Since the cloud first started to make
inroads into the business world, there have been concerns. It's quite obvious
that business and industry can profit from the unlimited storage, less expensive
software options, and nearly unlimited access to company files from computers,
tablets, smartphones, and future devices. In spite of the benefits of cloud
technology, there are issues of security, minimal flexibility, and limited
control of your network. Businesses have to make their cloud computing
decisions based on the features that are most important for their company's
success. If the advantages of the cloud infrastructure are greater than its
disadvantages, your business will benefit from this great technology. Use the
following information to help you determine whether or not the cloud will be
good for your business.
Benefits
Of Cloud Computing
There are many advantages associated with
using the cloud for business. From saving money to increasing access, the cloud
can improve the performance of everyday work tasks and data protection.
External
Storage - In the event of a
disaster, it's critical to have backups of all your business documents. A fire,
tornado, or earthquake can destroy a business overnight. Vandalism and theft
can also interrupt business. If all your documents, sales data, contracts,
employee files, and banking information are stored on computers located in your
office, you can find your business in serious trouble when a disaster occurs.
Cloud storage provides backup and storage of your important business documents,
and they are where they can be easily accessed from any location by your
electronic devices.
Cost
Effective - Expenditures related
to cloud computing are minimal compared to other options. Software prices and
computer licensing fees have always been a financial drain, especially on small
businesses. Cloud servers store most of the software businesses use, and the
cost is based on need. When a company had to buy a license for 15 computers but
only 11 were using it, money was wasted. When you subscribe to software in the
cloud, you pay only for what you need and the cost is considerably less. In the
cloud, software is automatically updated for you.
Concerns
With Cloud Computing
In spite of the many benefits the cloud
offers business, there are still many who have concerns about uploading
sensitive business data.
Security - The major concern of most businesses
that presently reject the cloud is security. When you make the decision to go
cloud, choose a company with the highest level of security that allows you to
feel at ease. A high-end cloud company will provide encryption during the
transfer of your data and while it is stored. Encryption is not a guarantee
your data will remain secure. Professional hackers can break encryption, and
this is the reason strong passwords are so important. You must limit the access
to a select few employees in order to reduce the risk of your data being
compromised.
Limited
Control - An external server,
possibly thousands of miles from your business, is where your critical data is
being stored. You and the select employees have very little control of this
server. The company guarantees your service will be up and available 24 hours a
day, but if the server is hacked, damaged, or goes down during maintenance,
there is nothing your or your staff can do to fix it. You are totally dependent
on the cloud company to quickly get your data back online and accessible.
There are other pros and cons relating to
the services provide by cloud computing firms, but these are among the most
common. Before you decide to move to the cloud, thoroughly research the
companies you are considering. It will help avoid unpleasant problems later.
Robert Blake
Bit by Bit Computer Consultants
721 N Fielder Rd. #B
Arlington, Texas 76012
Direct 817.505.1257
Bit by Bit Computer Consultants
721 N Fielder Rd. #B
Arlington, Texas 76012
Direct 817.505.1257
877.860.5831 x190
