Cloud Computing – Are you Taking Advantage?

Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services – servers, storage, software, network devices – over the internet. In the past, software was downloaded from a disk or website directly on to a computer or server that was physically located in a building. With the evolution of the cloud, those downloads are often no longer necessary as people can access tools, applications, and data through the internet.

5 Perks of Cloud Computing

Change isn’t always easy, but moving to a cloud-based system is a change that comes with several benefits.

1. Reduced costs – Network costs are drastically reduced when you no longer have to purchase or maintain server hardware.  You don’t need excessive data center space, and you save on the utilities associated with running and storing hardware.
2. Data security – Data breaches and other cybercrimes can force a small or midsize business to close their doors as the result of revenue loss, damage to reputation, and the cost of potential lawsuits. Data in the cloud is securely stored. Cloud storage providers offer basic protections such as access control and encryption. We often recommend additional tools such as multi-factor authentication.
3. Scalability and competitive advantage – A small start-up won’t have the same IT requirements as a large enterprise. Using the cloud enables an organization to quickly and efficiently scale their IT based on business demands.  Cloud-based solutions are ideal for businesses with growing or fluctuating needs. If your needs increase, you can easily increase your cloud capacity without having to invest in physical infrastructure. This level of agility can be an advantage over your competition.
4. Mobility – Cloud computing allows mobile access to company data, which ensures everyone can be connected when they need to be, no matter where they are physically located. Remote staff can easily use the cloud to keep up-to-date with clients and coworkers.  Resources in the cloud are stored, retrieved, recovered, or processed with just a couple of clicks. Users can access their work on-the-go, 24/7, via any device as long as it is connected to the internet.
5. Disaster recovery – Losing data during a disaster is a major concern. Storing your data in the cloud means that it is always available, even if your computers or network devices are damaged in an emergency – from a natural disaster to a power outage.

Cloud computing options are becoming increasingly attractive to businesses. Organizations recognize there are many benefits to using the cloud from security and disaster recovery to a direct impact on revenue and the bottom line.

If you are interested in moving to the cloud, we can help!