(BPT) - At first, some cloud storage platforms let users upload unlimited content for free. But now, some of the biggest cloud storage companies are tacking on monthly fees that can increase when you use more data. Others are cutting back on their cloud services as a whole, limiting free storage to lightweight items only, such as contacts, calendars and notes.
You might have benefited from unlimited data storage. But as cloud storage companies make changes, you may face a tough decision: Do you stick with your current provider and pay monthly storage charges? Or do you look for something that better fits your needs?
Finding another solution
Looking for alternatives to cloud storage can feel scary, especially if your whole photo and content library exists on its servers. However, making a change doesn't have to be life-altering. There are options available where users can preserve their digital content without monthly storage fees, like a personal cloud storage device.
Here are a few of the benefits a cloud storage device can provide:
No monthly storage fees
With some corporate cloud storage platforms, you may pay additional storage fees to store content beyond a certain capacity threshold. With My Cloud™ Home from WD, the device's price is based on the amount of storage you want, eliminating monthly storage fees. You can choose devices that store anywhere between 2 to 8 TB1 of data.
The My Cloud Home device from WD is an easy-to-use alternative to traditional cloud storage services. By plugging the My Cloud Home device into your home Wi-Fi® router, you can have more capacity and freedom when managing your digital information.
Easy file organization
A personal cloud storage device can help clean up messy desktops by separating and categorizing files, making it easier to find your content. Many cloud storage devices come with simple search tools, allowing you to access your personal and professional files with minimal hassle. In-home cloud storage also allows you to download your photos, videos, social media accounts and other information directly onto your storage device.
'The last thing you want is to be scrambling to find your vacation photos or tax documents right when you need them,' says Susan Park, vice president, Consumer Solutions, Western Digital. 'You probably have a lot already across your computer, smartphone and other devices, so having your digital content in one searchable, specific place is important.'
Simplifies sharing and collaborating on content
As people spend more time at home these days, file sharing is crucial for sending loved ones content, like photos, personal documents and home videos. It's also vital for collaborating with your colleagues on different work projects. When you store this information on a personal cloud storage device, you can grant file access to those who need it by sending them a private link. You can even add users to their own private space so they can store their own items.
By plugging the My Cloud Home device directly into your Wi-Fi router, you can keep your content files in one central place.
Compatible with multiple devices
Whether you use Mac or PC, you can store your content files in their original quality with the My Cloud Home device from WD. The My Cloud Home device also works well with iOS™ and Android™ devices, allowing you to sync and back up content from both mobile and desktop devices.2 You can find a list of operating systems compatible with My Cloud Home from WD here.
Take control of your cloud storage
The only thing constant in life is change, so if your cloud storage provider no longer meets your needs, it may be time to switch. Learn more about what the My Cloud Home personal cloud storage capabilities can do for you.
1 1GB = 1 billion bytes. 1TB = 1 trillion bytes. Actual user capacity may be less depending on operating environment.
2 Compatibility may vary depending on user's hardware configuration, software version and operating system.