10 safest cloud storage for small business
The phrase “knowledge is power” is still very applicable in 2024 because of ongoing advancements and changes to the ways in which we obtain, analyze, and utilize information. However, there are numerous challenges in storing and handling thousands of terabytes (TB) of data. It is extremely hard to keep your data safe.
Cloud storage has many advantages for data storage and management, making it a popular solution for large and small businesses both. However, in light of recent technological developments and cyberattacks, you should choose among the safest cloud storage options to support the growth of your small business. It is important to understand what is cloud storage ?
What is cloud storage?
Cloud storage is an excellent way for businesses to securely store their data. It operates on the principle that data is stored on multiple servers or locations, protecting the others in case that one is compromised. Instead of carrying your hard drives and USBs with you everywhere you go, cloud storage allows you to access data from anywhere on the internet.
The greatest advantage is that cloud storage is more affordable, especially for small businesses, because it is available on a subscription or pay-as-you-go model. Before choosing any cloud storage you should consider some important features they must have. Of course safety must be at the top. But how to choose safest cloud storage for your business.
Easy Integration with Google Workspace apps like Google Docs, Sheets, Slides
Google Drive
Provides you extra layer of security with biometric or PIN protected access using personal vault
Microsoft OneDrive
We can use it with wide variety of tools whether communication platforms like slack or google workspaces
Dropbox Business
Provides high level of data encryption, can creates multiple profiles with unique fingerprints
Box
Manages the multiple accounts by separate browser profiles having unique fingerprints.
Jottacloud
Factors to consider while choosing cloud storage for your buisness
Choosing best storage for your business can make big difference in your development. But what should be considered while choosing cloud storage that is safest and cost effective for you. Below are key factors to consider and we evaluate all cloud storages according to that. We also summarized 15 must have features before choosing cloud storage for your business.
Cost and Pricing: Storage solution should fits within your budget.
Scalability: This can help your storage to grow with your business without disruption.
Data Encryption: To protect sensitive information from unauthorized access.
Threat Detection: Identify and mitigate potential security threats in real-time.
Access Controls Management: Manage who can access your data, ensuring only authorized personnel have access.
Compliance Standards: Should meet industry regulations and legal requirement.
1. Google Drive: Best for Google services Lovers
Google Drive provides an efficient cloud storage solution. It has many security features that make it a safe choice, such as transcription in transit and at rest. This makes data unreadable while transferring and storing. It uses 256-bit AES and TLS encryption to make the unauthorized access hard.
Google drive is tightly integrated with Google Workspace apps like Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms. This makes it easy to create, edit, and store documents directly in Google Drive. It also supports backup, which is crucial for business purposes and Data Loss Prevention.
Best features of google drive
Offers free Storage: It offers 15 GB of free storage shared across Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos. You can get its latest pricing plan here.
Seamless Integration: Easy Integration with Google Workspace apps like Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, and Google Calendar.
Automatic Backup: Automatic backup of selected folders from your computer to Google Drive.
Works with out internet: You can view and edit files without an internet connection.
File Sharing is simple: Easily share files and folders with others by sending a link
Safety standards: It provides robust security measures, including encryption , two-factor authentication and detailed access control settings.
Tools and pricing plan
We recommend to always look for latest Pricing plans
2. Microsoft OneDrive for Business: Best for Microsoft Lovers
It is a reliable storage for small businesses. Microsoft offers a set of security features with an integration with other Microsoft products. This collaboration allows users to access documents on Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. It uses advanced encryption protocols to make stored data unreadable.
It also supports two-factor verification and ransomware detection and recovery. This protects data from cyber threats. Moreover, Data loss Prevention enables the monitoring and control of the sharing of sensitive information. Users also enjoy administrative controls to tailor security-sensitive data.
Best features of Microsoft OneDrive
Offers free Storage: It offers 5 GB of free storage which is slightly less than google drive free storage (15GB). You can get its latest pricing plan here.
Seamless Integration: Easy Integration with Microsoft 365 applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Personal Vault: Provides you extra layer of security with biometric or PIN protected access.
Restore files: You can restore files if corrupted or deleted accidently.
Search files: You can search files quickly using keywords, metadata, or file types.
File sharing: The process is simple same as google you can share files with others via a link or email..
Business price plan
We recommend to always look for latest Pricing plans
3. Dropbox Business:Best for synching with other tools
Dropbox Business offers a range of features designed to enhance collaboration with other services and tools. We use it for google and Microsoft work spaces and it works perfectly with both of them. The administrators can manage team members and monitor account behavior through audit logs. Moreover, users can remotely wipe data from lost devices, which enhances security.
Its centralized admin console helps manage user accounts, monitor activity and control permissions. We found its interface very attractive and easy to manage where you can find you files easily. If you want to share something simply go to the file and your desired photo, document or video whatever you want and share it without any interruption.
Best features of Dropbox Business
Attractive working environment: It has collaborative workspace that allows teams to create, edit, and share documents and manage projects.
Customized sharing: You can customize sharing process by managing permission for your business members and employees.
Synchronization across devices: You can use it on any device whether windows, iOS or mac.
Third party integration: You can use it with wide variety of tools whether communication platforms like slack or google workspaces like google documents it will work perfectly.
Activity Monitoring : Track every activity and generate detailed audit log which helps you provide safe working environment.
Centralized Admin Console: We can manage accounts, activities, and permissions from a centralized admin console.
Business price plan
We recommend to always look for latest Pricing plans
4. Box: Best for new buisness
It is a highly regarded cloud storage for small businesses. It has many security features and collaboration tools. Box has compliance with industry standards such as HIPPA, GDRP, and FINRA. If you have a small business you can simply contact with the team and make a custom plan for yourself.
It provides enterprise-grade security with features like file encryption, secure data centers, and granular permissions. Moreover, collaboration with Microsoft 365 enhances productivity. Despite these advanced features, it is convenient to use.
Best features of Box
Amazing collaboration interface : You can save your time by working with team members in real time environment by assigning tasks and sharing your thoughts.
Safety with encryption: Box have advanced standards of encrypted safety standards with isolated data centers and granular permissions.
Third party integration: You can use it on any device and third-party applications such as Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, Slack etc.
Reliable document sharing: File sharing process is simple,, just upload the file to box and share “public” link with any of your business partner.
Offline access available : It allows users to keep their files accessible on their desktop, even when offline.
Scalability: It offers various storage plans that can scale to meet the needs of small businesses to large enterprises.
Business price plan
We recommend to always look for latest Pricing plans
5. Jottacloud: Best For Privacy concerned
It is a secure cloud storage which is based in Norway and benefits from Norwegian privacy laws. Jottacloud provides unlimited storage space with automatic photo backup on all devices. It is unmatched in the media organization. The mobile app displays memories in the gallery. You won’t need any separate backup tool as it has automatic backup options and replaces many cloud storage solutions.
It provides security through rest and in-transit encryption and two-factor verification. It adheres to a no-logging policy; it does not share or track users’ activities. Therefore, it is a private cloud storage option.
Best features of Jottacloud
Security and Privacy: Transfer 256-bit AES encryption and stores data in Norway, benefiting from strong privacy standards.
Unlimited storage: It offers plans basic as well as unlimited storage, ideal for users with large amounts of data.
Media management: You can play your videos and photos without downloading that helps you to manage files as you can delete unnecessary old files.
Performance speed: Provides a stable and reliable cloud storage service with minimal downtime.
Backup : Choose specific files and folders to back up, providing control so you can customize your storage according to your needs.
File sharing: File sharing like other cloud storages is easy, you can share securely, using password protection and expiration dates.
Business price plan
We recommend to always look for latest Pricing plans
6. Koofr: Best for Multi-Cloud Integration
It meets the needs of many small businesses via its innovative functionalities. Koofr emphasizes user privacy and data protection. Users can manage multiple accounts from different platforms. We find its interface really attractive and easy to understand. Koofr keeps records of file versions. iOS and Android both support Koofr.
Moreover, it is a safe cloud storage as it uses strong encryption protocols. It also restricts data protection regulations such as GDRP. Koofr redundant backups to ensure data durability. Further, with its detailed activity logs, users can monitor access and changes in documents.
Best features of Koofr
Integration with Other cloud Services: it Integrates easily with other cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive.
Media Streaming: Stream videos and music directly from the cloud.
Cross-Platform Access: Available on all platforms like Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android devices.
File sharing: You can share files with anyone using links that can be made public or private and set expiration time.
Activity Monitoring : Record every activity and Keep track of and restore previous versions of files.
User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive and attractive interface which is best suited for small and new businesses.
Business price plan
We recommend to always look for latest Pricing plans
7. IDrive: Best for SIngle account backup
It emphasizes security and comprehensive backup options. It allows both local and cloud backups that determine layers of data protection. Moreover, it stores the most recent changes in the files, with no requirement for manual backups. Similarly, it records thirty old versions of all files in the account which is useful for data recovery.
Furthermore, it supports backup on an unlimited number of devices, such as PCs, Macs, and Android. Users can choose encryption keys that are not even stored on servers. It protects data and provides point-in-time recovery. Hence, it is a safe and versatile cloud store where data is accessible at all times.
Best features of IDrive
Amazing Backup: Back up a limitless amount of devices using a single account. Its hybrid backup capability is its finest feature, combining the benefits of cloud and local storage.
End-to-End Encryption: Provides AES 256-bit encryption during transfer and at rest.
Deleted File Retention: Keeps deleted files for 30 days, which is good incase of accidental deletions.
IDrive Photos: A dedicated app that allows for limitless photo and video storage helps to organize things better.
User-Friendly Interface: Simple and intuitive interface, making it easy for users of all technical levels
Business price plan
We recommend to always look for latest Pricing plans
8. pCloud: Best for media storage
It offers pCloud crypto to encrypt the files on the device before storing them on the cloud. The data is secured as only users have the encryption keys. Unlike other cloud storage, it offers lifetime plans for long-term storage. On standard plans, it keeps the old versions for thirty days, and with history added, you can have the old versions for a whole year. This provides recovery for accidental deletions.
It also supports backups from other platforms to consolidate data into a single secure location. Furthermore, with its zero-knowledge privacy and GDPR compliance, data is safe and protected. Moreover, it stores data in certified centers in Europe and the US.
Best features of pCloud
Free storage available: Offers a range of storage options, including free plans of 10 GB and paid plans up to 2 TB.
Customized sharing: You can customize sharing process by managing permission for your business members and employees.
Synchronization across devices: You can use it on any device whether windows, iOS or mac.
Pcloud Pass: Additional service offered is a password manager provided by pCloud, designed to help users securely store and manage their passwords that has its free version available.
Activity Monitoring : You can share all kinds of files on using pcloud. Stream videos and photos directly from the cloud without downloading that helps in better management.
Automatic backup: Automatically back up photos and videos from your mobile devices to the cloud.
Business price plan
We recommend to always look for latest Pricing plans
9. Egnyte: Best for Hybrid storage
It addresses the needs of small and large businesses through advanced features and collaboration tools. It allows the utilization of cloud and on-premises storage for scalability and re. remote access. Organizations can keep data on local servers. Moreover, administrators can set specific access rights for certain members.
Furthermore, encryption protocols and compliance with industry regulations maintain the security of data. Its hybrid model offers an extra layer of data protection. It would not be wrong to say that Egnite is a secure and reliable cloud storage.
Best features of Egnyte
Hybrid Storage: Combines the benefits of cloud and on-premises storage, giving you to the choice to use both storages.
Real-Time Collaboration: Allows multiple users to collaborate on documents in real-time and share with all business members.
File Locking: Prevents file conflicts by allowing users to lock files while working on them.
High-Speed Transfers: Offers fast upload and download speeds for reliable and efficient file transfers.
User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive and easy-to-use interface with simple drag-and-drop.
Business price plan
We recommend to always look for latest Pricing plans
10. MEGA: Best for Large data storage
It strongly emphasizes security and advanced features. It allows encryption of files on the client device before uploading. This ensures the additional layer of security. MEGA itself does not have the keys to decrypt files. It also offers a free storage plan, where new users get 20 GB free space. Whereas, paid plan offers more than 16 TB which is more than competitors.
It also offers a secure end to end encrypted chat option within platform. Moreover, the storef fles can be accessed from multiple devices, desktop and mobile versions for distributed workforce. Hence, it is a secure storage option with safe communication tools and free storage plan, it worth a try.
Best features of MEGA
Amazing Free Storage: Offers 20 GB of free storage to new users that is its best part you can try it if have a new startup.
More safety concerned: All files are encrypted on the client side before being uploaded and can only be decrypted by client itself.
Synchronization across devices: Available on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, ensuring seamless access across different devices.
Encrypted Chat: Its distinguishing feature is secure messaging and video calls through the MEGAchat platform.
File uploading by others: It also Allow others to upload files to your MEGA account via a secure link.
Business price plan
We recommend to always look for latest Pricing plans
Final recommendation
Cloud storage offers a convenient alternative to physical devices, with numerous safe and reputable options available. Here are the top 10 choices, many of which provide initial free storage: MEGA offers 20 GB of free storage and robust security features, while Google Drive is ideal for users of Google Workspace. Each service has unique benefits tailored to different needs. MEGA stands out for its generous free storage and advanced safety features, whereas Google Drive integrates seamlessly with Google’s productivity tools. Choose the option that best fits your requirements for security, storage capacity, and integration.
