Learn the differences between cloud storage and cloud backup
We ordinarily see experienced professionals refer to storage and backup in the cloud as if they were both different terms for the same procedure. In reality, they are processes with different objectives and functions. Find out the difference between them and see which is best suited for each situation!
Cloud storage
It allows different users to be able to access and share software, files and other applications through a network of remote servers that can be accessed from any device connected to the Web. It ensures access to all company documents and information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and at the time and place you need.
Cloud storage gives small- and medium-sized companies the chance to have a data security infrastructure worthy of the giants. It is something that was previously unfeasible due to the high cost of maintenance. Most likely, your company is already or has been using some cloud storage service. It is the technology present in services such as Google Drive and Dropbox.
Cloud backup
Backup is a term in the computer world meaning copy of computer data (such as a file or the contents of a hard drive). As the name suggests, it is the process of replicating a set of data stored on one device to another one, without deleting the original. In general, the copies are from some computer or shared network system to a server considered more secure. It may be carried out manually (by using computer keys ctrl+c/ctrl+v) or automated by means of a system that creates copies of the data in a safe place in preestablished periods of time.
Properly creating and storing backups is essential so that data from a network or device can be easily recovered in case of incidents such as files that are accidentally deleted, data corruption and even computer theft.
When we talk about cloud backup, we are referring to the same backup process, but in this case they are hosted in the cloud, which increases information security and ensures a more agile data recovery process. Another great advantage is in reduced costs compared to the option of backup in an internal server.
The main difference between cloud storage and cloud backup
Confusing? Take it easy! The two processes are really similar to each other but briefly we can say that the main difference between them is the ultimate goal and the temporality of each. Cloud backup is most often used as a data security strategy and ensures that the work routine is not deeply affected by technical issues.
As for cloud storage, it focuses on the workflow itself. It is a solution that becomes part of the routine of all or almost all employees of a company. Increased data security is also a consequence of this process but not its primary goal, which is aimed at increasing collaboration and productivity in the team.
And, of course, backup is done with “past” data already saved, while cloud storage archives the data for them to be worked on in real time. Share this article on your social networks so your contacts learn to never again confuse storage and backup in the cloud!
