Online storage is the process of storing digital data on remote servers that can be accessed via the internet. Whether you’re looking for a personal or business solution, the right cloud storage provider can save you time, money and hassle should your files ever get lost, damaged or corrupted.

The best online storage and backup providers are scalable and flexible. Most services offer free plans with limited storage capacity, while paid plans start at around $1 a month for up to 2TB of space. You can also opt for a monthly or annual subscription with unlimited storage.

There are dozens of different cloud storage providers, each with their own set of features and price point. Most of them are accessible through desktop and mobile apps for iPhone, Android and Windows devices. Some even have a web portal for more advanced users. Some also provide APIs for additional functionality and integration with other software systems.

Some providers also allow you to use an external drive to store data on the cloud, allowing you to access your files from any computer with a connection to the internet. This allows you to work from home or on the go, irrespective of where you are, and helps keep your important files within reach at all times.

When choosing a provider, it’s worth checking their data security standards and protocols. Many of them will offer password protection, encryption and other data security measures to ensure the safety of your files. They may also have policies in place for dealing with a data loss event, such as restoring a previous version of a file.

Choosing the best online storage for your needs depends on how much data you need to store and the number of devices that will need to access it. For example, if you’re an Apple user, your Mac and iPhone will automatically sync with iCloud Drive, which provides 5GB of storage free of charge. You can also buy more iCloud storage or choose a more affordable plan from iDrive, which offers a range of features including online backup, cloud storage and file syncing and sharing.

For those who need to collaborate with a team, look for an online storage and backup service that enables easy file sharing and collaboration. Ideally, your chosen provider should also facilitate real-time collaboration so that team members can view and edit the same file in the same session.

The best online storage for documents includes providers that offer generous amounts of free storage, good compatibility with various file formats and solid mobile apps. They should also enable you to share large files and have file versioning for added peace of mind.

While online storage is a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods, it’s still wise to back up your important files on an external hard drive in case the worst happens. It’s also a great way to save space on your devices and stop your computer from overheating.