Did you know that the amount of big data has doubled every two years? In fact, Forbes predicts that the global big data market will grow from $18.3 billion in 2014 to $92.2 billion by 2026. Thanks to this large volume of data, businesses have gained better analytics and insights. However, they’ve also had to handle more files on a regular basis. But the problem is that investing in additional on-site servers to handle all that data is expensive, and carrying your computer with you everywhere you go isn’t practical.

This is why you need anytime, anywhere access to critical files and applications.  Envision more streamlined operations with safe and easy access to documents, a generous amount of storage space, and the ability to collaborate simultaneously in real-time. Online file storage is the ideal, budget-friendly solution that ensures all that and more.

What is it?

Online file storage is a cloud storage solution that features automatic or manual backup of your documents so you can access them from anywhere at any time on any device. This provides quick and easy file storing, sharing and syncing, and a large amount of storage space that doesn’t break the bank, too. Below are some of the best online file storage solutions that will make your life a whole lot easier.

OneDrive for Business

Microsoft’s cloud storage solution features a user-friendly and intuitive interface: a folder and file list that allow you to look through your personal and shared documents. OneDrive’s single sign-on allows you to use one login to access multiple applications. You can also share files using a direct link to the document, set the document to require a sign-on, or even create an external link with an expiration date.

Changes to the document are shown in real-time and files can be restored back to their previous versions. Robust security features like disk- and file-level encryption ensure sensitive data are never at risk. You can define who is authorized to view each document, as well as set who has edit or read-only permissions. OneDrive for Business comes with 1TB storage per user, and a sync feature that saves a local copy of your files so you can access them offline.

DropBox

DropBox saves your files throughout all your devices so they’re readily available to you no matter what device you’re using or where you are. Simply drag and drop files into your desktop’s Dropbox folder, and you can share files and folders with anyone online. Storage space starts from 2GB per user and is upgradable to 1TB per user. What’s more, Dropbox integrates with over 100,000 third-party apps.

DropBox protects your files with data encryption and two-step verification, and stores your folders for 30 days before permanently deleting them. However, DropBox doesn’t give you the option to own your encryption key. And while file download speeds are decent, the same can’t be said about uploads. For example, a 1TB upload, would take about 16 days, whereas most other solutions would take fewer than five.

Google Drive

This cloud storage solution offers huge amounts of storage space, starting from 15 GB per user, with unlimited storage for the Enterprise licensing option. Real-time uploads and file sharing mean employees can collaborate on the same document simultaneously.

Google Drive features single sign-on, task tracking, version control, as well as access control.

You can easily create and share documents, spreadsheets, slides, and photos from various mobile devices; as well as restoring older revisions of files.

Box

Box is an online file sharing and content management service. You can expect a clean, web-based interface; extensive file-sharing capabilities; and one-click sharing option and drag-and-drop upload. Box integrates with Office 365 and Google Docs, and features multi-layered encryption and mobile security.

However, Box is entirely web-based, meaning there’s no desktop client to automatically back up computer files. You’ll have to manually upload all files to your account. Another shortcoming is the modest amount of storage space that doesn’t compete with the other solutions -- starting from 5GB per user, to 100GB per user.

Online file storage ensures quick and easy access to all your files which enhances workforce mobility and improves productivity. Because your documents remain safe and secure, you’ll no longer need to manage in-house servers, allowing you to lower costs. If you have any questions about online cloud storage solutions, simply give us a call. We have hundreds of satisfied customers who will attest to our extensive cloud experience.