If you want to access your files from any location, then cloud storage provides a solution to your needs. Cloud storage refers to data that is placed on a virtual server, usually hosted by a third party service provider (such as Google), thus enabling access to the information from any location that has a computer (or another digital device such as a tablet) and an internet connection. Using cloud storage can reduce worrying about lost USB drives (a  common issue with students). Many cloud storage services also has content creation capabilities–allowing users to create files anywhere. Users can also collaborate with and share these files with others–very useful for class and work projects. The following list provides a brief description of several popular cloud storage services.

Box.net
Box.net offers 5 gigabytes (GB) of storage space for free and offers an option to send files via email and collaborate virtually. Box.net is also available for mobile devices.

DropBox
Free users are provided with 2 GB of space. While this is is fairly low (especially compared to Box.net and Google Drive, both which  offers 5 GB of space), Dropbox is useful in that you can download the software onto each of your computers or mobile devices and it will automatically sync to Dropbox’s servers. Users can decide which files should be publicly accessible, which files should be shared with only a few people, and which files should remain private.

Google Drive
Similar to Box.net, Google Drive has 5 GB of storage space. However, if you have a Gmail account, then Google Drive (and a host of other Google Products) is already available to you. There’s also an option to download Google Drive onto your computer, smartphone, or tablet.

SkyDrive
SkyDrive is an online storage site that is part of the Microsoft family  of products. Sky Drive provides users with 7 GB of space and allows users to sync their files from any location. If you already have a Microsoft account, then SkyDrive is already available to you; if not, then you will need to create a Microsoft account prior to using it.