Reduce clutter with digital storage
TECHNOLOGY
Utilizing digital storage can free up space and help keep important information only a few clicks away. Cloud storage is just one method of digital storage people can utilize. The following is a look at key digital options for getting organized.
Cloud storage. Cloud storage is a mode of computer data storage in which digital information is stored on servers off-site. Those servers are maintained by a thirdparty provider who is responsible for managing, securing and hosting the data that is always available via Internet connection.
Some cloud storage is free, while other cloud storage requires a subscription for a set amount of storage space, and the service provider may be able to use people’s personal data in various ways.
External hard drive. An external hard drive connects to a computer or another device (such as a mobile phone, tablet or gaming system) through USB connection. It is also known as a portable hard drive. People who save data to an external drive will always have exclusive ownership of those files, which may not be the case when utilizing cloud storage services.
An external hard drive is a relatively safe way to back up and store data for personal use only. However, people must have the external hard drive to access the files, and due to their mechanical nature, these drives can sometimes fail, resulting in lost data. Plus the data caps and monthly costs may make this type of storage impractical.
Device storage. Smartphones, tablets and computers all have built-in storage to enable the device to function and store data added by the user. Flash memory storage is one of the most popular used on mobile devices, according to Dignited, a technology information site. Computers use a combination of drive and memory types.
At the crux, memory, which comes in the number of bytes it can hold, stores information on the device itself. It is limited by the maximum number of bytes the device can hold, typically measured in megabytes, gigabytes or terabytes.
This type of storage allows people to keep important data right on a computer or digital device for easy access when needed. However, the storage amounts are limited by the maximum of what the device can hold and may not be accessed remotely.
—MetroCreativeConnection
