Friday, March 2, 2007

Online File Storage - new and improved!

Online File Storage

Before the dotcom bubble burst in 2000 many of the internet startup’s had some great ideas. Everything from chat based tech support to auction based Christmas card designs. Then it went by the way of the dodo bird. With Web 2.0 innovations making headlines, we are now starting to see the second generation of more great innovations and ideas.

Online file storage for example is nothing new, however has been a great tool for the internet reliant traveler. It’s not as convenient as a USB drive, conversely though can’t be accidentally washed in the rinse cycle, but is available wherever and whenever you need it.

The concept of internet file storage is similar to FTP (file transfer protocol) where you upload your files to a location on a server on the internet. You then download the files as needed, which are stored and accessed on your local pc or laptop. The major enhancement to modern online file storage services is speed and user friendliness. No more ftp client installations and configuring on the computer, just open the website address in your browser, login using your credentials and you have instant access to your files and folders.

High speed internet is the primary factor in limilighting online storage because you can literally run your business using web based applications. Files can be stored and opened from your online storage service, without ever having to keep them on your hard drive. You can run from USB drives, and use online storage to complete your tasks.

There are several providers of these services, such as http://box.net/, http://www.omnidrive.com/, and http://www.openmy.com/. Their services differ in features, price and offerings; however most seem to offer 1Gb of free storage and 10Gb of traffic (monthly upload and download). Subscriptions are required for more file storage and more monthly bandwidth.