cons to be aware of before committing to any one of them.
Since its inception in 2007, cloud storage has become ever more reliable and convenient. Each of the cloud storage applications has its own distinctive characteristics, however, which need to be taken into consideration. Take a look at who the most dependable and safe providers are on the market in 2023 to find out which one will suit you best.
iDrive
For those who are looking for a cloud storage system that is compatible with multiple operating systems, you may find iDrive to be an attractive option. This data backup service works with Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux users alike, and it offers the first 5GB of data for free. They have been touted as ideal for small businesses, however, they also have a lot to offer individual customers as well.
At the moment, they are offering 5TB for $59.62 or a whopping 10 Terabytes worth of data storage for $75 a year, making them one of the best options for those looking to get good value for money. But there are a couple of drawbacks to their services which have left some customers wanting more. They don’t offer a two-factor authentication and their upload speeds can be a bit slower than others.
Microsoft OneDrive
Avid Windows users should definitely look into Microsoft’s OneDrive storage solution, the first 5GB of which are free. It’s available to use for those who use Mac, Android, iOS, Windows Phone and Xbox, but it doesn’t support Linux as of yet. OneDrive works perfectly with the other Microsoft Office programs and provides a seamless experience for those already using Windows, as you can find it easily in File Explorer.
You can purchase the Microsoft 365 Personal storage solution for $69.99 a year which provides you with 1TB of cloud storage, or alternatively purchase a Family storage subscription for up to six people with 1TB each for a reduced price. Essentially, if your already using Windows as your main operating system and you don’t mind paying a little extra, you’re going to want to use OneDrive for it’s ease of use.
Dropbox
Dropbox is responsible for starting cloud storage to begin with, so they’ve been in the game the longest and had the most time to improve upon their storage solutions. They don’t offer much in the way of free storage at only 2TB, but they’re lauded for being easy to use not matter what operating system you prefer.
For individual and personal use, it’s possible to purchase 2TB for $10 a month. If you need cloud storage for family or business use, you’re looking upwards of $15 a month. While it can be one of the pricier options available, its simple interface, accessibility and convenience are well worth the steeper price tag.
Google Drive
Just about everyone uses Google in some way or another. And if you have a Googe account, you automatically have access to 15GB free of charge. If you’re looking for more storage however, Google One might be your best bet. You can get 2TB for $10 a month or $100 a year, or f you’re looking for less storage, you can purchase 100GB for $2 a month or 200GB for $3 a month. You get a small discount, too, if you commit to a year.
Google’s office suite is loved by many, but it also has its drawbacks. Some people complain about having a complicated interface experience, while others believe that more needs to be done about their lack of decent end-to-end encryption. Regardless of some safety concerns, Google Drive is trusted by many for both personal and business use.
As some of the most trusted and used data storage providers, any one of these options should provide you with reliable cloud storage. That being said, there are other options on the market that may be worth exploring. Understanding what iDrive, Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox has to offer and what their limitations are, as well as what your budget is, will help you to make a decision about which data storage solution is best.