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What is Cloud Storage?
Cloud storage is a cloud computing model in which data is stored on remote servers and accessed over the Internet or through a dedicated private network connection. The physical storage involves multiple connected computing resources, such as servers or virtual machines (VMs), often located in various data centers.
A key feature of cloud storage is its high availability (HA), meaning the same data is redundantly stored across multiple machines. This redundancy ensures that even if one server goes down, customers can still access their data. Another characteristic of cloud storage is that the cloud storage infrastructure is maintained, operated, and managed by the cloud hosting provider or cloud storage service provider.
In simple terms, what is cloud storage? It’s like saving files and information in an off-site location rather than a local storage device. A third-party service provider manages the data and physical resources. To access storage on the cloud, customers only need an Internet-connected device and their cloud storage login credentials.
Key Takeaways
- Cloud storage is data stored on remote servers and accessed via the Internet or private network connection.
- Key features of cloud storage are its high availability and accessibility.
- To use cloud storage, users need an Internet-connected device and login credentials.
- Cloud storage is available in private, public, and hybrid clouds.
- Types of cloud storage include file storage, block storage, and object storage.
How Does Cloud Storage Work?
Generally, cloud storage systems operate via a web-based application programming interface (API) that remotely interacts with the customer’s cloud storage infrastructure. This interaction is managed by a control node, which coordinates data input/output (I/O) and read/write (R/W) operations across the storage resources.
From the customer’s perspective, using cloud storage is similar to managing on-premises storage networks in that it involves using servers to save data. The key difference is that cloud storage works by saving data to remote servers. Customers access this cloud storage over the Internet or a private connection via a website portal or mobile app.
Cloud Storage Models
Cloud storage provides customers and applications with a scalable virtual storage (VS) architecture. It is usually deployed in private, public, and hybrid clouds.
Personal cloud storage is a commonly used phrase when referring to cloud storage services such as Apple iCloud, Dropbox, Google Drive, or Microsoft OneDrive. These services are generally considered public cloud storage but are tailored for individual use rather than business or enterprise-level needs.
Types of Cloud Storage
The three main types of cloud storage include file storage, block storage, and object storage.
| File storage | Block storage | Object storage |
|---|---|---|
| Stores data in a hierarchical structure of files and folders. | Divides data into blocks. | Stores data as objects. |
| Similar to network-attached storage (NAS). | Similar to traditional hard drives. | Similar to distributed storage systems. |
| Commonly used for shared file systems. | Commonly used for databases, high-performance applications. | Commonly used for large amounts of unstructured data, like multimedia and backups. |
Cloud Storage Pricing
Cloud storage pricing follows a flat or tiered subscription-based model. Basic accounts are a flat rate for a specified amount of storage, usually measured in gigabytes (GB) or terabytes (TB). The more storage required, the more it costs. However, cloud services are scalable, meaning storage capacity can be scaled up or down based on needs.
Companies often use pay-as-you-go (PAYG) models, paying for the exact amount of storage used. Additional services, including enhanced security, region-specific storage, data transfer costs, hot/cold storage options, encryption, managed services, and service level agreements (SLAs) impact pricing.
When referring to personal cloud drives, users typically receive a set amount of free storage and pay for additional space and features as needed.
Cloud Storage Use Cases
Many consumers have a basic understanding of cloud storage, from using free accounts to storing and sharing documents, photos, and other digital data. But what is cloud storage used for beyond personal use?
Common use cases for cloud storage include:
- Application hosting
- Big data analytics
- Content delivery networks (CDNs)
- Data backup and recovery
- File sharing and collaboration
- Software development and testing
Cloud Storage Security
Cloud storage security protects data from cybersecurity threats and human error in cloud-based environments through encryption, access controls, and security audits.
Despite these measures, a 2024 IBM security report found that 45% of breaches are cloud-based, with public cloud breaches costing an average of $5.17 million USD. This highlights the importance of security practices by both providers and users – including strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA) on customer accounts.
Cloud Storage Pros and Cons
- High availability (HA)
- Self-service provisioning
- Unlimited storage capacity
- Compliance
- Internet dependency
- Vendor lock-in
The Bottom Line
The cloud storage definition is a model where data is stored on remote servers and accessed via the Internet or a private network – offering a scalable and secure solution to store and manage data.
Advantages of cloud storage is the service provider handles infrastructure maintenance and management, high availability, and pricing models based on usage. However, cloud storage disadvantages include vendor lock-in, Internet dependency, and ensuring compliance with regulations for storing data. Although cloud storage generally offers security protection and compliance, it is important for both the service provider and the customer to adopt strong security practices.
