This series is designed as a way to call attention to things, practices, places, activities, or anything else you might not be aware of that I think are worth checking out. I try to cover as wide a variety of topics as I can. This week is all about cloud storage. Cloud storage services have been around for several years, but most people were largely unaware of them until Apple launched its iCloud service in Fall 2011. While it works well for some things, like photos, calendars, and contacts, it has been widely criticized as lacking as an overall service, particularly by those used to Apple’s soon-to-be-defunct MobileMe service, which was much more robust. Today I’ll offer up my favourite cloud storage services. They will all work on any platform and, best of all, they’re all free.
This is the service I use the most, because it’s so simple and versatile. Sign up for a free Dropbox account and install the program on any computer or device you’d like – PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Blackberry. You’ll now have a new Dropbox folder. It behaves exactly like any other folder on your computer or phone – you can drag and drop to it, save, delete, whatever you want. The only difference is that anything you place in this folder will instantly be available on all of your other devices. It works for all types of files and is ridiculously easy. You can even set up a special folder that allows others to access it via the internet. The reason I prefer this service over some of the others is that it doesn’t require learning how to use a new program to upload and download files. It works just like all your other folders and files sync automatically. If you want to sign up, just click here (as a bonus, signing up via that link nets us both some extra space).
Evernote is another great program, this time focused on storing short notes, pictures, and voice recordings. To use it, you sign up for an account and install the program on any computer or mobile device you’d like. You can then create notes that are instantly accessible across all your devices. I use it to save lists, things I’ve found online that I’ll need later, to make myself voice memos, and to remember products in stores.
The third and final service for today it Google Docs. You can use it to upload, store, and edit any Office file, as well as create brand new documents, spreadsheets, slideshows, forms, and more. It’s a great way to keep your documents organized and accessible. Additionally, since it allows you to set up documents to be accessible to a select group of other people, or even the internet at large, it’s a great tool for collaboration and group work. To use it, all you need is a Google account.
That’s it for today. I hope you try out some of these services, and if you know of any other good ones, be sure to let me know.
Sleep well,
DTE
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