File hosting
File hosting is an online hosting service specifically created to host contents other than web pages. These contents are usually document files, images, videos, etc.
Also known as online file storage service, file hosting works more like a remote backup service or online backup service. It enables clients to employ certain online programs to back up and store files. The companies offering such services are called managed backup providers. The majority of providers allow files stored on a per-gigabyte basis. Some file hosting services are free but come with adverts.
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Uses of file hosting
File hosting is commonly used by those who need a quick way to upload and share files. It allows them to save costs that would have been accrued with heavy bandwidth usage.
Many software developers use file hosting services to offer their applications as downloads. Advanced file hosting services provide mirror technologies whereby the same file is duplicated on multiple services found in different locations.
Benefits of file hosting
Convenience
Instead of storing files on a personal computer, it makes commercial sense to simply use a web-based interface that supports browser uploading. From there, the files can be re-downloaded on personal computers and other devices.
Safety and security
Clients feel a sense of security when their files are stored at a file storage facility, which is much safer than storing files on personal hard drives. Again, most hosting providers offer improved backup hosting, called remote backup,which means using part or entire portions of the hard drive.
FTP and WebDAV access
This benefit, more than others, is responsible for driving file hosting competition on the path of alarming growth. The reason is simple: FTP allows more flexibility compared to uploading and manipulating files through web interfaces. WebDAV (Web-based Distributed Authoring and Versioning), on the other hand, is a platform-independent extension of HTTP that allows users to collaboratively manage files on web servers.
See also
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