Learn about the benefits of data archiving with remote storage, otherwise known as cloud storage.

Whether you’re storing pictures, documents or data there are two key factors of successful data archiving: accessibility and safety. With different data storage options come a variety of pros and cons — some more paralyzing than others.

Remote vs. Local Storage

Local storage is the process of data archiving by using a hard drive or solid state drive that is directly connected to your computer or device. It is often the less expensive option and offers faster file transfers and the most control. Large corporations often use local storage solutions for data archiving by allowing employees to connect to corporate hard drives with a secure network connection.

Those who use local storage can set up their own hard drive backup system and use products like the ProStorage hard drive storage system to organize and safely store up to 24 hard drives while they’re not in use. Each local hard drive can then be labeled to further increase organization and improve accessibility. One of the most important things to remember when storing files with local drives is to ALWAYS keep a second set.

Unfortunately, data archiving with local storage comes with its own share of issues, as local drives can burn out and crash, leaving you to pick up the pieces of the data you’ve lost.

Remote storage, or cloud storage, is a great data archiving solution for the general public. When it comes down to it, most people don’t have great data archiving strategies at home which means they’re more prone to losing important data, files or photos. Fortunately, cloud storage provides many benefits like instant access from any device, wherever you go. Remote cloud storage is a popular choice for many people when it comes to storing their data and it’s a great way to keep track of smaller text files like Word documents or Excel spreadsheets.

Finding a reputable cloud storage solution for data archiving

There are several subscription-based cloud storage options that offer data archiving solutions for anyone out there. But how do you go about finding them?

First, do a quick Google search with terms like “cloud storage” or “remote storage solutions”. You’ll find there are plenty of services offering cloud storage for an affordable monthly subscription cost. Just make sure to check consumer reviews for any red flags. Also, make sure whatever cloud system you decide to go with allows you to backup your USB or network drives. Some cloud storage solutions for data archiving only allow users to backup the main computer that was initially subscribed to the service.

Setting up your own cloud system

Photographers and videographers that handle large amounts of data often may prefer to set up their own cloud system for data archiving. Setting up a cloud-based storage system on a private network is a more attractive option for professionals because cloud storage is actually very slow. Photographers and videographers trying to transfer very large photo and video files through the internet will find it to be a slow-moving challenge.

Those that have the resources can set up their own cloud storage solutions but there are a few things to take into consideration.