Topic: Storing Information on the Cloud
When I am done this lesson, I will know:
• What the cloud is
• Some common cloud services and basic features
Pre and Post Self-Assessment
Pre Pre Post Post
Yes, I know No, I want to learn Yes, I know I still need more practice
this this this to learn this
I know what the
cloud is
I know some of
the most
common cloud
services
New Words and Terms
cloud services
encryption
What is the Cloud?
The cloud is a term used for online storage. Cloud services are online
storage systems. Cloud services let you store digital files online by
uploading using your computer or mobile device. Your files are then
accessible through the web wherever you are as long as you have
Internet access. The data or files are physically held or saved on big
servers. The servers are usually owned by whoever provides the service you use (Google, Microsoft
etc.). The servers can be anywhere in the world.
Page 164
To use a cloud service, you have to find a service and create an account if you don’t already have one.
Some services let you download and install an app or software. You can usually use the app or software
to back up your files to the cloud or adjust your settings so certain files or folders back up
automatically. You can also access your files through a web browser by logging into your account.
Most of the cloud services today will let you share your files by generating a link you can share. For
example, you may want to share a file with a work colleague or a folder of pictures with a family
member.
DISCUSSION QUESTION
1. Can you think different reasons you would want to share files?
2. Who would you share files with?
Cloud storage companies usually use encryption to keep your files safe. Encryption is a process where
the data in a file is scrambled so someone without the proper login cannot access it. However, there is
always a chance that your account can be accessed by someone who is not authorized when your
information is in the cloud. You should also be careful about uploading sensitive information to the
cloud. Creating a strong password is important when using cloud services.
Cloud storage services offer different amounts of storage. Most companies offer a certain amount for
free. Once you reach the limit, you have to pay for more storage.
Page 165
Popular Cloud Services with Free Account Options
GOOGLE DRIVE • Provides 15 GB of free storage
• Integrates with other Google services
• Allows you to sync from your device
• Has offline service that lets a user view files and photos saved online
when they are having network issues
https://accounts.google.com
Watch this video “Google Drive: One https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02DV21OtV3c
safe place for all your stuff” to learn
more about Google Drive
Source: Google Help last accessed
July 5, 2019
Watch this video “How to Use https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCZj5ojxRAA
Google Drive – Beginners Tutorial”
to learn how to use Google Drive
Source: Vrtical last accessed July 5,
2019
• Provides 2 GB of free storage space
• Integrates with Microsoft Office
• Allows you to sync from your device
https://www.dropbox.com/register
Page 166
• Provides 5 GB of free storage space
• Integrates with Microsoft Office
• Allows you to sync from your device
• Pre-installed in the Windows operating system
https://onedrive.live.com/about/en-ca/
Watch this video to learn how to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVnppwxnLgo
use OneDrive for Windows
Source: e-Top Technology Inc. last
accessed July 6, 2019
Watch this video to learn how https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tscROtfUz3U
to use OneDrive for MAC
operating systems
Source: e-Top Technology Inc.
last accessed July 6, 2019
CHECK YOUR KNOWLEDGE
Which Cloud service provider gives you the most free storage space?
Which Cloud service provider(s) allow you to sync from your device?
Page 167
TRY THIS/PRACTICE
Choose one of the cloud service providers and create an account.
Ontario Adult Literacy Curriculum Framework Connection
Competency Task Group(s)
Find and Use Information • Read Continuous Text (L2)
• Interpret Documents (L2- tables, charts)
• Extract Information from Films, Broadcasts and
Presentations (not levelled)
Communicate Ideas and • Interact with Others (L1 - share and exchange
Information information)
• Complete and Create Documents (L2 - pre and post
assessment)
Page 168
