Pegasus Technologies Discusses Cloud Storage vs. Local Storage: Which Is Better for File Security?
One of the most common questions both individuals and businesses have is: Which storage solution is best, cloud or local? While there may not be one easy answer for every business or user, Pegasus Technologies offers a detailed comparison to help organizations or individuals make an informed decision.
What is Cloud Storage
Cloud storage is a paid or free storage service model in which digital data is transmitted over the internet and stored remotely in an online space with multiple remote servers and locations. The storage service backs up and maintains the data and makes it available to the user.
Advantages of Cloud Storage
Cloud storage has gained widespread acceptance with the growing prevalence of a global workforce and cloud-based applications. Here are just a few of the many advantages cloud storage offers:
- Easy Data Retrieval. Users can retrieve data from virtually anywhere with internet access.
- Simple File Sharing.
- Better Collaboration. By accessing the same information and tools, teams can work more efficiently.
- Cost-Effective. Buying storage software and hardware can be expensive. Cloud storage is cheaper per GB than using external drives as the cost of servers is spread across many users. You also don't need to pay for additional expenses such as electricity to run servers and storage space.
- Increased Scalability. You can scale quickly and easily using cloud storage, no matter how much storage you need.
- Better Security. While using strong passwords, cloud storage has proven to be a safe and reliable source for file storage.
- Redundancy. MSPs typically store multiple copies of data in different locations. For files to be lost entirely, they would have to be lost from all the hard drives.
- Reduced Risk. By using trusted MSPs who employ large teams of IT security experts, your data is at less risk.
- It's a Green Solution. Businesses that use cloud solutions can cut energy consumption by up to 70%
Disadvantages of Cloud Storage
All file storage solutions have their drawbacks. Here are the main disadvantages of cloud storage.
- Reliance on the Internet. Cloud-based solutions are by nature accessed via the internet. Because of this, the performance of your internet can affect your ability to access files.
- Server Downtime. If your provider faces power loss, slow internet connectivity, or service maintenance, it may impact performance or your ability to access files.
What is Local Storage?
Local storage is the process of self-storing digital data on a physical storage device such as hard disc drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), or an external hard drive.
Advantages of Local Storage
Cloud storage may not be an excellent fit for every need. Here are some of the advantages of local file storage.
- Availability. Local storage means your data is stored locally and managed by you or your team. This means that your information is always at hand.
- Speed. Given the proper configuration, uploading files to local storage is much faster than cloud storage.
Disadvantages of Local Storage
While local storage has some advantages, it also has some disadvantages. Here are the top disadvantages to consider.
- Cost. The cost can be a real deal-breaker for many organizations for local storage. Local storage comes with a reasonably steep up-front cost consideration. It can be some time before you see a return on your investment.
- Inflexible. Without the drive, you do not have access to the data. This also makes sharing much more difficult.
- Risk. Securing data is difficult, risky, and expensive.
Pegasus Technologies Managed IT Services
Many businesses do not need a full-time IT department but do need comprehensive IT support. Pegasus Technologies is a managed Service Provider (MSP) and serves as your dedicated 24/7 IT department that helps with issues such as cloud and local storage, data backup, and more.
