Definition[]
Cloud storage is
| “ | [a] service that allows customers to save data by transferring it over the Internet or another network to an offsite storage system maintained by a third party.[1] | ” |
| “ | [a] model of data storage in which the digital data is stored in logical pools, the physical storage spans multiple servers (and often locations), and the physical environment is typically owned and managed by a hosting company.[2] | ” |
Cloud data storage and backup[]
Cloud data storage allows companies to store data off-site at a secure and remote third party location. Provider storage pools are used by customers to file or backup data securely and automatically. Storage resources may span multiple servers and locations to meet the client's requirements. Cloud-services may be accessed through an API (Application programming interface) or via a cloud storage gateway or through content management systems. Companies pay for monthly usage and consumption of data storage. Cloud storage providers allow users to access services and applications with a web service interface.
Benefits[]
One of the benefits of cloud storage is that clients can access, edit or share updated data from any computer with an Internet connection. With cloud computing, users can access the same documents at the same time and collaborate in real-time. Google Drive can show you other users making edits to your document as they happen.
Cloud storage providers[]
Some of the big American cloud provider services include Amazon Cloud Drive, Apple iCloud, Google Drive, Microsoft SkyDrive, Adobe Creative Cloud and Dropbox. In Canada cloud services include Bell's Data Protect, Carbonite, Canada Post ePost and others.
References[]
- ↑ Cloud Computing Strategic Direction Paper, Glossary, at 42.
- ↑ FFIEC Information Technology Examination Handbook-Information Security, at 76.