While cloud computing is widely used among some of the most successful, growing businesses all over the world, it remains a subject that very few small business owners are entirely comfortable with. If you are still on the fence and wish you knew more about cloud computing than you currently do, this is the article for you; we’re going to answer some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding the subject. Let’s get started…
(Q) – What is cloud computing?
(A) – Cloud computing refers to the on-demand availability of computer system resources (e.g., data storage solutions) from third-party providers, without the need for on-site management – thus eliminating many of the costs and risks involved.
(Q) – What are the different types of ‘cloud’?
(A) – Cloud computing is divided into three main types: public cloud, private cloud, and hybrid. Public is most commonly associated with cloud computing services, with private clouds being favoured in corporate data centres and colocation facilities.
(Q) – Is the cloud secure?
(A) – The cloud itself is generally far more secure than most private data centres. The fact is, the largest and most reputable companies that offer cloud computing services, such as Google or Amazon, have highly gifted engineers who are forever striving to create the most innovative encryption methods, thus remaining ahead of the curve.
Security breaches are not unheard of, but you are more likely to have your data compromised when storing it yourself than you are using an established cloud service provider.
(Q) – What kind of workloads can be moved to the cloud?
(A) – If you are thinking about preparing your business for a switch to cloud computing, you’re likely wondering what kind of tasks can benefit from it. Here are some examples of the kind of tasks you can take to the cloud:
- Storage and back-up
- Data recovery
- Creating and testing apps
- Data collation and analysis
- Mobile banking
- CRM solutions
- Inventory management
- Logistics
- Accounting.
(Q) – What are the advantages of cloud computing?
(A) – Cloud computing can offer your business a plethora of attractive benefits, including:
- Eliminating the need to invest in expensive, high-capacity services
- No need to hire and compensate expensive in-house experts
- No more worrying about back-ups, maintenance, or troubleshooting
- The ability to enjoy remote access to valuable resources wherever you are
- No more wasting time having to regularly update software
- Keeping your data secure at all times, absent the risk of cybersecurity compromise or natural disaster
- Greater collaboration between departments.
(Q) – How can I prepare my business for the cloud?
(A) – It can take some time to properly execute a cloud migration strategy and the key is excellent communication. First, you must get all stakeholders on board and ensure that everyone involved is regularly informed throughout the process.
More importantly, you need a reputable and well-established cloud computing service provider to guide you through the process and ensure that everything runs as smoothly as possible.
In some cases, your cloud computing provider may even help to ensure that your employees are properly trained and ready for the transition.
Conclusion
All in all, cloud computing is a viable business solution that has helped many companies and organisations streamline their operations by leveraging the plethora of benefits it can bring.
And the best part? You can use cloud computing for as little or as much as you like. If you are only looking to keep your data secure, you can look for cloud backup in Australia. However, if you want to keep your data safe and secure and you wish to have an upgraded CRM system introduced, have help with managing and maintaining the various software’s you use, and so much more – cloud computing is well worth exploring.