What is the cloud and why should you be using it? | Blog | Three

What is the cloud?

The cloud is a way of storing your data virtually and has nothing to do with those fluffy things in the sky.

The beauty of storing everything online is that it’s easy to access. Any device, anywhere with an internet connection.

How to connect to the cloud

It really couldn’t be easier. Simply choose one of the many cloud services that are out there. Once you’ve logged in and chosen what you’d like to save, your phone will start syncing straight away.

You’ll then be able to access all your files using the cloud from any device. All you need to do is connect to the internet and log in. It’s that simple!

Not only is the cloud great for photos, it’s also perfect for storing things like phone or tablet backups. This means if your phone is lost, stolen, or stops working, all you’ll need to worry about is choosing a new phone. What’s not to love about that?

What is the cloud service for me?

We’ve put together info on some of our faves to get you started.

Apple iCloud

If you’re an Apple user, you probably know all about iCloud. In-case you don’t know, iCloud is used to store backups of your phone including settings, contacts, photos, videos, and music. All you need to do is tap your Apple ID in the Settings menu to choose what to back up.

With iCloud, you can back up your device and settings too. So, if you get a new phone, you can log into iCloud and set it up from a previous back-up. This automatically transfers your stuff to your new phone with zero hassle.

Samsung Cloud

The Samsung Cloud makes it easy to keep everything backed up. It backs up both your data and settings that mean that if your phone dies, you can restore everything from your device.

How to access Samsung Cloud

You can access your backed-up files by simply signing into your Samsung account on your device.

Samsung Cloud starts you off with 15GB storage space for free, but if that’s not enough space you can upgrade to get more. You can do that nice and easily through your device Settings menu.

While Samsung Cloud is only available on selected phones and tablets at the moment, that list keeps on growing.

Microsoft OneDrive

With Microsoft OneDrive, you can back up, share and store loads of stuff like documents, videos and photos anywhere, on any device. Like most cloud services, there are different storage tiers that you can choose from. They range from OneDrive Basic 5GB, which gives you 5GB free storage. Then there’s Office 365 Home, which comes with premium OneDrive features. These premium features include a 5TB storage for £79.99 a year, or £7.99 a month. It also includes Microsoft Office 365 installations for 5 PCs, 5 tablets, and 5 phones.

Google Drive

Google Drive starts you off with 15GB of free Google online storage. You can use it to view your files from any smartphone, tablet, or computer. With Google Drive, it’s easy to share files and folders. You can collaborate and invite others to view, download, and edit in real time, without needing email attachments.

If 15GB storage isn’t enough, you can upgrade to 100GB for £1.59 a month, 1TB for £7.99 a month or 10TB for £79.99 a month.

Dropbox

Dropbox basic gives you 2GB free storage and access to files across multiple devices either online or via the app. You can also share folders and links with friends and family.

If you need more than 2GB storage, then you can upgrade to Plus. Plus gives you 1TB storage for £7.99 a month. It also gives you access to your files while you’re offline – no need for an internet connection. Dropbox Plus also gives you priority email support for your Dropbox account. You can also do handy things like wiping your device remotely.

Now you’re up to speed on the Cloud and how it works, you can relax knowing that everything is safe.

The days of those ‘send me your numbers’ posts on Facebook are far behind you.