External hard drive v Cloud type storage

[TrickyNicky]

Having just had major issues with our desktop and nearly losing all the data and pictures, my husband and I urgently need to find a backup solution. We can purchase an external hard drive for desktop and another for my laptop but wonder whether we would be better using Drop Box or Cloud and Share type subscriptions instead. What are the pros and cons of each? Ideally we could do with something which automatically backs up when we use either computer rather than having to spend time transferring stuff manually. Either that or a simple one click solution if such a thing exists.

 

Any comments gratefully received and digested!

[Synapse]

Personally I use both. Large files, photo archives and the like are stored on computer and copied to my external drive. I don't have any particular routine for this, just once in a while I decide it is time for a delete, clearout and backup.

 

I also use cloud storage, so Dropbox, Skydrive and Google's Drive. Dropbox I am not using right now, although I like it, Skydrive I use because it both backs up Office docs and enables me to open them natively and then save again, and Google Drive as I just like it.

 

Cloud storage for me is a great way to store important documents that I use regularly, know I have a backup, and I am able to access them easily.

 

I wouldn't pay for lots of backup storage as I think an external hard drive works out cheaper in the long run, and also uploading Gigabytes of data could take a long time, and finally because I don't want a continuous sync going on in the background for large files.

 

Most half decent external drives come with backup software which will automatically back up for you, saving you hassle.

[zonebtec]

Dear Tricky Nicky,

 

As per your comment, please follow this links to the pros and cons of cloud storage- http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/5-cloud-storage-options-pros-and-cons-of-each-178551

 

I hope this helps,

 

Regards,

[TrickyNicky]

Thanks zonebtec. Checked the link. There are more storage options than I realised. I also know PC World sell two - a basic and a bells and whistles one which allows sharing. Has anyone any experience of these at all.

 

Thanks again