Cloud Storage: 5 Free Providers In Comparison

Over the years, tons of photos, videos, and films have accumulated on your computer. Now the hard drive is full to bursting. Luckily, you can use cloud storage. These virtual hard drives often offer a lot of additional storage space, even in the free version. They also have the advantage that you can access the stored files from anywhere using a desktop PC, laptop, tablet, or smartphone.

Dropbox: The User’s Favorite

Dropbox was founded back in 2007 and, over time, has made a real name for itself as cloud storage. The storage servers are located in various data centers in the USA. The free basic version of the most well-known cloud storage offers you, among other things, the following functions:

1. 2 GB of storage space
2. Files are synchronized regardless of the device.
3. Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, and mobile operating systems via the Dropbox app
4. Self-explanatory interface
5. Data traffic of a maximum of 20 GB per day
6. Document and task management tool Dropbox Paper

Magenta Cloud: Generous Free Storage

The Magenta Cloud is Telekom’s free cloud storage. It is based on servers from Strato AG. The free basic version of Magenta Cloud offers you, among other things, the following functions:

1. 10 GB of storage space, even 25 GB for Telekom customers
2. Runs on Windows PC, Mac, and mobile operating systems via a smartphone app.
3. Cross-device and selective synchronization are possible.
4. High server speeds
5. You decide whether recipients of files can only view them or also edit them.
6. Sharing links can be protected with a password.
7. TÜV seal for cloud security.

Google Drive: Cloud With Integrated Applications

Google’s cloud storage solution, Google Drive, has been on the market since 2012. Use requires registration with a Google account with an email address and password. The data is stored on servers distributed worldwide. The free Google Drive offers you, among other things, the following functions:

1. 15GB of storage space
2. Runs on Windows, Mac, and mobile operating systems via a smartphone app.
3. Cross-device and selective synchronization are possible.
4. Built-in Google Drive apps like Google Docs let you create and edit documents and more.
5. Changes are saved and synchronized automatically, with an unlimited number of versions possible.
6. Content can be shared publicly or privately via links.
7. Intuitive user interface
8. Two-factor authentication of the associated Google account is possible.

Mega: Impressive Amount Of Storage With Encryption

Mega is a New Zealand cloud storage provider that has been on the market since 2013. The servers are also located “Down Under” in New Zealand. The free version offers you, among other things, the following functions:

1. Up to 50 GB of storage space is possible (by participating in bonus programs such as referring friends, etc.).
2. Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems, as well as mobile access via a smartphone app
3. Cross-device and selective synchronization are possible.
4. With comprehensive 2,048-bit encryption, you alone keep the password.
5. Unlimited storage of deleted files and overwritten file versions
6. Browser add-on for faster performance

Microsoft OneDrive: Deep Integration Into The Office World

OneDrive is the cloud storage of the software giant Microsoft. The servers are located all over the world. To use it, you need a Microsoft account with an email address, password, and phone number. The free version offers you, among other things, the following functions:

1. 5GB of storage space
2. Seamless integration into the file system of Windows 10 computers
3. It can be used via the OneDrive app or the web interface for all operating systems except Linux.
4. Office documents can be opened and edited online.
5. Sharing is possible via public or private links.
6. SSL protocol and 256-bit AES encryption
7. Excellent and fast support

Big Difference In Storage Space

Cloud storage is a good way for you to expand your storage resources in no time. Data storage media such as external hard drives or USB sticks are no longer necessary, and you no longer run the risk of damaging or losing them. You can also access the respective cloud service at any time using different devices. The providers differ primarily in terms of the storage capacity they provide free of charge and the security precautions.

Also Read: Digital Customer Journey: What It Is And How To Create Your Map