What is the practice of storing data on the Internet through a service provider instead of on physical storage devices?

The practice of storing data on the Internet through a service provider, rather than on physical storage devices, is best described by cloud storage solutions. This term encompasses a variety of storage services that offer users the ability to store, manage, and access data remotely over the internet. Such services facilitate easy scalability, accessibility from various devices, and streamlined collaboration, making them a popular choice for individuals and businesses alike.

Cloud storage solutions typically include a blend of both infrastructure and software services provided by cloud service providers, ensuring that data is securely stored and managed in a data center. This model contrasts with other concepts like cloud backup, which specifically focuses on creating copies of data for disaster recovery, and remote data backup, which similarly emphasizes backing up data but often implies less direct access for day-to-day operations.

By utilizing cloud storage solutions, users can benefit from features such as automated backups, increased data redundancy, and simplified data sharing, which are central to the functionality and appeal of cloud-based systems.