Hi everyone, I’m MaxSim, Cable & Wireless’ SIM Card enabled by the fastest LTE A mobile network in Seychelles, and welcome back to this month’s new blog issue. We cover little bytes of everything-tech, are you excited for this month’s Byte?

If there is anything specific you would like for us to discuss, feel free to send over some suggestions on our Facebook & Instagram pages! 

Here’s a byte on Cloud Computing!

No, we’re not talking about those big fluffy things in the sky!    But rather a metaphorical ‘cloud’ of data that we casually refer to as ‘the internet’. In its simplest form, cloud computing means storing and accessing your data over the internet, rather than on a device. Cloud computing can do many things, for example it allows you to virtually ‘plug into’ IT infrastructure via an internet connection, or gives you access to pictures from an online gallery, or transfer contacts through cloud storage options!

In recent years, both individual users and businesses have moved away from traditional data storage. Cloud technology offloads many of the costs associated with hosting and managing on-site IT infrastructure, allowing businesses to be cost-effective. It’s also extremely flexible, you can purchase capacity as and when you need it, meaning you won’t ever really run out of space! 

Pretty nifty, right?   

If you use a desktop or mobile, you’ve most likely already used some form of cloud computing at home or work. Applications like Google’s Gmail, streams through subscription sites like Netflix or Amazon Video, or using a cloud-based storage service like iCloud. These are examples of cloud computing!

Although the ‘Cloud’ is such a large, vague term for the internet and it gives you access to many services, you may hear it more often when we talk about storage.

So, why should you add some form of cloud storage into your daily tech life? Here’s just a few reasons:

1. Safety – Official cloud-based services can offer extra security on your files, if your personal device is affected by malware, your data will not be compromised through data loss or hackers.
2. Digital – Files stores on the cloud won’t be affected by broken physical devices. Never lose precious photo memories because you accidentally dropped it in the sea!    Just remember to regularly upload your files to the cloud.
3. Flexible – Unlike hard drives, cloud services allow you to upgrade or downgrade your package instantly. Get more storage as and when you need it, for a fraction of the cost!
4. Accessible – Access your data anywhere and anytime, you only need your account details and an internet connection.
5. Sharing – You can easily share your files with others with hyperlinks. If you’re a business, you can upload your price list to the cloud and share the link with any potential customers! 

If you haven’t explored a cloud storage service yet, there’s a couple of things to consider, like how many files you have, if you will be sharing files regularly, or what type of device you own. Many cloud storage services provide capped free data, so you can try a few before investing in a service. Here’s a couple of options you can consider:

• Google Drive:

This is a great option for cloud storage newbies, it’s decked with an easy interface and mobile apps to facilitate navigating your files. It offers Google’s full suite for Docs, Spreadsheets and other useful applications like Gmail, along with 15GB of free storage, which is the highest for our list!

• Apple iCloud:

iCloud is available on every iOS Apple device, it allows for backups and syncing of contacts, calendars, files, etc… With iCloud, you get 5GB of free data. Unfortunately, this is not available to Android OS devices.

• Dropbox:

This is a great option for cloud storage, it’s accessible on all devices and is both mobile and desktop friendly! If you are often sharing files, this could be the best option for you as it’s easily accessible for everyone. Only downside is the available free storage is only 2GB.

• Microsoft One Drive:

Like Google, Microsoft One Drive gives you access to their entire suite (Word, Excel, Email... etc.). If you’re a professional, or own a business, it’s a great option to have all your applications and files in one place. Like iCloud, One Drive offers 5GB of free storage.

Well, that was a great chat we had, I hope now you know a little more on Cloud Computing!

What do you think about using cloud storage services, and do you have a favourite service you like to use? Let us know on our social media!

I’ll be back next month for another Byte.

MaxSim