Microsoft One Drive
One Drive Folders appear in Windows File Manager. These One Drive folders are automatically in sync with One Drive in the Cloud in your Microsoft account. There are settings to disable sync explained below.
What is the CLOUD?
In computer technology, "the cloud" refers to servers (computers), data storage, databases, and software accessed over the internet instead of on a local computer or office network. It enables on-demand access to computing resources managed by providers;
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Data Storage in the Cloud:
Microsoft Cloud is called ONE DRIVE with 5GB of Free Storage
Google Cloud is called DRIVE with 15GB of Free Storage
There are many other Cloud Storage Services both paid and free such as Dropbox.
Microsoft One Drive
One Drive Folders appear in Windows File Manager. These One Drive folders are automatically in sync with One Drive in the Cloud in your Microsoft account. There are settings to disable sync explained below.
Google Drive
If you have a GMAIL address you have a Google Account and access to Google Drive plus many other Google Applications.
Other Cloud Storage:
Cloud Applications -
There are several Applications/Programs you can access in the Cloud with out installing anything on your computer. You just access these services through your browser.
Microsoft Office 365 is one example. You have access to Word, Excel and Powerpoint for Free through your Microsoft account.
Another is Google Drive. A complete office suite of programs accessed through your Google (Gmail) Account.