If you’ve been looking for a low-cost and easy to use cloud storage platform, then you have probably considered Dropbox. It’s one of the most popular options you have today with easy to understand functions.
But what exactly is Dropbox? You’ll know more about it and how to use it in this unbiased Dropbox review.
What is Dropbox?
Dropbox is a pioneer in cloud storage service that allows you to copy all your files to the cloud and access them later on the same device or on another one. Although somewhat pricey, it has many unique features like Paper and Showcase that make it a standout from its competitors.
The Pros and Cons of Dropbox
Like other cloud storage services, Dropbox has its own pros and cons. However, it seems that the pros outweigh the cons. Check out our list below:
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PROS:
- Seamless file synchronization
- Supports various operating systems
- Tight operating system integration
- Reliable servers
- Allows file-sharing
- Shows action history
- Grants easy access to deleted files and their earlier versions
- More features for Pro users
- Easy to install
CONS:
- Expensive
How to Use Dropbox
So, how do you get started using Dropbox? First, you have to sign up for a Dropbox account.
Sign Up for a Dropbox Account
You have to decide first which plan fits you. If you are interested in the free plan, visit www.dropbox.com and click on the upper-left corner of the screen that says Get Dropbox Basic. After that, follow the steps below:
- Provide your name, email address, and password. You may also sign up for a Dropbox account using your Google account.
- Click the Create an Account button.
- You will then be taken to a screen that provides you with an option to download Dropbox. Click on it.
- Once it is downloaded, double-click on it to open it. Dropbox should install automatically. The process may take a few minutes, so you may have to wait.
Now that you have a Dropbox account, what’s next?
Set Up Dropbox
Once Dropbox is downloaded on your device, the first thing that you will notice is a Dropbox icon added to your system tray. It’s the fastest and easiest way to access Dropbox from your PC. To open it, simply double-click on it.
And then, you will notice two tabs in the upper-left corner of the screen and four buttons in the upper right. The first tab is the notifications tab that shows you all your notifications, as well as other important messages from Dropbox.
The second tab is the recent files tab. It displays the last 30 files that have been uploaded to Dropbox. You can open them by simply clicking on them. You can also choose to get the link instead. Just click on the Copy Link button next to the file.
Using Dropbox on a Desktop
Using Dropbox on your desktop is easy. As long as the Dropbox client is downloaded on your PC, all the files and folders will be automatically copied to your Dropbox account. You can find the Dropbox folder under This PC.
Now, if you want to move or transfer old files to Dropbox, simply highlight them and drag them over to the Dropbox folder. You may also choose to copy-paste them if you find that easier.
The Bottom Line
Dropbox can definitely be a lifesaver if your PC dies because it has a lot of handy features that are more than just for backing up and sharing. So, whether you choose to use the free plan or upgrade to the paid tiers, it depends on you, really.
Before you proceed with installing Dropbox, make sure your PC is clear of any malware entities. Run a quick malware scan using an anti-malware tool and get rid of junk files that are consuming a huge chunk of your system space using a PC repair tool.
What do you think about Dropbox? Share your thoughts below!