A cloud backup is also known as an online backup. It sends a copy of data (documents, photos, etc.) to an offsite vendor, sometimes called a cloud provider. This third-party network or proprietary keeps the information secure and available in real-time. Typically, there is a fee based on bandwidth, capacity and the number of users accessing the cloud.
Most individuals and businesses choose a cloud backup instead of a storing it locally because they do not want to risk valuable information being compromised or lost. Another reason people decide to use a cloud backup is to archive essential information that they do not need to have access to a daily basis.