In certain example embodiments, heterogeneous cloud-store provider access systems (HCPAS), and/or associated methods, are provided. Certain example embodiments provide users with managed access to cloud stores distributed across multiple, disparate providers, in a device-independent manner. A common API and user-friendly user interface allow for a single sign-on access to the various providers. Advantageously, users need not download and install differing cloud store provider access software for each provider, device, and/or provider-device combination, used to access the cloud drives. Instead, by using the HCPAS, a user can manage the distributed storage and provide improved common access, e.g., in terms of administrative and operational functions.