1. What is the cloud?
The CLOUD is the modern way of storing all your files (documents, pictures etc.).
Normally when you save a file it saves onto the hard drive on your computer.
All well and good.
But what if your computer was stolen or lost or destroyed in a fire or flood? All your precious pictures and important documents would be gone forever.
And that’s where the CLOUD comes in.
Think of the CLOUD as your private hard drive in the sky.
Here is how it works.
2. Peace of mind
When you save stuff to the cloud it is not stored directly on your computer. Due to the wonders of the internet and overseas warehouses with zillions of zigabytes of storage, you can save your files to the big hard drive in the sky rather than on your computer.
(Zigabytes is a made-up term by the way).
Therefore, if you lose your computer for any reason, it’s not a problem.
The programs on your computer can be reinstalled. But your personal files cannot.
With the cloud, you can pick up a different computer on the other side of the world and open your files. Neat huh?
3. Sharing your files
It also means you can easily share files between your devices (laptop, tablet, phone) and your family or colleagues.
And if you’re wondering about security, you have your own cloud account with the normal access credentials of a username and a password. You cannot access your files without them.
You can also share large files without the need to attach them (this will make more sense once you start emailing with attachments).
4. Start using the cloud for free
There are many companies who provide cloud facilities.
The four most popular ones are:
Each offer a basic account with free storage to get you started. For many people the free storage is sufficient but there are paid plans which won’t break the bank) if you need more.
Each will work on any type of computer.
5. Let's wrap
I hope you found plenty of value in this post. I'd love to hear your biggest takeaway in the comments below together with any questions you may have.
Have a fantastic day.
About the author
Jason Morrell
Jason Morrell is a professional trainer, consultant and course creator who lives on the glorious Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia.
He helps people of all levels unleash and leverage the power contained within Microsoft Office by delivering training, troubleshooting services and taking on client projects. He loves to simplify tricky concepts and provide helpful, proven, actionable advice that can be implemented for quick results.
Purely for amusement he sometimes talks about himself in the third person.
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