Dropbox
What is it?
Dropbox is cloud storage application which allows you to save files (up to 2 GB’s worth) on your computer to an individual web storage space that you can access from any computer via the internet. It stores a copy on you computer as well, so you don’t have to worry about trusting your files to a third-party. You can also store files in public folders that allow you to easily share files with others. And, if you use multiple computers Dropbox allows you to sync files between them. It is compatible across platforms (Mac, PC, and Linux).
Why should I use it?
Dropbox is extremely useful for students who might want to access papers or articles from a school computer or just don’t want to carry their laptops around. But, I think there is any even better reason to use it. Dropbox keeps a revision history that allows you to restore older versions of your files. If you accidentally save over a file you can go back and recover it. This has been a life saver for me on a number of occasions! Best of all, Dropbox is FREE up to 2GB which is plenty for all my school documents from the last five years. And, if you feel you need more space upgrading to larger accounts isn’t super expensive.
How do I install it?
Navigate here and enter the requested information to create an account. Click the “Free Download” button and follow the instructions from there.
How do I use it?
Once the installation is complete, move the files and folders you want to be able to access via the cloud to the Dropbox folder and you’re done! Your files will now automagically update to the web and be accessible from anywhere!
Go through the Dropbox tutorial here: https://www.dropbox.com/tour
For a more detailed demonstration, watch this:
Tips and Tricks
I use Dropbox to store all of my documents (I installed it under my main documents folder). I set the default save location for my word processor to save to the Dropbox folders. That way new files I create will automatically be accessible in my online account.
I’ve also used the public folder to share files that are too large to email.
I have Dropbox installed on both my home computer and my netbook. This allows me to work on both computers and always have access to the most up-to-date versions of my documents without fumbling with transferring from a flash drive from this computer to that one or forgetting that the most current version is on my home computer while I’m trying to work at school or in a coffee shop.
Happy Organizing!
