Introduction
It's no secret that cloud storage is the way of the future. From the ability to access your files from anywhere to automatic backup, there are plenty of reasons why you might want to use cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox. But what about security?
There are many similarities between these two services, but also some key differences. We'll start off by comparing the two services' basic features and costs before getting into their biggest difference: their security features. After that, we'll answer some common questions about this topic—like whether or not it's possible for someone else to hack into your account or see what you're storing on it. By the end of this article, you should have a better understanding of how secure each service really is so that you can decide which will work best for your needs!
Google Drive vs. Dropbox: A brief history
Both Dropbox and Google Drive are free online storage services. But that's where the similarities end. We did a deep dive on Google Drive recently, check it out Google Drive Backup and Sync: Everything You Need to Know.
Dropbox started out as a file syncing service for Mac users who wanted to share files between multiple computers. It later added support for Windows, Linux and iOS devices as well.
Google Drive is an all-in-one cloud storage solution that also comes with a word processor (docs), spreadsheet app (sheets) and presentation software (slides). You can also use these apps if you don't have an account — they're all built into Google Docs.
What are the security differences between Google Drive and Dropbox?
The answer to this question is a bit complicated. On the one hand, Google Drive has more security features than Dropbox, so it's safer than Dropbox in that sense. However, if you use the same password across multiple accounts (like most people), then it doesn't matter whether or not your files are stored in Google Drive or on someone else's computer—your information will still be vulnerable to hackers if they get hold of your account credentials (aka: your login information).
So what are some ways to keep yourself safe?
So, which cloud storage is safer?
As we covered above, the two cloud storage services have different security features and restrictions. Dropbox doesn't offer multifactor authentication but Google Drive does. However, Dropbox has its own unique set of features that makes it more than just a file-sharing service: you can share entire folders with other users, send messages to individuals or groups of people (and receive notifications when they respond), and even create custom emoji reactions for your files. While these may be small details in the grand scheme of things, they're still helpful for getting work done quickly without having to leave the app or website you're using at hand.
Dropbox is also cheaper than Google Drive at $10 per month for their 1TB plan—or $100 per year if paid monthly—while Google Drive starts off at an annual fee of $120 per year ($11/month). This means that over time Dropbox will cost less than Google Drive since you'll pay less each year on average when using their services instead of paying upfront for 2TB worth of space like on G Suite's unlimited plan (which costs $30/month).
Conclusion
Both Google Drive and Dropbox are very secure. They both use encryption and each has its own strengths and weaknesses. If you’re concerned about privacy, you should probably go with Google Drive because it doesn’t share user data with third parties. However, if you want a little more control over your files (and less reliance on others), then Dropbox might be a better option for you.
FAQs
Dropbox encryption uses 256-bit AES keys to protect files at rest, and encrypts data in motion with 128-bit AES SSL/TLS encryption or better. Google Drive encryption is similar; files in motion are protected using 256-bit SSL/TLS encryption, while those at rest are encrypted with 128-bit AES keys.
Is Dropbox or Google Drive more secure? ›
Dropbox vs Google Drive: Security
Both Dropbox and Google Drive offer strong security measures. However, there are some advantages to Dropbox's security. Dropbox uses 256-bit AES encryption for data in transit (when you're creating, uploading or downloading files) and at rest (stored data).
Is Google Drive 100% Secure? ›
The truth is, nothing is 100% secure when you store it online. However, Google Drive is generally very secure because Google encrypts your data while it's being stored or transferred. Although you can store sensitive files in Google Drive with low risk, there are better digital storage options that offer more security.
What is more secure than Google Drive? ›
Sync.com — The most secure Google Drive alternative. pCloud — Lots of free storage and excellent media playback. Icedrive — Zero-knowledge security and a tight privacy policy. MEGA — Secure cloud storage service with a generous free plan.
Why use Google Drive over Dropbox? ›
Google Drive is an excellent choice for users who seek more free storage and affordable pricing plans, making it the more budget-friendly option. On the other hand, Dropbox is a better choice for businesses and users who require advanced security and file sharing options.
Why do people use Dropbox instead of Google Drive? ›
Dropbox empowers lightning-fast media collaboration, and Google can't keep up. Dropbox is tailored to the needs of large-content creators—offering more TB of storage—so you can quickly sync file uploads as big as 2 TB (even massive CAD files and 4K video) and keep on working.
Is Google Drive safe from hackers? ›
Google also implements strict access controls and regularly audits its systems to detect and prevent unauthorized access by hackers or malicious users. This makes Google Drive a safe and secure choice for many users and use cases.
Can hackers access Google Drive? ›
Can My Google Drive Be Hacked? Technically yes, your Google Drive account could be hacked, as nothing connected to the internet is completely protected from data thieves and cybercriminals. However, Google Drive's security protocols make it a very secure cloud storage provider.
Is Google Drive safe from data loss? ›
Google Drive is only safe for confidential information if you deploy the right security tools to discover, classify and protect your sensitive data, such as cloud data loss prevention.
What should you not store in Google Drive? ›
Harmful content: Content that is designed to harm or exploit others is not allowed on Google Drive. This includes malware, viruses, and phishing scams. Personal information: Google Drive does not allow the storage or sharing of personal information unless the person whose informatio.
Clear your browser cache and cookies and then try to load your Drive files again. You can put large files in Drive, but if you exceed the size limits, they might not load properly. If your file is too big or close to the limit, divide the information into more than one file.
Which is safer iCloud or Google Drive? ›
iCloud encrypts all its files. They protect users' precious information with AES encryption. TLS 1.2 is used to encrypt data on iCloud sessions, including the data accessed and all traffic moving in and out of the app. Google Drive also encrypts its files using SSL and 128-bit AES.
Which Drive is most secure? ›
These are the six most secure cloud storage solutions:
- IDrive: Best overall secure cloud storage solution.
- pCloud: Best for extended storage functionalities.
- OneDrive: Best for Microsoft systems integration.
- Internxt: Best option for secure file sharing features.
- Sync.com: Best for ease of use and administration.
None of the services are particularly secure, but OneDrive offers a secure folder locked by an extra level of two-factor authentication. In the end, the results are a true toss-up between Google Drive, OneDrive and Dropbox, with each service scoring three points in different categories.
Is Dropbox 100% Secure? ›
Dropbox protects your data using AES-256 bit encryption while at rest on its servers. At a high level, the Advanced Encryption Standard protocol protects your account from many common cyber security threats, such as brute-force attacks. Our article on AES encryption explains how the process works in more detail.
What is the most secure cloud storage? ›
Top Secure Cloud Storage Solutions Comparison
| Zero-Knowledge Encryption | Backup & Recovery |
|---|
| pCloud | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| OneDrive | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Internxt | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Sync.com | ✔️ | ✔️ |
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Dropbox files at rest are encrypted using 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). In fact, Dropbox is designed with multiple layers of protection to keep your files secure, above and beyond this encryption.
