5 cool things you can do with cloud backup

Cloud backup: The cool factor

Sure, you want those one-of-a-kind family photos and important files of every kind taken care of—but what else can the cloud do for you?

We’ll take a look at the basic benefits of cloud backup, plus show you a few other ways backing up your computer can be an everyday gamechanger:

1. Your stuff follows you near and far.

First and foremost: the basics. Storing and syncing files and folders in the cloud not only frees up lots of space on your device, you also get the peace of mind that comes with getting your own secure, personal online storage you can access from just about any device—PC, Mac, on the web or on a mobile app—anytime, anywhere. If anything ever happens to your actual computer or device, your files are still protected in the cloud.

Best of all, gone are the days you can’t pull up a photo, presentation or some other file just because you happen to be on the go. With your files now stored and backed up in the cloud, it’s all at your fingertips.

So, how much will all this set you back? How does zero bucks sound? Many cloud providers offer plans with a pretty nice amount of storage for free, with the ability to upgrade to a larger amount for a reasonable price.

2. Connect, click and share with family and friends.

With all your files, folders and photos in the cloud, it’s easy to share with family and friends on the fly. But imagine if your cloud storage provider had a sharing feature that lets you create your own group of people and then easily share files, photos, videos, and albums with that group.

Think of the possibilities: wedding parties, sports teams, parent or volunteer groups, girls-night-out clubs, poker buddies—anyone you want to stay connected with is right at your fingertips. Once you create your group(s), you would just select the file or folder you want to share and select the name of the group you created. Soon, everyone in the group gets an invite and, once they accept, they can see, share and be part of the action.

3. Forget the safe—how about your own virtual vault?

Chances are you have paperwork like wills, insurance documents, birth certificates, social security cards, videos, passport info, mortgage or vehicle titles stored somewhere in your home. But where? Hopefully they’re in a fireproof safe or maybe a safety deposit box—and not in your mattress.

Imagine, though, the peace of mind of having your very own virtual vault backing up your most-sensitive documents. Sure, your regular files in the cloud have a high level of protection, but some providers offer you a “vault” in the cloud that requires you to unlock it using extra levels of security, like your fingerprint, face, SMS code or other methods. The vault should have features like an automatic relock after a short period of inactivity, as well as reauthentication to access it. Now, your files stay safe and you can easily reach them no matter where you are. No mattress storage required.

4. Scan, sign, save and send on-the-go.

How many times have the kids left their permission slips (or maybe report cards or school picture forms) at home and forgot to have you sign them. No worries. A good cloud storage solution should have a scan, sign, save and send feature that you can access right in the app. No more running to school or having your kids miss out—just scan it, sign electronically, save it, send it on its way—and you’re done. Imagine the possibilities!

5. Up your game.

Sure, your personal cloud works across all your favorite devices—but what about gaming consoles like Xbox One, for example? If so, it’s game on! Imagine capturing those amazing moments (and being able to edit and personalize them) and then use the cloud to share them with the gaming community or on social media. Pull up your fiercest battle or white knuckle, heart-pounding race and share it with everyone right from your phone or tablet.
What else can you do? Since everything is saved across your devices, you can also use your console to browse and then show off all your stored pics and videos (gaming or otherwise) on the big screen.

Now that you have a better understanding of not only the basic benefits of cloud backup—but also few cool features you may not have known about—what are you waiting for? It’s time to back up your computer or other device to the cloud and experience the ultimate in sharing, collaborating, convenience and peace of mind.