The main reason why you save your files in the cloud is to make them accessible anywhere and anytime. Cloud storage keeps your data safe and secure without ever requiring you to carry around a data storage device. However, there are still confusion on how this cloud thing works. There are so many intricacies that go around cloud computing service which make it seem more complicated than it is. It is actually not that complicated.
To put cloud storage into simple terms – you’re basically storing your files online, protected by your account credentials. Since the data is saved online, you can view or access them to any of your connected device so long as you have the proper credentials. Now that’s out of the way, let’s go read some problems you may encounter using cloud storage.
What if I accidentally deleted a file on the cloud storage – can I get it back?
The answer is dependent on many factors but for the most part, the answer is yes. However, there are times where you may not be able to get your files due to some instances that you can’t control. Below we are going to address the solutions to retrieving your deleted file on the cloud.
Restore from the trash folder on your cloud storage
Seems easy enough. This is the same as your recycle bin or trash from your computer. You basically select which files you want back on your cloud storage.
Dropbox – To access the trash folder, clock the small ‘Show Deleted Files’ icon at the top of the your file list.
Google Drive – Go to your account then select the ‘Trash’ option from the ‘More’ menu.
SkyDrive – Just like a windows desktop, click the recycle bin and select the file you want restored.
**Take note that these popular cloud storage sites will clean up their trash folder after a given time to free up your cloud storage.
View old versions of your files
If you accidentally saved over a file because of similar naming, you can still get the old version back. Most cloud storage services save previous versions of the files. Just click that option and you will get the version you want.
Just like the trash folder, file history clears up after about 30 days so make sure you get your wanted file before the time limit.
Access your local storage
Many cloud storage also save the files on your local storage. If your cloud storage provider don’t have this feature, you should store the files locally yourself. It is always a good idea to have a backup of your files, no matter how secure you think they are.
Access the file from another synced computer or smartphone
If your devices connect to the cloud regularly, you will have a copy of the files in their on your local storage. If you happen to delete a file on one synced computer, you can easily find it on your other devices provided they are connected to the cloud.