When you want to store your files for easy access or to clear up some room on your computer, you may consider storing your data in the cloud. Sometimes the cloud can seem a little confusing with all of the technical terms, but here are 10 terms you should know if you’re getting into cloud data storage.
1. Cloud
You may hear people say “the cloud,” but what they’re referring to is storing your information on a network of servers rather than storing it on your local computer. Saving your data to the cloud allows you to access your information anywhere.
2. Cloud Gateways
A cloud gateway is a software or hardware that provides communication and connectivity between a cloud storage service provider and the customer. The cloud gateway also transfers data between your computer and mobile device.
3. Encryption
When a company says they encrypt data, this means they use the highest form of security possible on the internet. Even if someone can access your files, they can’t read them.
4. Enterprise Sync and Share
When you find a service that states it has enterprise sync and share, this means that it has a business-ready variation of its service that allows you to save and share files with other users. In short, you can sync your files to your local device and share them with anyone else you need to.
5. Global File System
Sometimes abbreviated GFS, a global file system is a system built in the cloud that spans across devices and regions. It creates a single file that’s accessible globally and has limitless capacity—with a master copy of all the data consolidated on the cloud.
6. Hybrid Cloud Storage
Hybrid cloud is a method of storing files that uses both local and off-site resources. It’s used to supplement saving your files locally and instead stores them in a public cloud. The data remains on-site, but inactively moves data to the cloud.
7. Private Cloud Storage
A private cloud is a secure way to save your information where only you have access to it. A private cloud storage usually boasts about their security techniques along with stating any sort of encryption it uses to keep your files safe.
8. Public Cloud Storage
Public cloud storage is the most common type you’ll find, such as Azure, Amazon, and Google Drive. These services offer little protection but are available for everyone to use at little to no cost— they’re the cheapest way to store your information.
9. SaaS
Storage as a Service, or SaaS, is when you pay to use data storage, similar to a utility. You can either choose to lease space to another company or rent space from another company to store your data.
10. Synchronization
Synchronization may be incredibly important for your business. When you update a file on your cloud, you need it to synchronize with the files stored on your computer. Some cloud storage has automatic synchronization where the files are updated as soon as more data is received.
