When choosing where to store your data you can use local or cloud storage or a combination of both.

Cloud storage stores your data on servers operated by cloud storage providers. These companies typically make backup copies of your files in multiple data centers that are protected using advanced security. You can access your data in the cloud from any device with an internet connection.

When you use local storage, your data is saved on local storage devices that you manage and operate yourself. Local storage can include hard disk drives, solid-state drives, and USB flash drives.

Cloud storage offers many advantages but there are drawbacks you must take into consideration.

Pros of Cloud Storage

Access from Anywhere

One of the major advantages of cloud storage is accessibility. You can access your files from any device that has an internet connection. Some providers may also offer offline access to your files.

Sharing and Collaboration

Cloud storage makes it easy to share and collaborate with others. You can share directly from the cloud and since file sharing is part of the package you can collaborate with others when creating and editing cloud based documents.

Cost

For personal use most cloud storage providers offer a limited amount of free storage, once you reach that limit if you want additional storage, you pay a monthly or yearly subscription fee. It is completely flexible so if you find out you need more space later you can increase the amount.

Backup

One of the major advantages of cloud storage is that your data is backed up on a remote server. Ideally you want three copies of your data, the original copy and two others in completely separate physical locations. If you experience data loss having your documents, music and photos on the cloud allows you to easily recover your data. A reputable cloud storage provider backs up in multiple locations, so your data is protected.

Security

Reputable cloud storage providers use advanced security features like encryption, multifactor authentication, data redundancy, and access control mechanisms to keep your data safe.

Cons of Cloud Storage

Reliance on an Internet Connection

Since cloud storage is online you must have an active internet connection to access your data, although some do offer offline access which allows you to store a local copy of your files. You can edit documents while you are offline and when you reconnect your documents will be synced with the cloud. Your internet speed determines how fast you can access, upload, download and sync your files so if you have a slow connection cloud storage may not be the best option.

Security and Privacy

While reputable providers offer advanced security features, no online storage is 100% safe from cyberattacks and data breaches. You are totally dependent on the host to keep your information safe. Providers can also collect data for marketing and other purposes, so it is important to fully understand their privacy policy before signing up.

Can be Costly

If you plan to store large amounts of data in the cloud it can be quite expensive, it may be more cost effective to store your data locally with a strong backup plan in place.

Compatibility and Migration Concerns

Moving data from one cloud storage provider to another can be a complicated process. Different providers use varying file structures and formats, which can make it difficult to transfer from one provider to another.

Both cloud storage and local storage have their risks and benefits, many people use a combination of both. Cloud storage is an excellent way to make sure you have a copy of your data in a completely separate physical location which prevents data loss. But never depend on cloud storage as the only location you are saving your files, you always want a local copy as well.