Cloud Storage
What is cloud storage?
- Cloud storage is a term to describe long term (secondary) storage of data that resides in a remote location, accessible only via a wide area network (Internet)
- Data is stored on remote servers, typically using magnetic storage (HDD), but increasingly using solid state (SSD)
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Reliability - Access data anywhere, any time, from any device | Cost - Typically a monthly/yearly subscription plan |
| Security - Automatic backups | Availability - No access without an internet connection |
| Capacity - Endless storage space (cost permitting), uses less space on own device | |
| Collaboration - Multiple people can access the same file at the same time |
Worked example
Data is increasingly being stored ‘in the cloud’
State two advantages of using cloud storage instead of local storage [2]
How to answer this question
- A state question worth 2 marks only requires you to identify 2 advantages, they do not require any explanation
Answer
- enables user to access their data from more places/devices
- enables user to more easily share data with others
- cloud storage is automatically backed up by the host
