Cloud Storage

Cloud Storage

1. Key Terms

   • Downloading
     • When you download a document or file, you can use it without accessing the internet
   • Uploaded
     • When you upload a document it means you (and others) can access it if you are connected to the internet.
   • Servers
     • A computer that deals with many processing requests and delivering data between other computers on the same LAN.
   • Synchronise
     • When files on two devices are updated to make sure both have the same content and are seeing the same thing.

2. What is Cloud Storage?

   • Cloud storage is when files are created on a computer and can be stored or managed remotely.
   • Files are stored on servers so they can be accessed using the internet.
   • When you want to access the data, it can be downloaded or streamed to the device.
     • It remains on the file in the cloud unless you delete it.
   • You can upload data to the cloud.

3. Features and usage

   • Internet service providers often give users a cloud storage as part of their contract
   • Users can then pay for more storage or less if they don't need it.
     • This is an example of scalability.
   • The alternative is using a service provided by third parties.
   • Cloud storage is useful for storing backups of your files.
     • Copies of your files are made on different servers so they are protected if attacked or a fire or flood.
   • You can also synchronise with the cloud. For example, if I take a photo on my phone it gets sent to the cloud and my brothers IPAD.

4. Scalability

   • Users have the option to change the amount of storage that can access and use.
   • For example, if I needed more space I could always just buy more. Or if I bought more then later decided I don't need it I can change it to need less.

5. When Is Cloud Storage available?

   • Has to be an internet connection.
   • If connection to the internet is broken whilst accessing the cloud, access will be terminated.
   • The speed of the connection will impact the speed of downloading, uploading or streaming.

6. Storage in other countries

   • Your data is stored under the GDPR ( General Data Protection Regulations ).
   • The US & the EU have an arrangement called the Privacy Shield which protects your data if it is being stored in the US
   • The EU released a list of countries it considers safe to protect your data.

7. How does it help the user

   • It can be accessed from anywhere, anytime - If you have internet connection.
   • It can be accessed by anyone with the username & password.
   • Scalable

8. Advantages and disadvantages

   • Advantage: Data can be accessed from anywhere, anytime.
   • Disadvantage: Need an internet connection.
   • Disadvantage: Storage can be expensive
   • Disadvantage: No control as to where or how your data is stored. (Purely trust)
   • Advantage: Scalable so you can change your needs accordingly.
   • Advantage: Data & security are managed by the provider.