Cloud
storage is one of the best ways to keep your business’s important data safe and
accessible.
More and
more small and midsize businesses are turning to cloud storage services
to keep files and documents backed up and available from any
Internet-connected device — even when those files contain sensitive company and
client data.
Adopting
a cloud storage platform will keep your files at your fingertips, but choosing
one can be tricky. A dizzying array of cloud computing services have emerged,
each with a unique feature set.
When
choosing a cloud service, it’s important for each business to consider its
individual needs. Instead of looking at the best overall cloud storage
solutions, we’ve compiled a list of seven important features to look for in
your next cloud storage service.
1. File versioning
With a
service that supports file versioning, you can edit worry-free.
Services
with this feature don’t overwrite your old files when you make changes.
Instead, they save multiple versions of your files so you can retrieve the old
copies later.
That
could be a lifesaver for business users who need to retrieve important data that
have been overwritten.
The vast
majority of cloud computing services support file versioning in some
form, but some will only maintain a limited number of versions, or even delete
old versions after a set period of time.
Even if a
file is deleted, most services allow you to retrieve it. Check to see how long
the service saves deleted files before they’re wiped forever.
2. Automatic sync
Automatic
syncing capabilities are a must for business users who depend on the cloud.
Services with this feature will update your files to reflect any edits you make
in real time.
Not all
services with syncing functionality will do it automatically. That could be a
major problem if you forget to sync your files before your next business trip.
With
automatic syncing, you can rest easy knowing that your data are always
up-to-date. The best cloud storage services also allow users to schedule
permanent backups to an external drive to occur at specified time intervals.
3. Collaboration tools
When you
need to share and edit files with an employee or other member of your business
team, you’ll want top-notch tools.
Collaboration
features vary by service. The best services allow users to share files with an
authorized user on any device in multiple ways, including via direct link and
email.
The best
services also keep your shared data secure, with nuanced password protection
that can be enabled at the folder and sub-folder levels.
Before
picking a service, make sure it has features to fit the workflow of your team.
4. View and edit files from the cloud
This is
the bread and butter of a business-ready cloud computing platform. Transferring
important files from device to device is a time-consuming hassle; business
owners need to access their files at a moment’s notice, 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 Internet-connected
device. That means you can make quick edits on the fly, and have your edits
synced across all your devices.
But make
sure to double-check before you subscribe. Some services, like the music- and
media-focused Amazon Cloud Drive, require you to download a file to your hard
drive to make edits and then reupload it to the cloud once you’re finished.
When
you’re working on the go, that shortcoming could seriously hamper your
productivity.
5. Security and file encryption
Security
is a top concern when you take your business to the cloud. Your company’s
private data could be compromised if the service you use lacks the
right features.
Make sure
your service encrypts your data at least once before it ever leaves your
servers. The best services also allow you to pick your own encryption key so
that not even that company’s employees can view your files.
You should
also have the ability to protect your files with a password, particularly when
accessing them from a mobile device, as well as the capability to set different
levels of access for different employees.
Top-notch
security features will let you relax when sending private information about
your clients 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 from five
to 10 employees, with ample space at a reasonable price.
Some
storage platforms offer a limited amount of data for a cheap price and get
progressively more expensive as they scale up; others start off at a more
expensive rate but offer bigger storage plans at a lower rate.
The price
for 1TB of storage can vary from as little as $250 up to thousands of dollars
per year, depending on which features you need. And only some services offer
plans with unlimited data storage, though your small business may have more
modest needs.
Still,
the best cloud storage solutions may be the ones that can grow alongside your
business. You may be starting off with just a handful of employees, but
consider picking a service that can accommodate your company well into the
future.
7. Reliable tech support
When it
comes to your business’s daily operations, technical difficulties are no joke.
If you or your employees can’t access important files when they’re needed, it
could seriously cost you.
Help and
technical support services vary from service to service. The best services
respond promptly and have someone available to help you 24/7.
In
addition to email and phone support, some services also offer live text chat to
help you troubleshoot. Take a few minutes to review your options before
choosing a cloud storage solution.
Learn
more about Cloud services by contacting MCC’s Integrated Solutions Division
today!
For more details please contact us at:
4771 Summer Ave
Memphis, TN 38122
Tel: 901.725.9271
Fax: 901.272.3577
Toll Free: 866.805.5893
Service and Supplies: 901.257.2500
Website: http://www.memphiscommunications.net
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