For all the advantages that online data storage brings there are disadvantages as well. Since data is transported through the internet there is the possibility of unauthorized access to sensitive or private information.  Hence securing the data is of paramount importance. The online data storage model will not be feasible if the data being stored or transported cannot be secured.

Having an idea of the different kinds of security measures available can give you a better picture of how secure you own data is; more so since it is being entrusted to a third party.

Data is protected in two states. When it is not moving and stored in the server and when it is moved or transported from the server to another location.

Thus a multi-layer protection system must be used.  The most fundamental is password protection. Only those who are authorized are allowed access to the account or the data. Some online storage providers have sub-accounts which ideally should have password protection as well.

There is also folder protection in the form of folder permission. This is the scenario when there is sharing of files involved. Who is allowed to share and at what level must be established; allowing editing and even deleting of files or simply viewing.

When the data is in a stored state there is the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES).  This is the encryption of electronic data. The data is encrypted as it enters the server and decrypted when it leaves the server.  The U.S. government uses this as its standard method of encryption.

When the data is in motion (or in transit from a server to a computer) the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption method is used for safe transportation of data online. Another type of encryption used is the Transport Layer Security (TLS).  Its application not only covers online data storage services but also well-known websites, and is used in the financial industry as well.  The TLS is the successor to the SSL. Both are safe and secure although the TLS is more preferred from a security standpoint.