Technology
How does cloud storage work?
Cloud storage keeps your files on powerful computers (servers) in remote data centers instead of only on your device. When you save a photo to the cloud, it uploads over the internet to those servers, which copy it across machines so you can reach it from any device, anytime.
See it in motion.
Watch a 2-minute animated lesson that shows exactly how Cloud storage works.
Step by step
- 1Your files live on servers in remote data centers.
- 2They upload and download over the internet.
- 3Copies are kept on multiple machines for safety.
- 4You can access them from any signed-in device.
Frequently asked questions
- How does cloud storage work?
- Your files upload over the internet to servers in data centers, which store redundant copies, so you can access them from any device by signing in.
- Is cloud storage safe?
- Reputable providers encrypt your files and keep multiple backups, but your own account security — a strong password and two-factor login — matters just as much.
- What happens to my files if I lose my device?
- They stay safe in the cloud; you just sign in on a new device to get them back.