5 Best Cloud Storage Solutions

We look at the key features offered by the five popular online storage solutions and find out how they differ from each other

In place of the traditional technique of storing backups on an external hard drive, an increasingly popular remedy is to use an online backup service that saves the data on servers in the cloud. You don’t need any extra hardware and once it’s been set up, the system can automatically do the deed when the computer is idle. Here are 5 best cloud storage solutions for an organization.

1. Dropbox

Dropbox is one of the most popular cloud storage solutions available. You can store, share and sync data across all devices via the Dropbox app or the Dropbox website. Also, you can access your files anywhere, from desktop computers to laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Those who sign up can download the Dropbox app to get started. Users get 2 GB of free storage, file sharing and syncing and security features like SSL encryption, two-step authentication, and mobile passcodes. For more storage, Dropbox offers paid subscriptions starting at 100 GB for $9.99 a month per user. A business account with unlimited storage is also available for $15 a month per user, which includes enhanced security, team management tools, and priority email and phone support.

Free Storage Capacity: 2 GB

Website: www.dropbox.com

2. Google Drive

Google Drive offers 15 GB of free cloud storage as well as access to Google’s Web-based productivity suite. Users can save, edit and invite others to work on Docs, Sheets and Slides (Google’s versions of Microsoft Office’s Word, Excel and PowerPoint, respectively) right on Google Drive itself. Additional storage can be purchased for a monthly subscription, starting at $4.99 for 100 GB.

Free Storage Capacity: 15 GB

Website: drive.google.com

3. ADrive

ADrive delivers online cloud storage services to millions of individuals, businesses, and enterprise-level users. ADrive offers the ability to transfer files using SCP, SFTP or Rsync over SSH using any standard clients, Android and iOS mobile apps; provides anytime, anywhere access to data; a desktop application; and an easy search tool. It also gives users the ability to edit documents online, maintain multiuser accounts and engage in multiple concurrent sessions. Additional services include online collaboration, remote file transfer and 24/7 technical support. Features also include increased security and file history recovery. ADrive offers both personal and business plans.

Free Storage Capacity: 50 GB

Website: www.adrive.com

4. Copy

Copy offers a cloud storage solution that’s both cheap and secure. Users can share accounts amongst multiple users and toggle between personal and company accounts using the same login. It includes sign now integration for fast and easy eSignatures, enterprise-class security that doesn’t rely on third parties and no size limits or viewing restrictions. Copy members can save, access and share files via the Copy desktop and mobile apps, which are available for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android and Windows Phone. If you only need to share a file or two, you can also drag and drop individual files directly into the Copy.com home page; you’ll get a unique, secure link to the file and built-in share options via Facebook, Twitter, and Google+. Users who sign up get 15 GB of free cloud storage. Copy for Companies also lets small teams start free with as much space as they need for up to five accounts.

Free Storage Capacity: 15 GB

Website: www.copy.com

5. OneDrive

OneDrive is Windows’ cloud storage solution, which provides users with remote access and seamless Microsoft Office and Windows Phone integration. SkyDrive also gives users a number of ways to upload and access files: over the Web, straight from Microsoft Office programs via the drag-and-drop desktop client, or through the use of the SkyDrive app for iPhone and iPad, Android, Windows Phone and mobile Web. SkyDrive users get 7 GB of free storage. Additional storage is available with yearly subscriptions of $25 for 50 GB, $50 for 100 GB and $100 for 200 GB.

Free Storage Capacity: 15 GB

Website: onedrive.live.com