Post date: Oct 3, 2012 10:04:23 PM
Dropbox is the glue that holds my digital world together. Instead of using a USB flash drive, you can install Dropbox on all your computers and devices. Whenever you save a file in your Dropbox folder, it will automatically sync to wherever you have Dropbox installed. Below are some resources to guide through your Dropbox journey. As always, let me know if you need any help.
What is Dropbox?
https://www.dropbox.com/ - Watch the video for a description of how Dropbox can simplify your digital life
Dropbox vs. Google Docs
Information you place in your Dropbox folder will show up on any computer/device where Dropbox is installed. As a result,
Dropbox should be installed on computers you use or own, not shared computers. Google Docs can be used to create and save files online. Since nothing is being automatically saved to the computer, this would be a good option for shared computers.
Always use caution when working on a shared public computer or when using a public (Wi-Fi) internet connection (eg. internet cafe, public library). There are ways to track your computer activity and account log-in information.
The Basics
How to install Dropbox to your computer - http://www.guidingtech.com/3656/dropbox-file-backup-sync/
How to upload/sync files & folders - https://www.dropbox.com/help/90/en
When is Dropbox syncing? - https://www.dropbox.com/help/146/en
Share a link to a file or folder - https://www.dropbox.com/help/167/en
Sharing
How to share a folder - https://www.dropbox.com/help/19/en
- Great way to share resources with other teachers
How to unshare a folder - https://www.dropbox.com/help/156/en
Sharing files, folders, and pictures - https://www.dropbox.com/help/274/en
Extra
How to get more space - http://www.howtogeek.com/77903/supercharge-your-dropbox-account-with-space-upgrades-apps-and-more/
Do more with Dropbox - http://edtech.keuka.edu/dropbox-web-apps/
Add more security - https://blog.dropbox.com/index.php/another-layer-of-security-for-your-dropbox-account/ and http://lifehacker.com/5794486/how-to-add-a-second-layer-of-encryption-to-dropbox
A Note on Security
I trust and use Dropbox everyday. It allows me to sync files across all my devices and easily share resources with co-workers, family, and friends. However, Dropbox is not immune to security issues and has had some in the past. The company has taken steps to improve any problems (linked above). With any software or service that saves your information online, you want to use caution. As a general rule, don't use these services to save extremely private or sensitive files.