Transferring Files Between Computers: Options - Option Four: Online File Storage
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The final option we will discuss today is online file storage. In this scenario, you upload the files you want to transfer to a secure location on the Internet, so you could download them from another machine.
The better services that are available for this don't just open an FTP for you, they give you ways to make accessing them quite easy. For example, iDrive (pictured above) allows you to map your online storage area as a drive on your computer. Using this method, you can just drag and drop your files and they will automatically be uploaded to the server so you can access them from another computer. These services, while advanced, typically require a fee.
There are some services, like fileXoom and Box.net, which have free file storage available online. But these services seem more geared towards users wanting to share their files with others, not someone looking for a secure place to save their documents for backup or transfer purposes.
One thing to keep in mind, especially if the files you need to transfer are large, is that this option is only as fast as your Internet connection. If you don't have access to the Internet, or slow access at one of the locations, then this option may not be for you.
Pros:
- No hardware to move around.
- Better services have software to emulate logical drives.
- Files available from anywhere with Internet connection.
Cons:
- Requires fast Internet connection for larger files.
- Huge files take forever to upload.
- Better services charge a fee.
Next: Final Thoughts >>
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