OwnCloud provides one of the easiest to set up private cloud storage systems on the market.

Online storage of important documents has become a norm for individuals and companies all around the world. In most cases, the documents are stored in websites such as Dropbox or even Google Drive, who offer file-sharing services. These two sites have been in use for a number of years but the trend seems to be changing with a number of online users preferring to use their private cloud for storage. To define private cloud seems to be the challenge for most beginners but with some bit of research it turns out to be worth the effort.

Although the use of a cloud server for personal use has not completely been embraced by every internet users, majority are making the change due to a number of reasons. First, the space provided by websites that allow file sharing is limited resulting in users seeking extra space to create and store their data, which is usually offered at a cost. The costs involved is usually quite high especially for uses that store as well as share lots of data on a regularly basis. Also, the use of handheld devices such as tablets which have limited storage space even with memory cards makes the need to build private cloud much more urgent. 

Simple steps on how to create a cloud server with OwnCloud

OwnCloud, an open source private cloud software is one of the most popular platforms available for those that want to create a cloud server. The software that is available at no charge and can be set up within a short time even for those that have little technical knowledge.  Below are the main steps involved in setting up a OwnCloud server:

Prepare in advance some of the important tools needed to make the set up quick and effective. These tools include a URL link, new or existing, that allows you to access OwnCloud remotely.  Also you will need a webhost that can comfortably work with MySQL as well as PHP5 which are necessary for OwnCloud to work well. Finally, upload a file known as Own server 5 to your site to assist in the building the server.

Using a web installer made available by OwnCloud and downloaded into your computer,   upload a file known as setup-owncloud.php to the web space provided for by your host. After the file has been uploaded, enter URL address attached to the set-up file into web browser and follow instructions to complete the installation process. If successful, you will be redirected to a login page.

Set up mobile sync and desktop so that files in the cloud server are similar to those in these electrical devices. For a PC, you will need to install a desktop client which can be either Linux, Windows or Mac. After setting up the preferred desktop client, there is need to configure it by adding your personal OwnCloud server URL as well as login credentials, then selecting files that need to be synced. On the other hand, for mobile sync, the app needs to be pointed to the OwnCloud directory, and then the password and username typed in for syncing to begin. After the initial sync set up, other features that can be linked to the cloud serves include music, contacts and calendar.

To be able to experience the control OwnCloud gives you when learning how to create a cloud server, it is advisable to add more apps. The functionality of the sever is enhanced with these apps and they are quite a number to choose from and use. Some of the well known apps provided by OwnCloud are Round Cube, Journal, Bookmarks and Tasks among others. To select the best apps for your daily use, browse through the applications list made available by OwnCloud.

In general, the decision to create cloud server for personal use is a step in the right direction for those that want to get to experience a new way of online storage. OwnCloud makes the transition from traditional sites that allow file sharing to what is considered to be the future by many online experts. Furthermore, the safety of your data is greatly increased when storage is done on a reliable cloud server.