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Dropbox Online Data Storage, Backup, Sharing, Synchronization

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Dropbox online data storage is a powerful, budget-friendly solution for individuals and businesses who need secure off site data storage combined with easy accessibility to the data from multiple locations. Using a Cloud-based system where data is stored in a remote online repository yet securely accessible via the Internet, Dropbox users can backup, store and access their data from different computers, devices and locations with minimal limitations on secure data access.

The Dropbox service also allows a user to share specific files by creating individual, secure folders and providing access to specific friends, family, coworkers or business contacts without the need to send large e-mails attachments or use transfer tools for large files. Users are also able to synchronize data between multiple computers and devices.

The Dropbox online data storage service launched in 2008 and has grown dramatically. Dropbox currently boasts over 25 million customers and users are currently uploading over 200 million files daily. In the rapidly changing world of cloud computing Dropbox has carved out a secure and expanding niche.

How Dropbox Works

The Dropbox service is used by uploading files to the Dropbox data repository in the Cloud by either using the Dropbox client (a piece of software you will need to download and install on your computer) or by going to the Dropbox website, logging in and using the upload link available. You can install the Dropbox client on multiple computers and devices and take advantage of the ability to synchronize specific files and folders automatically between different computers and devices.

The synchronization feature of the Dropbox service provides the capability to keep specific files and folders consistent across multiple systems, such as between your desktop and laptop computer or between your laptop computer and your tablet computer or even between your iPhone or Android phone and your desktop computer. Installing and configuring the synchronization process of multiple computers or devices will allow files to appear on each computer/device without needing to download them immediately.

Dropbox provides 2GB of storage space at no charge. When you need more storage space than this, you will pay a rate of $10 per month for 50GB of online storage (Pro 50 plan), or $19.95 per month for 100GB of storage (Pro100). Larger blocks of storage are also available for business users and this option also includes advanced management features (Teams plan). All are reasonable rate in today’s storage market.

Dropbox Features

Dropbox online data storage provides a range of useful features for storing, synchronizing and sharing data. One of the main benefits of this service is peace of mind with you knowing that your important files are stored in a secure location, no matter what may happen to your computer. The main features of the Dropbox service include:

  1.  Data Backup – the Dropbox client software provides for the backup of specific files and folders via a secure connection to a secure off site data repository.
  2.  Data Synchronization – Dropbox allows for the synchronization of data between multiple computers using the Dropbox client software.
  3.  File Sharing – This service allows you to have family, friends, coworkers or clients selectively view and download specific folders or individual files in your Dropbox repository that you give them access to. You can create individual password protected folders and include the files you want to share.
  4.  Compatibility – it works with all leading operating systems: Windows, Mac, and Linux. Users can also access their data and folders via iPhone, iPad, Blackberry, or Android mobile devices.
  5.  Ease of Use – Dropbox is a powerful yet easy to use service. You can start with a small number of files or folders and expand your use of the service as your needs and requirements change.
  6. Lightweight – When a file is modified Dropbox only transfers the portions of the file that have been changed which can significantly lessen the amount of data being transferred as well as the time required.
  7. Configurable – Users can set bandwidth limits for data transfers so that their Internet connection won’t be adversely slowed by large amounts of data transfers.
  8. Deleted File Recovery – The Dropbox database stores a full month of file history. This means that if you accidentally delete a file on your computer you can retrieve it from the Cloud.
  9.  Version Protection – As part of the historical storage process any changes made to documents stored on Dropbox can be undone if necessary.
  10.  Secure Data Transfers – All data transmissions to and from Dropbox use secure sockets layer (SSL), protecting your data from malicious eavesdropping and tampering.
  11.  File History – Dropbox provides the capability of registering the history of a file – if more than one person edits a file that is stored with Dropbox the service keeps both the old version of the file and the new one.
  12.  User Community – There is a Dropbox Online Data Storage community – people who, on top of using the service, are dedicated to improving it by creating add-ons that can be used to increase the number of functions the service can perform.

In the big picture the Dropbox service offers peace of mind. You can effortlessly recover valuable files stored on Dropbox if your computer becomes lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed. When you connect to the Internet, all files added or changed since your last login will automatically be transferred (downloaded) to your computer. After that takes place you have full access to these files both on your computer and online.

How People Use Dropbox Online Data Storage

Personal Dropbox Use

Basic uses for Dropbox include convenient file sharing between family members. Share your Dropbox folder with Mom and Dad. Upload videos and photos to show what’s going on in your life.

College students can type an essay on their home computer and easily access that paper on a campus computer. This occurs automatically and helps save time and hassles. Students can save all of their class work and research in one convenient location. There is no need to email the data or carry a USB drive. If they need the information on the spur of the moment, they can access it from any computer.

If you have an iTunes library or MP3s stored on Dropbox you can listen to them on your iPhone or other mobile device without any upload hassle.

Professional Dropbox Use

Professionals and small business owners can use Dropbox online data storage to work from home. All of their research and information seamlessly appears on their home computers via the synchronization process. They can easily share it with other team members. Reliable data backup also gives peace of mind.

Creative minds use Dropbox online data storage to innovate new ways of organizing otherwise complex and often chaotic information.

For example, Dropbox was employed extensively during the Japan earthquake and tsunami disaster. Disaster relief committees coordinated efforts through shared folders. One industrious user aggregated information about transportation issues. This was widely shared with commuters who had little other ways of finding out about those notifications. Another user compiled news reports. This was helpful to many Japanese citizens who still had Internet but no television.

Potential Drawbacks of Dropbox

Despite so many practical uses, Dropbox is not without faults. Its database security has been called into question at times. They experienced a brief period earlier this year when a faulty upgrade set the system to not require passwords to log on. The upgrade was quickly taken offline (and the old version restored) until that problem was solved.

One feature that has not been implemented yet is “read-only permission.” Currently, when users share folders, that information can be altered by anyone able to view the folders. This can be a concern when sharing with many people. Fortunately, changed files can be restored. As mentioned previously, Dropbox keeps a one month history of document changes. It allows you revert to any previous document version.

Future of Dropbox Online Data Storage Service

The company continually upgrades its software. The latest version, released earlier this year, implemented speed and performance improvements when working with large folders and files. Considerable memory optimization code was also added.

In the future, Dropbox says that commercially available devices (sold at Best Buy and other electronic stores) will automatically handle data synchronization with the service. Company programmers are building an API to allow software developers to interface their own applications with Dropbox. This is guaranteed to substantially increase the future functionality of Dropbox. Stay tuned, the world of online data services continues to evolve rapidly.

If you have used Dropbox or another similar service leave a comment below and share your thoughts and experiences. Thanks.

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Android OS for Android Phones and Tablets

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In the world of technology innovation the Android OS has emerged as a growing engine of change. Already powering a rapidly growing array of smartphones and tablet computers, the Android operating system has risen to a prominent role in the technology and gadget marketplace in just a few short years.  A solid indication of the Android OS role is that savvy consumers now consider Android as a factor in making a buying decision along with price and other features. In fact Android powered phones are growing more rapidly than any other platform including Apple’s iOS.

What is the Android OS?

Android is a mobile operating system that was initially developed by Android Inc.  According to the Android.com web site: ““Android is an open-source software stack for mobile phones and other devices.” The key here being that the Android operating system is open-source and therefore available to all licensed developers at a relatively small cost. Android is based upon a modified version of the Linux operating system kernel. It is also enhanced, extended and maintained by a wide range of people and organization along with Google.

Again from the Android web site, “Android was originated by a group of companies known as the Open Handset Alliance, led by Google. Today, many companies — both original members of the OHA and others — have invested heavily in Android, typically in the form of allocating significant engineering resources to improve Android and bring Android devices to Market.”

In the second and third quarters of 2010 the unit sales for Android OS smartphones ranked first among all smart phone OS handsets sold in the U.S. In the third quarter of 2010 Android smartphone market share had grown to 43%. In the last quarter of 2010, Google’s Android dethroned Nokia’s Symbian operating system as the global leader in smart phone software.  This change illustrates how quickly Google has jumped to the top of the smart phone market, leapfrogging Apple in its rapid ascension.

Google, unlike Apple or Nokia, does not make its own smart phone hardware. Google instead offers the Android operating system free to other phone and tablet computer manufacturers who adapt Android to best fit with their smart phones.

More in depth information is available from Canalys here: “Google’s Android becomes the world’s leading smart phone platform”

Android OS: A Bit of History

The original Android, Inc. was incorporated on 2003 in Palo Alto, California. Initially producing operating software for mobile phones, Android Inc. was acquired by Google in 2005. The Android development effort at Google incorporated key elements of the Linux operating system into the new mobile platform.

The new platform provided handset makers the flexibility of an upgradeable system. Through an Open Handset Alliance with various mobile companies, the first Android OS platform powered by Linux kernel, version 2.6, was unveiled. Companies that participated in the alliance includes Sony Ericsson, LG, Samsung Electronics, Asustek Computer Inc., Toshiba Corp., Motorola and Texas Instruments.

Since the Android operating system was released, there have been a number of updates with most of them focused on updating OS features and minimizing bugs. Android OS’s most recent versions include version 2.0/2.1 (Éclair), 2.2 (Froyo), 2.3 (Gingerbread) and Version 3.0 (Honeycomb). A combination of versions 2.3 and 3.0 will be released by mid-2011.

Android OS: Changing the Landscape of Smart Phones and Tablets

The Android operating system software has seen explosive growth with an increasing number of consumers switching to gadgets powered by Android. To date, Android OS is activated by 350,000 users per day. Along with providing users with more options for their budget, Android phones and Android tablet PCs provides a high level of flexibility in choosing handsets and wireless carriers.

A key feature among Android phones and Android tablets is the ability to run multiple applications at the same time while keeping all the information visible on your home screen.

Following the release of HTC Dream on October 2008, more and more mobile phones and tablet PCs have rushed into the gadget marketplace. Among the top Android phones released this year are: HTC Desire, Google Nexus One, HTC Evo Shift 4G,LG Optimus, Motorola Droid X, Motorola ATRIX 4G, Samsung Galaxy S4G and the Sony Xperia Play. In the Android tablet market a wide range of devices from Samsung, Motorola, Acer, HP, Dell, Toshiba and many others, potentially including Google itself, are currently available or will be available during 2011.

Add a growing number of applications for the Android operating system to the growing number of hardware devices and a continually evolving operating system platform  and one sees a great deal of momentum continuing to build. So, while the Android OS has had a great deal of success so far, it is quite possible that the greatest growth is yet to come. If you are interested in more information tablet PCs be sure to read the post  Tablet PC Primer for more insights.

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Windows 7 Service Pack 1 Available – SP1

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Microsoft recently began shipping Windows 7 Service Pack 1. Initially available through direct download, Microsoft is now including Windows 7 SP1 as part of the regular Windows Update service that automatically downloads and installs priority updates for Microsoft products. Windows 7 SP1 is available for all editions of Windows 7 including Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate.

Inside Windows 7 Service Pack 1

Released to the general public on February 22, 2011, Windows 7 SP1 is a rollup of security patches, minor bug fixes along with a few tweaks that improve existing features. In reality SP1 does not contain a huge number of changes for computers that have been downloading and installing the monthly updates that Microsoft sends out regularly. Windows 7 Service Pack 1 is a healthy dose of security fixes and minor updates rolled into a single installation package.

A notable fix in Windows 7 Service Pack 1 is the HDMI audio problem that some people have experienced. There have been a lot of reports about the loss of HDMI audio devices after rebooting a computer. Problems with printing when using the XPS Viewer have also been fixed.

Another fix included in SP1 is the way that Windows 7 restores folders after logging on. Prior to SP1, previous folders would be restored in a cascaded position based on the location of the most recently active folder.

That behavior changes in SP1 so that all folders are restored to their previous positions.  For example, it is now possible to change the “Restore previous folders at logon” function that is governed by the Folder Options Explorer dialog.

How to Install Windows 7 SP1

There are two options for installing SP1: Download the pack directly from Microsoft or wait for Microsoft to download the service pack directly to your computer as part of the standard Windows Update process. For direct download the Service Pack comes in a file over 500MB in size. When installing through the Microsoft Update process the size of the Service Pack will vary depending on the Windows 7 updates that have previously been installed.

Using the Windows Update service is the recommended method for installing SP1. If you would like to download the service pack directly from Microsoft’s website you can follow this link:  http://windows.microsoft.com/installwindows7sp1

Installation times may vary from 30 – 60 minutes on average depending on your computer’s performance. This was confirmed through several installations I have done. Aside from the time required installations have been smooth and error-free.

There was one exception where the Service Pack did not complete the installation process and Windows Update returned an error message. By rebooting and retrying the process everything completed without any problems.

SP1 is not actually essential item for installation. However, it is worth having for the fixes that it does supply. With SP1 installed you’ll know you have all previous Windows 7 security fixes and other updates installed. Plus, at some point you may need SP1 installed to receive additional future updates.

Considerations Prior to Installation of Windows 7 Service Pack 1

  1. As with the installation of any major operating system or software component it is encouraged to close all applications prior to installation. Rebooting the computer and turning off any antivirus programs prior to installing the SP may also be beneficial. You will be prompted to restart your computer after the service pack installation is complete.
  2. Install all other available updates before installing SP1 including the KB2454826 Update. This Update will automatically be installed when you install the service pack by using Windows Update. However, Windows Update KB2454826 is not automatically installed when you install the service pack from the Microsoft Download Center.
  3. Scan your computer for malware by using antivirus/antimalware software that is up to date.
  4. If you are using a portable computer, make sure that you connect your power adapter to an electrical outlet prior to installation of the Service Pack. Do not unplug or restart the computer during the installation.
  5. Make sure that you save your work and close all open programs before you begin the installation process.

This first Windows 7 Service Pack was released approximately 16 months following the official release of Windows 7 in October 2009. This is 5 months longer than it took Microsoft to release the first service pack for Windows XP back in September 2002.

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HP Tablets – HP TouchPad | HP Slate

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The evolution of HP Tablet computers continues with the recently announced HP TouchPad, closely following the fourth quarter 2010 introduction of the HP Slate tablet. In a change of direction from many of its tablet competitors the computer giant is utilizing different operating systems for their tablet PCs. The HP Slate runs the Windows Pro OS and the HP TouchPad runs Hewlett Packard’s own WebOS software. With smaller and more compact devices and gadgets changing the way people conduct business, communicate and digest media, HP seems focused on listening to the needs of the marketplace.

Apple’s phenomenal success in launching the iPad tablet in 2010 has caused a frenzy among computer and smartphone manufacturers and developers. In one way or another each of them is looking to take a bite out of the growing tablet computer PC pie. HP appears to be delivering a multi-pronged approach.

HP TouchPad Tablet

HP has announced that the TouchPad tablet will begin shipping in June 2011. According to initial forecasts, HP is slated to sell 4-5 million units of the TouchPad this year. While Apple dominated the sale of tablet PCs during the last quarter of 2010 with 7.5 million iPads sold, HP does not seem to be positioning the TouchPad tablet as a potential Apple iPad killer. Instead, HP claims that it will focus on satisfying its wide range of enterprise customers, who have different needs from consumers and may require more custom products.

Although the interface and sleek designs are similar to its Apple and Motorola counterparts, the biggest differentiator for the HP TouchPad tablet is its operating system. The HP TouchPad runs on HP’s own WebOS, while many competing tablet pcs run the Android OS and the iPad runs Apple’s iOS. HP originally acquired the WebOS with its purchase of Palm who had developed the WebOS for use on its line of smartphones. The HP TouchPad is the first non-smartphone device to use WebOS. For better or worse this will definitely set it apart from the numerous Android OS powered tablets PCs.

HP TouchPad offers plenty of storage as it will ship in both 16GB and 32GB versions. The TouchPad also offers a compact wireless keyboard for people who don’t want to do a lot of typing on the touchscreen.  Other accessories include a flip-case that doubles as a stand (as does the Apple iPad case) and a Touchstone dock. The HP TouchPad tablet interface enables perform multiple tasks; when a user is finished using an application, he can immediately flick it off the screen rather than shutting the application down. Here are some of the specs on HP TouchPad tablet computer:

  • Operating System: Runs HP WebOS operating system.
  • Processor: Uses a speedy 1.2GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon CPU.
  • Weight: Approximately 1.6 pounds.
  • Display: Sleek black 9.7 inch XGA capacitive, multitouch screen with 18-bit color and 1024×768 resolution.
  • Dimensions: Width:  9.45 inches, Height: 7.48 inches, Thickness: 0.54 inches
  • Storage: Either 16GB or 32GB internal storage
  • Connectors: Charger/microUSB connector with USB 2.0 Hi-Speed
  • Wireless connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n; 3G version to follow.
  • Bluetooth® wireless technology 2.1 with stereo Bluetooth support
  • Sensors: Light sensor, accelerometer, compass (magnetometer), and gyroscope
  • Supports video calls similar to Apple’s FaceTime feature.
  • Adobe Flash is supported, unlike on the Apple iPad.

The HP TouchPad was launched alongside two other flagship HP products, the Veer and the Pre3 smartphones. Indications are that HP aims to promote integration among its devices, where actions performed on the HP TouchPad tablet PC will be applied on the phones all with the touch of the fingertips.

The TouchPad tablet shows a lot of promise, especially with the growing business market. HP likely believes that the sleek black 9.7 inch touch display gadget weighing in 1.6 pounds will attract business-savvy consumers potentially because of the WebOS. The company is moving to deliver tight integration among its phones, printers and eventually, through its line of PCs. This could provide potential benefits in the business world.

The Businessman’s Tablet: The HP Slate 500

The fourth quarter of 2010 saw Hewlett Packard launch its first tablet PC, the HP Slate, a specialized tablet running the Windows 7 operating system. The HP Slate is powered by an Intel Atom Z540 1.86GHz processor, runs Windows 7 Professional (32-bit) and sports an 8.9-inch multi-touch WSVGA screen with active pen input (yes, it has a digitizer and Evernote software). The HP Slate 500 ships with 2GB of RAM and a 64GB SSD. Running on the Windows 7 OS, the HP Slate also supports multi-tasking.

Slate 500 Specifications:

The Slate tablet weighs 1.5 pounds and ships with the pen, a folio, and charging dock that includes two USB 2.0 ports, microphone/headphone jack, and an HDMI connector. The tablet supports 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It has both a VGA webcam on the front and a 3MP camera on the back for stills and video. HP claims its Slate 500’s 2-cell (30WHr) polymer battery is good for up to five hours of life, and the docking station will charge the tablet PC whenever the device is locked in.

One of the best features of the HP Slate 500 is the chemically strengthened glass which makes it very effective for use in the field. With its durability, the HP Slate tablet is being offered to enterprise customers through HP’s standard channels, specifically to those involved in the healthcare, retail, insurance, hospitality and education industries.

The battle for tablet computer market dominance will continue as long as new players continuously innovate and add to their features, improve their designs and create new applications that will entice even the non-tech savvy users. For now, the HP Tablet products hold some interesting potential, with their sleek design, OS and applications. Clearly HP is out to grab its share of the tablet market. Time will tell how well they do in this rapidly changing arena.

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Top 10 Computer Tips for 2010 from HTS Tech Tips

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Our top computer tips from 2010 covered a wide range of the technology spectrum. We must have hit on a good mixture of interesting and useful mix of computer tips, technology news and online computer support information as the number of visitors to our site went up dramatically in 2010. To help kick off 2011 we begin with sampling of some of our best posts from 2010.

Top Computer Tips from 2010

  1. New Laptop Computer Buying Tips
    Buying a new laptop computer can be challenging. Technology continues to evolve rapidly and nobody really wants to end up with a regrettable purchase. This post provides some insights on navigating the numerous choices and options available and helps make the process a bit less overwhelming.
  2. Roku HD-XR Player – Streaming HD Video to Your TV
    The world of streaming online video is moving at a rapid pace and Roku is one of the top companies driving technology. The Roku HD-XR Player is a slick product for getting Internet streaming video to your TV. For a very reasonable cost it can deliver HD-quality movies, TV shows, and a number of other Internet services including Netflix and Amazon Video on Demand directly to your HDTV via a broadband Internet connection.
  3. Large Computer Monitors – Why You Need One
    In the world of bigger, faster, stronger, cheaper large computer monitors are rapidly becoming the standard for desktop computers, and even for some laptop workstations. Gone are the days when 15” monitors or even 17” monitors were the norm. With the significant drop in prices on larger LCD flat panel monitors over the last few years computer monitors measuring 20”, 22”, 24” and even 27” have become more common and less expensive.
  4. Multiple Google Email Addresses – One Gmail Account
    Google’s Gmail is a very slick, free email product with many different features and facets. One Gmail feature that you may not be aware of is that multiple Google email addresses can be created from one Gmail account. These bonus email addresses are easy to create and manage and can take several different forms.
  5. Snagit Screen Capture Software – An Essential Tool
    Snagit screen capture software is one of my favorite tools. If you spend much time in front of a computer then having feature rich, easy-to-use screen capture software to grab pieces of what is on your computer screen and save it as a .jpg graphic file is a must. Published by TechSmith, Snagit provides a combination of features, functionality and power that make it an exceptionally useful tool.
  6. Powerline Computer Networking – Home Wifi Alternative
    Powerline computer networking is an easy to install yet flexible method of adding a wired computer network to your home. Powerline networking is a bit of an unknown with most people being more familiar with standard wired Ethernet networks and wifi wireless networks. A powerline network uses a home’s internal power lines to transfer data using adapters that plug into standard wall outlets. A standard Ethernet data cable connects the adapter to the computer. Simple and rather elegant.
  7. Laptop Computers – Netbook Computers – 8 Key Differences
    The key differences between netbook computers and laptop computers can appear rather blurry if you are not well versed on portable computer technology. Which factors are most important to you? Is it size, weight, operating system, CPU, performance, cost, battery life, or all of the above? Here is some help.
  8. Where Does Spam Come From?
    Spam impacts everyone in one way or another. Spam can seems like a mosquito in that it provides no value, can potentially be dangerous and never seems to go away completely. Have you ever found yourself wondering where spam actually comes from? Where in the world does spam originate prior to clogging up your email Inbox or your computer? Read and find out.
  9. Computer Data Backup – 8 Lesser Known Reasons to Backup Your Data
    Computer data backup isn’t one of the most exciting topics to talk about. Data backup may not be one of the most interesting things to discuss at a party. It’s a topic that sounds more like talking about car insurance to many people. But if you have ever experienced a crashed hard disk drive or experienced a lost or stolen laptop you may be painfully aware of the results of not having a full, recent backup of your important data. Here is why you should care about your backup.
  10. Tablet Computers – Tablets, Tablets Everywhere
    Tablet computers, driven by the launch of the Apple iPad, became one of the hottest technology topics of 2010. In many ways reminiscent of how the netbook computer (remember those?) burst onto the scene in 2007-2008 the tablet computer came out of nowhere in 2010. The accelerated growth of tablet computers is projected to continue well into the future. Here are some insights on tablet computers.

So we start 2011 by touching on some of the high points of 2010. If you missed any of these useful computer tech tip posts the first time around here is a chance to catch up. Enjoy. If you have any suggestion for computer tip topics in 2011 please leave a comment or connect with us via the Contact Us form.

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