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Cloud Storage vs External Hard Drive - Which Is Better for Backing Up Data?

October 01, 2022

Cloud Storage vs External Hard Drive - Which Is Better for Backing Up Data?

As we all know, backing up important data is crucial in today's digital age. The question is, which backup method is better? Should you rely on cloud storage or external hard drive? In this post, we'll compare these two options and help you decide which one is right for you.

Cloud Storage

Cloud storage is a storage space provided by third-party services, which can be accessed through the internet. Cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox and OneDrive offer free as well as paid storage options with added features.

Pros of Cloud Storage

  • Accessibility: One of the biggest advantages of cloud storage is accessibility. As long as you have an internet connection, you can access your stored data from anywhere in the world.
  • Storage Space: Most cloud storage services offer huge storage spaces, which means you can store large amounts of data without worrying about running out of space.
  • Automatic Backups: With cloud storage, you can set up automatic backups, which means you don't have to remember to back up your data manually.
  • Collaboration: You can easily share files and collaborate with others using cloud storage services.

Cons of Cloud Storage

  • Security: While cloud storage services have implemented security measures, there is always a risk of data breaches.
  • Dependence on Internet: Cloud storage services heavily depend on the internet, which means if your internet connection is slow or non-existent, downloading or uploading files can be frustratingly slow.
  • Cost: While some services offer free storage space, cloud storage services can be expensive if you need more space or additional features.

External Hard Drive

An external hard drive is a portable storage device that connects to a computer through a USB or Thunderbolt port.

Pros of External Hard Drive

  • Portability: You can easily carry an external hard drive wherever you go, which means you can access your data anytime and anywhere, without depending on the internet.
  • Security: Your data is physically stored on the drive, which means it's secure as long as you keep the drive safe.
  • Cost-Effective: External hard drives are generally cheaper in terms of cost per GB compared to cloud storage.

Cons of External Hard Drive

  • Limited Storage: The amount of data you can store on an external hard drive is limited by its physical size and capacity.
  • Dependence on Local Storage: An external hard drive is useless if it's lost, stolen or damaged. Therefore, it's recommended to keep a backup of your important data at a separate location.
  • Manual Backups: Unlike cloud storage, external hard drives require manual backups which means you have to remember to back up your data regularly.

So, which one should you choose? Well, that depends on your needs and preferences. If you need a large storage space for your data and need to access it from multiple locations, cloud storage is the right choice. On the other hand, if you prefer portability, security, and cost-effectiveness, an external hard drive is the way to go.

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