Flexible cloud storage for backups: how it works with the Mac
In addition to iCloud, Dropbox & Co., there are surprisingly inexpensive business-class cloud storage solutions. All you need is a little independent software.
(Image: KI Bildgenerierung mit Freepik)
When it comes to cloud storage, many people first think of Apple's iCloud, Dropbox or Microsoft's OneDrive. These consumer clouds are user-friendly and practical for simply synchronizing or storing files. However, one major disadvantage is that they are poorly suited for backups, if at all: This is because what is deleted locally also disappears immediately from cloud storage and all synchronized devices. Providers such as Apple and Dropbox also only offer a limited "security period" for restoring accidentally deleted data.
- Cloud object storage can serve as a flexible backup solution with the right macOS tool.
- The business offerings of the eight providers presented here can also be cheaper than backup services for private users.
- Thanks to open protocols, you are not tied to a service's backup tool.
The usual cloud solutions usually come with their own software and often do not work well with independent third-party tools. With the flexible online storage solutions presented here, on the other hand, you have more freedom. These so-called object storage systems (more on this in a moment) are basically barebone clouds that are actually intended for business customers: Instead of using specific cloud clients, developers can address the storage directly in web applications, for example – and there are some compatible tools for end customers. Thanks to the sometimes low prices, these offerings are also ideal for private offsite backups outside of your own four walls.
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Although dedicated online backup services such as Arq Premium, Backblaze Computer Backup or IDrive Personal are based on object storage, in-house software is often required here. There are also certain storage or device limits. This is not really relevant for individual users, but can quickly become expensive or inefficient if several devices are involved.
The storage systems presented here can generally be accessed via Amazon's powerful S3 protocol; some providers use SFTP/SSH, WebDAV and SMB instead or as an alternative. This makes these storage systems behave more like online hard drives or web-based NAS than classic cloud storage with synchronization.
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