When choosing a cloud service for each business, it is important to consider your individual needs. Rather than looking for the best overall Managed Storage Services, we've compiled a list of seven essential features to look for in your next cloud storage service.
1. File version control
With a service that supports file versioning, you can edit seamlessly.
Services with this feature do not overwrite your old files when changes are made. Instead, they keep multiple versions of your files so that you can restore old copies later.
This can save the life of business users who need to recover important data that has been overwritten.
The vast majority of cloud computing services support file versioning in some form, but some will only support a limited number of versions or even remove older versions after a set period of time.
Even if the file is deleted, most services allow you to restore it. Check how long the service keeps deleted files before they are permanently deleted.
2. Automatic synchronization
Cloud-dependent business users need automatic syncing capabilities. Services with this feature will update your files to reflect any changes you make in real time.
Not all sync-enabled services will do this automatically. This can become a major problem if you forget to sync your files before your next business trip.
With automatic syncing, you can relax knowing that your data is always up to date. The best cloud storage services also allow users to schedule permanent backups to an external drive that should occur at regular intervals.
3. Collaboration tools
When you need to share and edit files with a coworker or other member of your business team, you need first-rate tools.
Collaboration features are service dependent. The best services allow users to share files with an authorized user on any device in various ways, including through a direct link and email.
The best services also keep your shared data safe with careful password protection that you can enable at the folder and sub-folder level.
Before choosing a service, make sure it has features that suit your team's workflow.
4. View and edit files from the cloud.
This is the essence of a ready-to-use cloud computing platform. It takes a long time to transfer important files from one device to another; business owners should have access to their files whenever they want, wherever they are.
The vast majority of cloud computing services allow users to view and edit files from the cloud on any computer, smartphone, tablet, or other device connected to the Internet. This means you can make quick edits on the fly and sync them across all your devices.
But don't forget to check before subscribing. Some services, like the music and media-centric Amazon Cloud Drive, require you to download the file to your hard drive to make changes, and then upload it back to the cloud after you're done.
When you're on the go, this glitch can seriously hamper your productivity.
5. File security and encryption.
When you move your business to the cloud, security is the number one concern. Your company's personal information may be compromised if the service you are using does not have the desired functionality.
Make sure your service encrypts your data at least once before it leaves their servers. The best services also allow you to choose your own encryption key so that even the employees of this company cannot see your files.
You should also be able to password protect your files, especially when accessing them from a mobile device, and be able to set different levels of access for different employees.
Top-notch security features let you relax while sending private information about your customers to the cloud.
6. Flexible storage capacity at an affordable price.
Your storage needs are unique to your business. Small business owners are most likely looking for a cloud storage platform that can accommodate data for five to ten employees, with ample space at a reasonable cost.
Some storage platforms offer a limited amount of data at low cost and become more expensive as they expand; others start at a higher price, but offer larger storage plans at a lower cost.
The price of 1 TB of storage can range from $ 250 to thousands per year, depending on the features you need. And only a few services offer unlimited storage plans, although your small business may have more modest needs.
However, the best cloud storage solutions may be those that can grow with your business. You may be starting with a handful of employees, but consider choosing a service that will help your business in the future.
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