New technology is developed to make some things easier for everyone. From e-commerce apps to artificial intelligence, it’s all there to provide convenience and faster services for users. One technology that has helped businesses scale fast is cloud storage.

Cloud storage is a form of computer data storage. It is digital and stored on servers in off-site locations. The servers are maintained by a third-party provider who will host, manage and secure data stored on its infrastructure.

Having cloud storage for your business will help you store and maintain important data safely. Additionally, the tech is scalable and grows with your business, meaning you can save a lot of money.

How Does Cloud Storage Work?

Cloud storage uses remote servers to store all kinds of data. Data types include document files, videos, images and other business data. The data is uploaded onto the server using an Internet connection and is saved on a virtual machine on a physical server.

Data can be retrieved through an Internet connection. This can be done using a browser, app, web portal, or application programming interface (API).

Types of Cloud Storage Models

Currently, there are four different models of cloud storage.

Public Cloud Storage

Public cloud storage is when a business stores data in a data centre that is used by other businesses. The data is spread across regions and the cloud storage is usually offered on a subscription or pay-as-you-go basis.

When you store data on a public cloud you can scale the data up or down depending on your business needs. Data on these public servers can also be accessed from any device such as smartphones or web portals.

Private Cloud Storage

This refers to when a business uses its own servers and data centre(s) to store data within its own network. Some businesses do not have their own cloud infrastructure. Instead, they use cloud service providers. These providers offer servers and private connections that only they use.

Private clouds are usually used by organisations that require more control over their data and have strict compliance and security requirements.

Hybrid Cloud Storage

Hybrid cloud is a mix of private and public cloud storage models. Hybrid cloud storage allows businesses to decide which data it wants to store and on what server. If the data is sensitive and must meet strict compliance requirements, it may be stored in a private cloud. Less sensitive data is stored in the public cloud.

This type of storage has a layer of coherence that integrates between the two spaces (public and private). When using a hybrid cloud, businesses have flexibility should the need for scaling the public cloud arise.

Multi-cloud Storage

This is when a business sets up multiple cloud models from more than one service provider. Typically the cloud models will be public or private.

Organisations use these for several reasons. A vendor may offer special apps that require data storage in a specific country. Companies may have teams trained on different platforms. Additionally, businesses may need to meet various requirements not covered by the service provider’s agreement.

How to Use Cloud Storage

Cloud storage can be used for many purposes. Its most important characteristic  is that digital data can be saved for a long time.

Some of the ways to use cloud storage are:

Backup: Data backup on cloud storage separates production data and a backup copy to create a gap between the two to protect your business from cyber threats such as ransomware.

Backing up your data is as easy as saving files on a digital folder such as Google Drive. Alternatively, you can use block storage to maintain more important business data.

Archive: Archiving on the cloud allows us to digitise and store old records or old files. It’s also used to preserve records of governance and compliance purposes. Archived data can be accessed whenever you need it.

Disaster Recovery Storage: Cloud storage allows you to store and recover any data that might be lost in the event of a disaster. This means your business can continue even if you have experienced a fire or water. This is especially important for businesses that conduct online sales.

Data Processing Storage: Data processing is more possible because of this type of storage. If you need to analyse data for business intelligence or apply artificial intelligence or machine learning to large datasets, cloud storage makes it easier.

Content Delivery: Cloud storage allows businesses to have content available to their audiences readily available at all times. It allows you to save copies of media data (large audio and video files) on servers dispersed all over the world. This is especially useful for media and entertainment organisations.

Platforms for Small Businesses

Below is a list of some of the best platforms for cloud storage. These platforms provide services for businesses of all sizes including small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Google Drive

Google Drive is a cloud-based storage platform. It allows businesses to store, access and share files through its platform. Google Drive is free to use for basic storage needs. If you need more storage, you will need a Google One monthly subscription.

Dropbox Business

Dropbox business is perfect for small and agile teams. You can send and edit your files on the platform without using other apps. The platform also stores your data safely and you can access it at any time. Dropbox Business plans begin at $15 per user per month.

Microsoft OneDrive

OneDrive allows you to store, access and discover your files in Microsoft 365 apps from any device. You can try the platform for free, but for business plans, pricing starts at $5 per user per month.

For one-on-one time with an expert in business, visit SME Advice to speak to one of our experts.