How it works
Cloud storage keeps files on a provider’s systems and grants access through an account, app or shared link. Synchronisation adds another behaviour: changes on one device may be copied to the cloud and then to other connected devices.
A practical example
Deleting a folder on a synchronised laptop can also remove it from the online library. A recycle bin or version history may help, but its availability and retention depend on the service, account type and settings. A shared link can separately expose files without changing their contents.
What to check
Check which folders are synchronised, who can access shared items and whether a link is public or restricted. Open a test file through the provider’s website to distinguish upload success from a local-only copy. Test recovery before relying on it for important work.
Check whether a file is actually available offline before travelling or losing connectivity. A visible filename can be only a cloud placeholder, depending on the application’s storage settings.
Limits and safe use
Storage, synchronisation and independent backup are different roles. Keep a separate recoverable copy when losing the account or propagating a deletion would be unacceptable. Encryption, region, retention and account recovery vary by provider; cloud storage does not automatically guarantee confidentiality or indefinite recovery.