What is Dropbox?

So what exactly is Dropbox? Dropbox is a file synchronization/backup service.  How would one use Dropbox? A basic example would be to install it onto two computers and have the contents of folders synchronize between each computer. This is nice and easy. You can just throw in the items you need to work on and it’s there. No need to remember your flash drive or a burned copy of the CD/DVD.

So now you have your files shared between computers and you accidently delete your file. “Well that’s okay it’s on my other computer!” Sorry but it gets deleted from both computers on the account. But don’t worry, if you log onto the Dropbox website it allows you to undelete files. “My coworkers thought it would be funny to save over my presentation with pictures of cats with mustaches.” No problem, Dropbox keeps revisions of your files so can revert back to an older copy. Again just go back to the website and click on the arrow next to the file to choose which revision.

If that was all there was to Dropbox, then it would be an amazing service, but there is more. Pictures, you have lots of pictures right? The kids, the pets, parties, whatever, well Dropbox can store these in folders in the "Photos" folder, right click any folder in the Dropbox Photo folder and choose "View Gallery" and you'll see your pictures, click on one and it starts a slideshow. Cool huh, but pictures are for sharing right? On the gallery page there is a URL (web address) that you can email or post on your website so other people can see the gallery and slideshow too.

Not only can you install and share between your computers but you can also share folders between Dropbox users. Right click on any folder you wish to share and choose the share option. You will then be prompted to invite another user to share the folder with. Now each of you can add files into the folder such as pictures of cats with mustaches so your coworkers don’t have to overwrite your presentation to show you these “hilarious” pictures. BUT remember that when users add files into the folder it takes away from the total space quota of each user.

WOW, what a cool service, but wait, there is still one more thing. Want to share a file with anyone? Don't want to bother with them having a Dropbox account? Well then drop the file in your "Public Folder", then right click and choose "Copy Public URL". E-mail this link, or post it on your web page for people to use, no fuss to it.

So that’s Dropbox in a… Box?

Northern Computer - Your Trusted Partner
#1 - 495 Banks Road Kelowna, BC V1X 6A2
Phone: 250.762.7753 Fax: 250.861.1861 Toll-Free: 1.877.257.2896
Email: sales@northerncomputer.ca or service@northerncomputer.ca
Web: http://www.northerncomputer.ca