Free Cloud Storage

Cloud storage means that data is stored online and that various networked servers are used for storage. These servers are managed by cloud storage providers. Providers offer different price plans for backup. Price depends on maximum space we need for storage. Almost all cloud storage providers offer free cloud storage. Free cloud storage means a limited space quota on backup servers that we can use without paying a monthly fee. Once we cross the space limit, we have to pay for extra storage space.

There are various ways of how to save our precious documents, photos and other files to cloud storage servers.

Desktop backup software

We can backup and restore files to and from the storage cloud using a dedicated computer program. Program is free, and provided by hosting company. It has to be installed on every PC that wants to have access to stored data.

Web browsers

In the contrary, when using browser for storing data, no additional software is needed. We simply log into our account on hosting web page and transfer data between server and local PC.

List of providers

Below you fill find a list of cloud storage providers that offer a free data storage on their servers.

EMC is a Fortune 500 company owning a Mozy Online Backup service. In order to test their automatic online backup, you can try for free a MozyHome 2 Gb storage plan.

Compatibility

MozyHome can be installed on Windows and Mac platform. Supported OS versions are XP, Vista and Windows 7 as well as Mac OS X 10.4, 10.5 and 10.6, 10.6.

Security

All data that is encrypted before transfer to Mozy data centers. SSL, a secure protocol is used for data transfer. A private key can be chosen for added security. Mozy data storage centers comply with SAS70 and ISO standards for data security protection.

Backup and restore

File version support is integrated in their software. This way, a file version of up to 30 days old can be restored. Both, locked (like Outlook PST files) and open files are backed up. Back up can be scheduled or automatic. Restore can be done trough web, via installed client, with help of Mozy virtual drive (only Windows users) or by ordering a DVD with restored data.

Dropbox installation

First create account on Dropbox web page. To create account you have to provide your personal data and computer name. If you don't have account, one can be created during Dropbox software installation.

Download the latest version of Dropbox software and run program. During installation process you will be asked to select your Dropbox storage size. 2 Gb free cloud storage space. Up to 50 Gb of space cost 9.99 US$ per month and up to 100 Gb space cost 19.99 US$ per month. After deciding for price plan you have option to continue with standard or advanced setup.

Work with dropbox

Once terminated installation a shared Dropbox folder is created on your desktop and Dropbox icon in your command toolbar.

Whatever file or map you drop on Dropbox folder, will be automatically stored on web server. Pressing a Dropbox icon shows you percentage and time until sync of files is done. You can also see which the recent uploaded files were and how much free space on server you still have.

Working with Dropbox offline

When you login into your account on Dropbox web site you can see various tabs:

File: Here you can see all your stored files and folders. To download, move, rename or delete files or folders first select them with checkbox and then perform the corresponding action. A special feature is Gallery, where you get link to your shared Photo folder. Anybody that enters the link into browser can see a simple photo gallery presentation. This is a simple way to share your photos among friends and family.

Events: A log of activity for your dropbox by date (name and time of file/folder creation)

Sharing: You can opt for sharing and collaborating on a set of files