How to use cloud storage on your computer

💡 Need to know

• Cloud storage isn’t just for backups—It also makes it easier to sync files across laptops, phones, and tablets automatically.
• Auto-sync can save a lot of headaches—Cloud services continuously update files in the background so you’re less likely to lose important changes.
• Not everything should live only in the cloud—For especially important files, it’s smart to keep both local and cloud copies.

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Looking for ways to easily transfer data between your many devices, like your phone, tablet, and computer? This is a question we answer often as we help our nearly 300 million customers get the most out of their devices, appliances, and tech. Our suggestion? Cloud storage.

Cloud storage is an online service that lets you store files—like your photos and documents—and access them from anywhere on any of your connected devices. It provides plenty of free space to back up your files so you don't have to rely on your device's hard drive—especially important in case something were to happen, like breakdowns or accidental damage. 

Here are some of the best cloud services, along with tips for setting each one up.

1. Google Drive

Free storage amount: 15GB 

Google Drive™ comes with a full suite of online collaboration tools: word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and forms. With its 15GB of free storage, which is more than most cloud services offer, and its ability to easily locate your photos and files thanks to it being backed by Google's powerful search, it's a solid cloud storage option that fits many users needs. 

Using Google Drive via a Browser:

1. Open any web browser, go to drive.google.com, and sign in. If you don't have one, click Create account.
2. To add a file, click the + New button in the top-left corner and select File upload (or Folder upload).
3. Select the items you'd like to store, then click Open.

Pro tip: Download the Google Drive for Desktop app to turn your cloud storage into a virtual hard drive on your computer for automatic background syncing.

2. Microsoft OneDrive

Free storage amount: 5GB 

Microsoft OneDrive® offers 5GB of free space and offers up to 6TB of space for an additional fee, if you find yourself needing more storage. OneDrive offers folder and file syncing, as well as the ability to collaborate in real-time with Microsoft Office® apps. While it's convenient for business use, you can also use it to easily share photos and media with family and friends. 

How to use OneDrive:

1. Sign in to your profile on the Microsoft OneDrive website, or click the cloud icon in your Windows taskbar.
2. To create new documents directly in the cloud, click + New and choose a folder or Office web app format.
3. To upload files manually online, click Upload > Files, select your items, and click Open.Any file dragged directly into the "OneDrive" folder in your Windows File Explorer will sync automatically.

3. iCloud

Free storage amount: 5GB 

iCloud® allows you to store files and sync them between your iOS® devices as well as your PC, but take note: there's currently no iCloud option for your Android™ devices. A bonus feature is the Family Sharing option, which allows family members to share access to multiple Apple® services like Apple TV®+, as well as music and App Store® purchases and a family photo album. 

Using iCloud on a Mac:

1. Click the Apple Menu icon in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings.
2. Click your Apple Account name at the top of the left sidebar.
3. Click iCloud on the right side.
4. Select iCloud Drive and ensure the toggle for Sync this Mac is switched on. Your cloud storage will now appear as a dedicated folder in your Finder sidebar.

Using iCloud on a Windows PC:

1. Download iCloud for Windows from the Microsoft Store, install it, and restart your PC.
2. Open the iCloud app and sign in using your Apple Account credentials.
3. Check the box next to iCloud Drive (as well as Photos or Passwords if desired) and click Apply.

4. Dropbox

Free storage amount: 2GB 

Dropbox® offers 2GB of free space, with the ability to increase to 3TB for an additional fee. It's a simple solution if you're just looking to store files and sync them between your devices. It also comes with a web-based word processor. Like the other cloud service options here, Dropbox offers a desktop app that automatically syncs files between your computer and the cloud for easy backup.  

How to use Dropbox 

1. Open a web browser, go to dropbox.com, and sign in or create a free account.
2. Click Upload on the dashboard and select Files or Folder to move items over the web.
3. For large file transfers or continuous background computer backups, download the Dropbox desktop app to manage your files directly through your local operating system interface.

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FAQ

Is cloud storage the same as a backup?

Not always. Many cloud services sync files automatically, but true backups usually create separate recovery copies in case files are deleted or corrupted.

How much cloud storage do I need?

It depends on what you store. Documents need very little space, while photos, videos, and large creative projects use much more.

Can I access cloud files without internet?

Usually yes—if you mark files for offline access before losing your internet connection.

Which cloud storage service is best?

Google Drive™, OneDrive®, iCloud®, and Dropbox™ are all solid options. The best choice usually depends on which devices and ecosystem you already use.

What happens if my computer crashes?

If your files were properly synced to the cloud, you can usually recover them by signing into your cloud storage account on another device.