Many are asking what is cloud backup and how can it benefit them? Cloud backup is a service that exists on the internet that allows you to backup important files and data. So the next logical question should be:
What is the cloud?
The cloud is a large arrangement of computers across the internet (essentially the world) that allow users the ability to use programs, hard drive space, and hardware such as larger processors that they would not ordinarily have available to them.
There are many ways that providers can offer all of these resources and tap into other companies resources and provide them to you, the end user. All of these resources are accessed almost entirely through the internet.
Why is it called the cloud?
One explanation that has been given has to do with drawings. When planning large scale operations involving computer systems and networking engineers use drawings for planning and presentation. Many times when the engineers would use services that involved many different servers (large scale computers) and the services they provide often would be grouped into a drawing within a drawing of a cloud. This is because the actual function of the grouping didn’t matter, just the end result.
Examples of cloud computing
Just about any service that you use through a internet browser such as Internet Explorer
Backup in the cloud
Why use the cloud?
The biggest benefit to backup on the cloud is the costs that belong to owning larger software and hardware is shared and therefore less to the user. Additionally with less needed on your personal computer the lower the costs associated with your next pc or laptop purchase.
Since the backup is in a different location than you and often times has multiple backups itself, you don’t have to stress over the safety of that external hard drive, or collection of DVDs, or flash drive. Come a catastrophe you can be up and running in short order once things are back to relative normal.
What can be backed up to the cloud?
Just about anything you have on your hard drive. Spreadsheets, scanned documents, backups of your Quicken accounts, personal pictures and movies. Most providers won’t allow you to back up your operating system and applications like Quicken, MS Office, etc.
Who is the cloud for?
Honestly, when talking about backing up online, anyone with a laptop or desktop computer. Teachers, accountants, photographers, writers, moms and dads all can benefit.
Difference between cloud backup service and online backup service?
When you hear the term cloud backup service typically this refers to backup for large operations such as business servers. Although they are essentially the same an online backup service is typically geared for individual and small business backup solutions on the cloud.
Who provides backup to the cloud?
The two biggest and most popular companies for personal use currently are Mozy and Carbonite. Both are simple to implement and are relatively inexpensive. Both run about $5 per month on $60 per year.
How safe is the cloud?
Security has to be a concern for anyone using the internet. Most (if not all) companies will provide encryption during the transfer and further encryption upon storage. This dual layer protection gives an almost impenetrable level of security for your files.
