The cloud is a modern digital storage solution that, rather than keeping your files on your hard drive or physical computer, stores your data on servers hosted by third-party providers. If you’ve written a report on Google Docs, shared files through Dropbox, or saved your photos on iCloud, you’ve used the cloud.

There are plenty of reasons why the cloud has become a popular storage solution for so many people. For one, when you save things on the cloud, you keep your physical devices from being bogged down by large, slow files. Also, you can access your files on the cloud using any device. In addition to making your work more accessible than ever, this also means that if something happens to your computer or hard drive, you don’t lose all of your hard work and important files.

Of course, the cloud might sound too good to be true. How secure is all of your data, living on some strange server, somewhere? Are those servers a secure place to store your files? How are they protected from hackers, server failure, or other potential security threats?

As Norton explains, “information stored in the cloud is likely to be more secure than . . . files, images, and videos stored on your own devices,” and that’s because “cloud companies often rely on far more robust cybersecurity measures to protect your sensitive data.” For one, servers are housed in secure warehouses that are not open to the general public. The files stored on servers are also encrypted, meaning that if hackers did manage to break in, your information would appear scrambled and nonsensical.

While the Cloud companies are doing their part to protect your data, there are still measures you can take to keep your files as safe as possible.

• Stay on top of your updates.

Sure, the notifications can be pesky, but keeping your computer and devices up to date is one of the simplest and best ways to make sure your files stay protected. These updates often include updates to the cloud and software that helps protect your devices from spyware and malware.

• Manage your passwords.

With constant data leaks and hacker activity, changing your password often is more important than ever. However, we all know memorizing many passwords of sufficient strength and changing them often can be challenging. That’s where password managers can help. MalwareBytes Labs defines password managers as “a software application designed to store and manage online credentials.” These managers can also generate passwords on your behalf. You don’t have to memorize them because they are stored in an encrypted database and locked behind a master password of your choosing. Using a password manager makes protecting your information easier and more efficient, all at the same time.

• Back it up.

Backing up your data is always a smart move, no matter where your information is stored. You can back up your data with cloud backup applications, such as PROCareCloud service offered by Computer PROS. In addition, it’s important to have your data backed up in a secondary location, such as an external hard drive. If something happens to your files stored on the cloud, having your data backed up in a secondary location can save you time, money, and headache.

• Two-factor authentication is better than one.

The combination of increased computer sophistication and tried and true human error have made passwords a less effective security tool over the years. That’s why many businesses, especially those dealing with private health, financial, and tech information, have begun to implement two-factor authentication, also called 2FA. 2FA is exactly what it sounds like— it requires two levels of verification before granting access. As stated by Authy, “First, a user will enter their username and a password. Then, instead of immediately gaining access, they will be required to provide another piece of information.” This could be something you know (like a PIN), something you have (like a hardware token), or something you are (like a thumbprint). 2FA offers exponentially more protection for minimal additional effort on your part.

At Computer PROS, it’d be our pleasure to help you find easy, practical ways to increase your security while enjoying the convenience of the cloud. Our flagship product, PROCareCloud offers peace of mind with unlimited remote and in-store support, help desk, enterprise-grade antivirus, and automated fixes, plus data-encryption and cloud-based backs to keep your computer secure and running like new. Our friendly experts are available to talk to you either on the phone or at our in-store location whether you know exactly what you’re looking for or would like help choosing the best gear and models to help you thrive as you outfit your home.

Give us a call at 615.383.8200 or stop by our store in the Green Hills neighborhood of Nashville. We look forward to hearing from you.