Dropbox

Dropbox is a cloud storage and collaboration service that provides file storage, synchronization, and sharing across devices. It was founded in 2007 by Drew Houston and Arash Ferdowsi in San Francisco and grew into a widely used platform for individuals and organizations. Dropbox went public in 2018 and is listed on the NASDAQ under the ticker DBX.

Its core features include automatic file synchronization across devices, secure file sharing with link controls, and a web-based interface in addition to desktop and mobile apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Users can access version history, recover deleted files, and employ selective sync to manage local storage. Dropbox also offers collaboration tools such as Dropbox Paper and integrations with third‑party apps including Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace.

Security and privacy protections include encryption in transit with TLS and encryption at rest using AES-256. The service supports two-factor authentication, single sign-on for businesses, and device management for administrators. Data governance and access controls are provided in paid plans.

Dropbox operates on a freemium model. A basic free plan provides limited storage, with paid tiers offering increased space and advanced features, including options for individuals and for teams and organizations. The company has expanded its collaboration and document workflow capabilities through acquisitions to bolster e-signature and secure document sharing capabilities.

Dropbox competes with other cloud storage and collaboration platforms, such as Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, and Box, and is used across consumer and enterprise segments for personal file storage, team collaboration, and enterprise workflows.