# Purpose of Cloud Storage

**URL:** <https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/purpose-of-cloud-storage/47598>\
**Category:** Elements\
**Created:** [May 16, 2025, 5:14pm UTC](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/purpose-of-cloud-storage/47598 "2025-05-16T17:14:11Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![agilefalcon](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/user_avatar/forums.realmacsoftware.com/agilefalcon/32/21108_2.png) [@agilefalcon](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/u/agilefalcon)\
**Post date:** [May 16, 2025, 5:14pm UTC](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/purpose-of-cloud-storage/47598/1 "2025-05-16T17:14:11Z")

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What is the purpose of cloud storage that is part of the cost of an [Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) license? If I am using Host Gator or some other provider, would I even need this cloud storage?  
Is using this cloud storage mandatory?  
If its use is not mandatory, can it be disconnected?

Thanks for any info.

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**Author:** ![dan](https://dub1.discourse-cdn.com/flex005/user_avatar/forums.realmacsoftware.com/dan/32/28516_2.png) [@dan](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/u/dan)\
**Post date:** [May 16, 2025, 6:51pm UTC](https://forums.realmacsoftware.com/t/purpose-of-cloud-storage/47598/2 "2025-05-16T18:51:07Z")

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Hi @agilefalcon,

[Elements](https://elementsapp.io/) Cloud is for project back-up and sharing projects. It’s not a place to host your website; you still need a hosting provider for that.

It comes with your license, but you don’t need to use it. It’s completely optional, but I think you’ll find it handy to make backups while working on your site.

You can [learn more about Elements Cloud here](https://docs.realmacsoftware.com/elements-docs/elements-cloud/account-sign-up#backup-and-share-a-file).

Hope that helps!