Cloud storage

What is cloud storage

Cloud storage is an online data storage model in which a user's files are stored on remote provider servers and are available via the internet from any device. Cloud storage provides file synchronization between devices, automatic backup and shared access. In Russia, Yandex Disk, Mail.ru Cloud, SberDisk, VK Cloud are popular, as well as international services Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, Dropbox, iCloud. For state and corporate systems, cloud storages integrate with document flow systems and electronic archives.

How cloud storage works

A user uploads files to provider servers via a web interface, desktop or mobile application. Files are stored with redundancy — usually several copies are created in different geographic locations. When a file changes on one device, synchronization automatically updates it on all others. The user can provide access to files — public links or restricted access. Most cloud storages provide encryption of data in transit (TLS/SSL) and at rest (AES-256).

Types of cloud storage

Cloud storages are classified by type of use (personal, corporate, hybrid), by deployment model (public, private, hybrid), by type of data (universal, specialized), by payment model (free, paid, subscription) and by access protocol (object S3-compatible, file NFS/SMB, block SAN/iSCSI).

Advantages of cloud storage

Availability — files are available from any device anywhere in the world. Automatic synchronization — changes on one device are instantly reflected on others. Backup — files are protected from loss. Collaboration — several users can work with the same files simultaneously. Scalability — storage volume can be easily increased. Economy — reduced costs for server equipment.

Security and compliance

When choosing cloud storage for business, it is important to consider security requirements and compliance with legislation. To work with personal data of Russian citizens, servers with data must be located in Russia (242-FZ, 152-FZ). For state systems and CII facilities, certified solutions from the Unified Register of Russian Software supporting CIPF are required.

Cloud storage security

When choosing cloud storage, consider storage volume, access speed, functionality, security, cost and support. For state customers, inclusion in the Register of Russian Software and FSTEC certificates are mandatory.