Since we embarked on our global adventure in January 2012, we have amassed a mountain of photographs and generated thousands of essential files and documents. People frequently inquire about how we back up and retrieve this extensive amount of data. Until recently, our response was always Dropbox. However, HoneyTrek has now discovered a new favorite cloud storage option…IDrive! First, I will detail how cloud storage can revolutionize your workflow (if you’re not already using it), and then I will explain why we have selected a new champion: IDrive vs. Dropbox.
**What is cloud storage?**
– When files from your computers, phones, and other devices are consistently and automatically (without any user interaction necessary) backed up onto a secure server (an off-site backup solution is vital in the event of theft/fire/damage/etc).
**Why do I need cloud storage?**
– Have you ever misplaced a significant file, photograph, or document because of a computer malfunction?
– Have you ever found yourself traveling, wishing you had access to a specific file?
– Have you ever been at home, wanting to retrieve a file from your work computer and vice versa?
– Do you take numerous photographs and require a method to back them up and access them remotely?
– Do you own several computers and wish to maintain the latest version of every file (without the hassle of emailing files to and fro)?
– Do you sometimes want to send large files/images/videos to family, friends, or colleagues?
…I could continue listing reasons for utilizing online file storage, but hopefully those examples are sufficient to spark your intrigue.
**How does cloud storage work?**
1. [Establish an account on IDrive](https://www.idrive.com/p=honeytrek) (note: you can trial the service for 15 days and recover your $15 if you aren’t satisfied).
2. Download the IDrive software to your computer.
3. Launch the Application and select the “SYNC” tab on the left (refer to the screenshot below). Determine where to place your “My Sync Folder” (I prefer to save mine on my desktop for easy access and visibility). Subsequently, place all your files (Word documents, Excel sheets, Photos, Music, anything on your computer) within that folder.
4. Whenever you change or add a file within that folder, IDrive will back it up on their servers with 256-bit AES encryption (the same level of security as banking websites).
5. Take a deep breath and rest assured that your files will be continuously updated, securely backed up, and readily available whenever you need them. If your computer/hard drive ever fails, just install IDrive on your new computer, and your files will be automatically restored!
**Why are we big advocates of IDrive?**
– Backup unlimited PCs, Macs, iPhones, Android Phones, tablets, or nearly any device into a single account (you only require one account per couple/family).
– 256-bit AES encryption with a personal key that is not stored on the servers.
– IDrive Rewind can retrieve a previous version of your files.
– If you have a substantial amount of files, they will send you a 3TB hard drive to expedite your initial upload and conserve your bandwidth. For FREE!
**IDrive vs. Dropbox: The most significant and best difference? PRICE!**
– 1,000 GB account with Dropbox = $100/year
– 2,000 GB account with IDrive = [$52/year](https://www.idrive.com/p=honeytrek)
While we appreciate and utilize all the IDrive features, the crux of the matter is that either service essentially performs the same function…keeps your files synchronized across all your devices and securely backs them up in case of emergencies. The fundamental question is, would you prefer to pay $100 for 1,000 Gigs of space on Dropbox, or [$52 for 2,000 GBs of space on IDrive](https://www.idrive.com/p=honeytrek)?
**Transitioning to IDrive**
If you are curious (or slightly apprehensive) about the transition process from Dropbox to IDrive…we can assure you it was incredibly straightforward. You install IDrive on your desktop, and simply transfer every file currently in your Dropbox to the folder you designate in “My Sync Folder,” and allow it a day or so to finish the sync. We understand it can be daunting to shift all your files to a new service. We experienced the same feelings, so we maintained Dropbox while we tested IDrive during the two-week [full-refund period](https://www.idrive.com/terms-and-conditions).
**Resources**
*NOTE: IDrive inquired if we would like to share their service with the HoneyTrek audience, and we responded that we would only do it