Life at Your Computer

Lesson 3: Managing Cloud Storage

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Managing Cloud Storage: OneDrive, iCloud, and Google Drive

  1. Saving Files to the Cloud:

    • Saving your files to a cloud storage service like OneDrive, iCloud, or Google Drive ensures they are backed up and accessible from any device.

    • OneDrive is built into Windows, and iCloud is integrated with macOS, making it easy to sync files across devices.

    • Tip: Set up automatic backups in your cloud storage service to ensure you never lose important files.

    • Visual Example: How to Use OneDrive on Windows.

  2. Accessing Cloud Files Across Devices:

    • Once synced, files saved to your OneDrive or iCloud account are accessible across your computer, phone, and tablet.

    • Tip: You can download the OneDrive or Google Drive app on your mobile device to access all your files on the go.

    • Visual Example: Setting Up iCloud on Mac and PC.

  3. Transferring Files Between Cloud Accounts:

    • If you use multiple cloud services (e.g., Google Drive and iCloud), you can transfer files between them by downloading the file from one service and uploading it to the other.

    • Tip: To avoid confusion, organize your cloud storage just like you would your desktop, with folders and clear file names.

  4. Sharing Files from the Cloud:

    • Most cloud storage platforms allow you to easily share files or folders with others by generating a link. For example, in OneDrive or Google Drive, right-click a file and select “Share” to generate a shareable link.

    • Tip: Always check the privacy settings before sharing a file to ensure that only the right people have access.

    • Visual Example: How to Share Files on Google Drive.

SIDE BOX: What to Do When Your Computer Freezes

Scenario: Your computer becomes unresponsive and is completely frozen.

Solution:

  1. PC: Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and select Task Manager. Find the unresponsive application and click End Task.

  2. Mac: Press Cmd + Option + Esc and select Force Quit for the frozen application.

  3. If your computer is still frozen, press and hold the power button for 10 seconds to force a shutdown.

  • This Tech Target article is useful for those who want a peek under the hood

  • You'll hear it lots of places. This short video gives the real deal. (Spoiler Alert - no one is looking at your data.) Description text goes here