The Creative Cloud is a collection of all the design applications Adobe provides, like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Even though it has the word “cloud” in its name, it operates differently from the standard clouds we use to store files online.
Adobe Creative Cloud vs. “The Cloud”
In the digital world, “the cloud” typically refers to a storage service you can only access via the internet. Some of the most popular cloud service providers include iCloud, Google Drive, and Dropbox.
Unlike the clouds we commonly use to store and share files, you don’t need to stay connected to the internet to use the Adobe Creative Cloud.
So Why Is It Called A Cloud?
Do you remember when you had to install new software on your computer with a CD? With the Creative Cloud, Adobe can store all of the software’s download information on the internet. So, it is similar to other servers in that it uses the internet to store data.
Store Your Project Files in the Creative Cloud
Additionally, Adobe is now incorporating more file storage features into the Creative Cloud. These new features allow you to store project files online like you can with other cloud-based servers.
The Adobe Experience Cloud
The sister application to the Creative Cloud is the Adobe Experience Cloud. This application houses Adobe’s collection of integrated online marketing and web analytics products. They can help you track the customer journey, marketing workflows, and audience data.
How Many Creative Cloud Applications Do You Need?
Every Adobe design application is in the Creative Cloud, including Photoshop, Premiere Pro, Audition, and XD. But purchasing access to the entire Creative Cloud suite is expensive.
If you only need access to a couple of apps, it’s cheaper to purchase them individually. However, it is cheaper to buy the entire Creative Cloud suite if you need three applications or more.
How to Know Which Adobe Application to Use?
Knowing how and when to use each application can be a barrier for many people. We can answer your questions and teach you which Adobe application is best for each design project. Learn more about our online design and digital marketing courses here.
Affinity: A More Affordable Adobe Creative Cloud Alternative
If you only need Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator, Affinity is a much cheaper alternative. While it is very comparable to Adobe products, it does not contain all the same features.
Adobe Remains the Industry Standard for Design Software
Still, Affinity has most of the vital design functions you need at a fraction of the cost. However, despite software alternatives on the market, Adobe remains the industry standard. Most companies will expect you to have some experience with Adobe products.