The Difference Between Cloud Storage and Cloud Backup

If you’re in the midst of researching cloud solutions or transitioning your business to the cloud, it’s imperative to dispel a common misconception: Not all cloud-based services automatically ensure data backup and security. Beyond merely storing files, ensuring cloud safety demands close attention to cloud security and proper cloud backups.

Sounds a little overwhelming, doesn’t it? Don’t fret! Fortunately, you have an experienced managed service provider (MSP) like us to be your ally in this endeavor.

Debunking the Myth

FACT: Cloud storage is useful for freeing up space on your devices, file sharing and project collaboration.

FICTION: Cloud storage offers data protection and automation.

Cloud storage doesn’t inherently offer automated backups and doesn’t support file versioning. That’s why it’s crucial for businesses to have a dedicated backup solution for comprehensive data protection.

Cloud Storage vs. Cloud Backup

Let’s break down the difference between cloud storage and cloud backup. Cloud storage is all about making your files accessible from anywhere, anytime. It’s like having your files in an online filing cabinet, making it easy to share and collaborate in real-time.

Cloud backup solutions focus on creating secure copies of your data, encrypting them and sending them to external storage, whether local or offsite. In this instance, it’s like having your own personal (and intuitive) digital safe. In the event of data loss caused by natural disasters, power outages, human error or cyberattacks, you can retrieve your belongings (recover your data) from a secure location.

Automation vs. Security

We can’t stress this enough: While cloud storage allows for manual selection of files for storage, it’s cloud backup services that facilitate automated backup procedures. And in the end, this is what saves businesses time and improves productivity and efficiency.

Most cloud storage solutions lack data encryption features or only allow encryption on the server side, making your data vulnerable during transfer. At SkyTerra, we focus heavily on data protection and modernization. We offer robust online backup services that ensure your data is encrypted throughout all stages of a data transfer to the cloud.

Exploring Different Types of Cloud Storage

Cloud-based solutions fuel growth and power other digital transformation tools like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to provide added layers of security. The cloud can help you build a better network and prepare your business for the future.

There are many types of cloud solutions; it’s important to find what’s right for you:

Public cloud service offers a multi-tenant environment that provides clients with a pay-as-you-go model, ideal for unpredictable traffic. The public cloud provides the flexibility to scale and add capacity as your applications and demand grow.
Private cloud is built for organizations that want the flexibility of the cloud while maintaining control, access and security of dedicated resources. The private cloud offers a single-tenant environment with dedicated servers for maximum protection and performance. The environment allows you to “customize” based on your specific need.
Hybrid cloud allows for greater flexibility and scale by combining public cloud and private cloud and single-tenant environments. With hybrid cloud solutions, you can connect dedicated environments to the private and public clouds of your choice.

While cloud solutions offer a range of benefits, understanding their nuances, especially regarding security and backups, is crucial for making informed choices that align with your business goals and data protection needs. Let us guide you in navigating the complexities of the cloud and help you implement the most suitable solution for your organization. Contact us or book a meeting with one of our technology consultants today.

Posted in Cloud Services