7 Cheap Cloud Storage Options

6Comments | Michael Endler | November 15, 2012 11:06 AM

You have a multitude of cloud storage choices beyond Dropbox, for enterprise and personal use. But make sure you understand the differences.

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ShareFile: Think Large File Transfers

ShareFile, which is owned by Citrix, doesn't appear cost-competitive at first glance: Its basic plan provides only 5 GB of storage for a monthly fee of $29.95, and even its corporate plan, which runs $99.95 per month, offers only 20 GB. The enterprise-level product, which is priced on an individual basis, appears similarly stingy with a mere 100 GB capacity.

ShareFile, though, isn't aiming to be a catch-all repository for files of all kinds; the service instead targets users who need to move particularly large files quickly and who value security and personalized customer service.

ShareFile can store file up to 10 GB, imposes no expiration dates on file hosting, and offers syncing designed to handle multiple employees simultaneously working in the same cloud-based storage folder. It also includes numerous administrator controls, including granular user-permissions tools, settings for optional file expiration dates, and the ability to audit and remotely wipe lost or stolen mobile devices. Like most cloud storage services, ShareFile facilities mobile access for iOS and Android devices -- but unlike many of its competitors, it supports Windows and BlackBerry smartphones as well.

The service also offers a plug-in that allows users to upload, send, and request files directly through Outlook. The plug-in can embed links to stored files into emails, and it permits email attachments to be routed through ShareFile rather than the internal email server.

On the security front, ShareFile encrypts data not only when it's in transit but also, unlike some of its competitors, while it's at rest. Its data center is locked down, with biometric authentication required for access to all entrances and exits, and the company employs redundant off-site monitoring to reduce the risk of data loss. Customer service offerings, meanwhile, include a dedicated account manager to help with system set up and support.

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