Cloud-based solutions for online digital file storage have begun to grow in popularity, most notably among small to mid-size businesses. However, there are distinct benefits to using on-premise and hybrid solutions as well. The pros to each should be taken into consideration when choosing and implementing a system for brand asset storage or a marketing portal.

Advantages of Cloud-Based Digital File Storage Solutions:

1. Low startup costs.

   The biggest benefit to cloud storage is cost. It’s a predictable monthly cost where you only pay for what you use for as long as you use it. The setup fees are also typically minimal and there are no hardware investments. Most of the popular online digital file storage services like Google Drive, iCloud, One Drive and Dropbox offer free service levels for limited capacity users.

2. Data integrity and accessibility.

   With the cloud, you get daily backups so there is little risk of losing data. You also get remote accessibility and file sharing capabilities from any location with internet access. The integrity of the data is also handled by the vendor, leaving your IT department free to do more pressing things.

3. Scalability.

   As your business needs change, you can easily scale up or scale down depending on your current needs. You have complete control of your storage options at all times, making cloud-based storage great for fluctuating work loads.

Advantages of On-Device/On-Premise Digital File Storage Solutions:

1. Customization

   Keeping your data on-premise offers a customizable experience that can be made more user-friendly with minimal vendor interference, yet still accessible through secure VPN controls. This allows you to build a system that conforms to your business rather than the other way around.

2. Data security and speed.

   On-premise software is installed locally on the company’s own servers or computers, offering the highest level of security for sensitive data. In addition, the speed for downloading files can often be twice as fast compared to downloading from online digital storage services.

3. Lower operating costs.

   Usually, on-premise software is billed up front with no monthly operating fees. It is therefore considered a capital investment rather than an operating expense.

Advantages of Hybrid Digital File Storage Solutions:

1. Cloud storage of passive data.

   Much of the data accumulated by any company is considered passive data. This passive data is rarely accessed but still takes up valuable storage space when replicated, duplicated and protected. This is the type of data that could be inexpensively moved to cloud storage options like Amazon Web Services or iCloud.

2. Accessible but secure.

   Cost of entry is lower than private or on-premise storage, but still offers the faster response time of on-premise for frequently accessed data. Plus you get much more control of data that is too sensitive for a public cloud. This hybrid solution is useful for companies with employees that need to be able to access certain data off premises, but still limits the possibility of large-scale breeches.

3. Best of Both Options:

   Hybrid solutions should integrate on-premise and cloud-based systems seamlessly, offering the best of both worlds.

There are various options and benefits to consider when looking into business solutions for digital file storage needs. Businesses of all sizes can find a system perfect for them. One size doesn’t fit all, but there is a size and a solution to perfectly fit your needs.

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