The best cloud services
In this practical tip, we will introduce you to the best cloud services. Working on multiple devices, the cloud makes it easier for you to synchronize your data or to use it with others at the same time.
The classic: Dropbox as a cloud service
Dropbox is one of the best-known cloud services. We list the advantages and disadvantages of the popular storage platform.
- You get up to 2 gigabytes of storage space for free. You increase the volume with promotions. As a private individual, you can upload a total of one terabyte to the cloud for just under 10 euros a month. Companies pay 12 euros per user per month, but have unlimited storage capacity.
- Dropbox secures your files using AES 256-bit encryption. Other users cannot access the files until you give them approval. If you activate the "Two-digit verification" function, you must enter a 6-digit code in addition to your password each time you log on.
- Any email address is sufficient to register.
- Files can be edited offline and are then uploaded in the latest version.
The interactive cloud service: Google Drive
Work on files at the same time, Google Drive synchronizes the files and coordinates your entries.
- Google Drive initially limits your free storage space to 15 gigabytes. If you need more, take out a paid subscription.
- The cloud secures your files via SSL. You edit your files privately until you share them with other users. You then decide whether users can edit the file, comment on it or only view it.
- If you want to create and edit the files in Google Drive directly, you need a Gmail address. You can read the files with any other address if you have received a release link.
- With Google Drive you can edit a file with several users at the same time. You see changes live so that no conflicts arise.
For Windows lovers: Microsoft OneDrive
Microsoft also offers a partially free cloud service.
- Similar to Google Drive, the first 15 gigabytes of storage space as a private person are free of charge. You can purchase so-called "storage plans" for a monthly amount of between 2 and 7 euros and receive up to 1 terabyte of storage including Office 365. If you use the service for business, you pay per user.
- OneDrive secures your files via a version control and an optional two-step verification as with the Dropbox with an additional security code. PFS encryption is also possible. You give other users access to your files by sharing them.
- You need a Microsoft account and therefore an Outlook, Live or Hotmail address.
- You can edit the files with other users at the same time. The paragraph that the other user is currently changing is highlighted in these cases.
