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Once you’ve decided to use online data storage for your small business, it’s important that you take some time and look at the companies available to find the one that works the best with the needs of your business. If you are going to keep client information and other sensitive data with a site, you should make sure you are comfortable with the site and can use it to your advantage. In order to make sure that the site you use is efficient and the best for your business, you should research into certain key aspects of the storage site.
Security Features
The first and most important thing you should look into when deciding which site to use is the security feature each site utilizes to ensure your privacy without causing you additional hassle or slowing down your efficiency. Though most will probably be fairly similar, some sites will have additional features that keep your data safer.
The site you choose should have an encryption/decryption process you feel comfortable with, and it should have a simple way to allow others access to specific files without giving them the master decryption key for your files. The site should also allow you to create keys that are easy to remember–like long phrases–because writing down a password will compromise the safety of your data.
Current Customers
A list of the companies that use a specific site can give you a good feel for the types of businesses the site caters to. If they have a large variety of customers and have a high customer rating, the site will probably work well for you. If you find that the site seems to be used solely by accountants, it might not have features you’re looking for unless you’re an accountant. Newer sites with few customers may be able to give you specialized customer care, but a more seasoned company will have fewer glitches and a more refined system.
Additional Applications
To help create efficiency and be worth the expense, your storage site should do more than just hold on to your data for you. Many sites have extra features to make it more convenient for those running a business, like the ability to create and send links to documents rather than sending the documents themselves, as well as allowing certain people access to change documents directly on the site without giving them your login information. Check out each company’s additional features before you choose one so you can find the one that works best with the needs of your business.
Online data storage is a good choice for your business, but it’s important that you choose a storage site that works best for you and your needs. If you take some time to research your options and take advantage of free trials that are available, you will find a company that fits well with your business and makes you more efficient, keeps your data safe, and has additional features that you can utilize often. If you’re giving a company your money, you want to get the best bang for your buck.
Marshal Tuck writes for a tech blog. Click here to get more information on data storage.