CLOUD STORAGE, NORTHAMPTON 

Storing your files in the cloud provides a dependable alternative to relying solely on your local device. Should your hard drive fail, your vital business documents remain secure and within easy reach online. 

Whatever the size of your business, there is a cloud storage solution that will suit you. 

Many small businesses turn to cloud storage platforms like Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, or iCloud. Although these services usually come with a limited amount of free space, it’s often not enough for business use. Most providers offer paid options, with storage available all the way up to 30TB. 
Cloud storage comes with a range of benefits, including the ability to access files from virtually anywhere and keep them in sync across multiple devices such as phones and tablets. 
 
However, there are limitations to be aware of. When multiple people open and edit the same file at once, there’s a risk of losing changes or ending up with conflicting versions. 
 
For individuals, cloud storage is often more than sufficient, which makes it ideal for sole traders or new start-ups. But larger teams in Northampton are likely to benefit more from a cloud storage solution that’s tailored to their specific needs. 

Are you file sharing across your Northampton-based internal network? 

Some businesses rely on internal file-sharing systems to prevent multiple team members from editing the same document at once. While this can help minimise version conflicts, it does rely on the main host computer being switched on and fully operational at all times. 
 
Updates to the operating system can also affect these setups, sometimes changing or disabling the configuration. More importantly, if the hard drive on the host machine fails, it could result in the permanent loss of valuable business information. 

Online File Sharing 

Microsoft SharePoint helps teams collaborate efficiently by ensuring that, when configured properly, only one person edits a document at a time. This prevents version clashes and allows your Northampton team to manage shared files with confidence. 
 
A variety of SharePoint plans are available, many of which include extra tools designed to benefit smaller businesses. As all documents are stored online, they can be accessed remotely, making it easier to stay connected and productive from virtually anywhere. 

Cloud Servers 

For larger organisations, a Cloud Server is the most cost-effective solution. As unlike an on site server, there are no hardware or maintenance costs. 
 

How safe is cloud storage? 

Cloud storage typically offers a higher level of security than most standard computers. Files are encrypted while uploading, ensuring they remain protected in transit, and stay encrypted while stored on the servers. 
 
In addition, these platforms employ advanced firewalls, intrusion monitoring, access restrictions, activity tracking, and strict physical security protocols — all designed to keep your business data safe and secure. 
 
The data centres where cloud servers are housed are safeguarded by rigorous security measures. These often include 24/7 surveillance, biometric access controls like fingerprint scanners, and in certain cases, even armed personnel. 
 
However, the most common weakness in cloud storage isn’t the technology — it’s people. Over 40% of data breaches are the result of human error, usually due to staff mistakes or poor handling of sensitive information. 
 
What if a cloud server breaks, will I lose my data? 
All cloud storage services duplicate your data across several servers, so your information stays safe even if one server experiences a hardware failure. 
 
That said, cloud providers cannot guarantee complete protection of your data in every circumstance. Therefore, it is essential to keep an independent backup. Get in touch with us to discover more about our Cloud-to-Cloud backup solutions tailored specifically for businesses in Northampton. 
GET IN TOUCH 
 
If you would a free consultation to discuss cloud storage for your business, please call us on 01327 300311 or complete our short contact form. 
Keba Computers – we put the IT in Quality.