Definition

cloud file sharing

Cloud file sharing, also called cloud-based file sharing or online file sharing, is a system in which a user is allotted storage space on a server and reads and writes are carried out over the Internet. 

Cloud file sharing provides end users with the ability to access files with any Internet-capable device from any location. Usually, the user has the ability to grant access privileges to other users as they see fit. Although cloud file sharing services are easy to use, the user must rely upon the service provider ability to provide high availability (HA) and backup and recovery in a timely manner.  

In the enterprise, cloud file sharing can present security risks and compliance concerns if company data is stored on third-party providers without the IT department's knowledge. Popular third-party providers for cloud file sharing include Box, Dropbox, Egnyte and Syncplicity.

This was last updated in June 2014

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