Symbolic image of pink clouds – Cloud Computing – What is cloud storage

What is cloud storage – and what really matters when choosing one?

Cloud storage today is much more than just a virtual filing cabinet. For those who work on the go, share files, or want to store data securely, cloud storage is almost essential. It offers location-independent access and flexible scalability. But how does cloud storage actually work? What are the differences between public, private, and hybrid cloud? And how can you identify a secure provider? This article offers a clear and easy-to-understand overview for individuals, teams, and businesses.

What Is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing refers to the delivery of IT resources over the internet. This includes storage space, computing power, or applications – all without the need for local hardware or infrastructure. Users access services via an internet connection that run centrally in data centers. Instead of operating their own servers, businesses or individuals use the computing power of external providers. This saves effort, reduces costs, and enables rapid scalability. Cloud computing thus forms the technical foundation for any cloud storage solution.

Cloud Services: IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS at a Glance

Cloud computing goes far beyond just storage space. Depending on the application, there are three main cloud service models: IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS. These are the foundation for many digital processes in both business and everyday life.

  • Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) allows users to rent individual IT resources such as computing power or storage. The infrastructure is provided and managed by the provider. This offers flexibility and eliminates the need for investment in own servers.

  • Platform as a Service (PaaS) is aimed primarily at developers. The provider offers a platform with tools, interfaces, and runtime environments. Applications can be developed, tested, and deployed directly there.

  • Software as a Service (SaaS) refers to the use of ready-to-use software via the internet without installation. Applications like word processors, calendars or team communication run directly in the browser. The provider handles maintenance and security.

What Is Cloud Storage?

Cloud storage is a digital storage space accessible via the internet. Instead of storing data locally, it is encrypted and stored on external servers – usually in large data centers. Users access it via browser, app, or API, no matter where they are working.

Cloud storage makes file sharing easy, protects data from loss, and scales flexibly depending on how much space is needed. Unlike local solutions, maintenance, updates, and security are typically the provider’s responsibility. For companies, this means no expensive infrastructure, no dedicated server rooms, but constant access to up-to-date data. Cloud storage is also widely used privately, especially for photos, documents, or smartphone backups.

Advantages of Secure Cloud Storage

Cloud storage offers many benefits in daily life and business operations. Those who work digitally gain flexibility, save resources, and reduce dependency on local infrastructure. A key advantage: location-independent access – whether in the office, on the go, or working from home. This facilitates team collaboration and supports modern work models.

If a flexible cloud storage grows with your needs, new capacity can be added anytime without hardware upgrades. Additionally, maintenance, updates, and security no longer burden the user. The provider ensures availability, maintains the infrastructure, and stores data in certified data centers. For companies, this lowers barriers to digital processes. Even small teams can use professional solutions without building their own IT.

Disadvantages of Cloud Storage

Depending on how it’s used, cloud storage can also pose challenges. One potential drawback is internet dependency. Without a stable connection, access to data may be limited. Bandwidth is also a factor, especially when working with large files.

Another concern is data privacy. Using services outside Europe requires caution: some providers are subject to laws incompatible with GDPR. In the U.S., authorities can access stored data in certain cases – sometimes without a court order. Also, costs can rise with data volume. What seems affordable at first may become expensive, especially with rigid pricing models.

What Types of Cloud Storage Exist?

Depending on use case and security requirements, different cloud storage models may be suitable: Public, Private, or Hybrid Cloud. Each has its benefits. What matters most is your specific need and data sensitivity.

Public Cloud

In a Public Cloud, a provider offers storage for many clients at once. Data is stored in shared infrastructure but logically separated. This model is cost-effective, easily scalable, and ideal for general use – such as backups or team projects.

Private Cloud

Private Clouds are accessible only to a specific company or user group. Infrastructure is either fully self-hosted or exclusively reserved with the provider. It’s a good choice for handling sensitive data or meeting strict data protection regulations.

Hybrid Cloud

The Hybrid Cloud combines both models: less critical data goes into the Public Cloud, while sensitive information stays in the Private Cloud. This offers a high level of data protection with flexibility – especially attractive for mid-sized businesses with diverse needs.

Is the Cloud Automatically a Backup?

Cloud storage is not automatically a backup. While data is stored on an external server, that alone doesn’t guarantee secure backups. Accidental deletions or malware require more than just storage space.

Cloud storage syncs changes and allows easy sharing, but it may also replicate deleted or damaged files – making recovery difficult. A dedicated cloud backup stores files at set intervals (daily, weekly, monthly) and keeps previous versions for long-term recovery.

Checklist: What to Look for When Choosing a Cloud Provider

  • Check data center location: Servers should be in Germany or the EU to ensure GDPR compliance.

  • Understand encryption: Reputable providers offer end-to-end encryption. Users should control the encryption keys – not the provider.

  • Look for certifications: Standards like ISO/IEC 27001 or C5 attest that infrastructure and processes are regularly audited.

  • Demand versioning and backup features: Providers should store previous versions (PDF link) and allow file recovery. Additional backup options should be available.

  • Compare terms: Some services offer cheap starting prices but raise fees with storage or user count. Others make switching providers costly (lock-in effect).

  • Transparency & support: How openly does the provider communicate about security? Is there support available in case of emergency?

Conclusion: Choosing Cloud Storage with Foresight

Cloud storage simplifies daily work, relieves IT, and supports flexible working. But not every offer suits every need. If you handle sensitive data or need long-term scalability, look closely: Where is your data stored? Who can access it? What features support your workflow?

For companies especially, it pays to choose solutions that combine data protection, transparency, and flexibility. If you focus on end-to-end encryption, European data centers, and modular pricing, you’re making a future-proof decision.

As digitization increases, so will demand for cloud storage – along with expectations for security, sustainability, and digital sovereignty. Choosing wisely today ensures your independence tomorrow. A provider like luckycloud can be a reliable partner – with clear focus on privacy, technical independence, and needs-based solutions.

Want to host your data securely, flexibly, and easily – with a strong focus on privacy? Try luckycloud free for 14 days for yourself (and your team).

Image: Freepik / kjpargeter

You might also be interested in