Cloud computing can be simply described as the action of taking services and moving them outside of an organisation’s local servers or personal devices to access them via the internet. The services are usually used and paid for on an as-needed or pay-per-use basis.
The Key Types of Cloud Computing
Public Cloud
These are owned and operated by a third-party provider where accessing your account is done using the internet. All hardware, software and other infrastructure are owned by the third-party provider.
Private Cloud
A private Cloud resource is used exclusively by a single business and can also be located internally. It can also be managed by a third-party provider however, the services and infrastructure would be located on a private network.
Hybrid Cloud
As the name suggests, this type of Cloud is a ‘Hybrid’ of the Public and Private Cloud types. Data is able to bounce between Public and Private Cloud systems, giving organisations greater flexibility and security.
Multi-Cloud
This type means that an organisation has multiple providers managing its Cloud infrastructure and applications. This allows you to place certain pieces of work into where it performs best.
The Benefits of Cloud Computing
Instead of holding all services internally, organisations turn to storing their services externally in The Cloud to benefit from the following advantages:
- Cost – Having The Cloud means there’s no need to spend money on buying hardware and software and setting up on-site data centres.
- Security – You won’t have to worry about your company’s computer systems failing and losing all critical data and applications. Some Cloud providers even use remote servers to back-up the data that they keep secure – so losing any information you’ve stored on The Cloud just isn’t possible.
- Speed – Most Cloud providers allow customers to access their data on-demand, making access flexible and quick but not putting security at risk.
- Access Anywhere, Anytime – Placing data into The Cloud means that any data can be available outside of an organisation’s IT system.
- Reliability – Having a Cloud can give you peace of mind that your organisation is protected against losing data, potential disasters and the possible large costs it could take to recover lost information.
- Scalability – The Cloud can evolve and grow with your business by delivering the right amount of IT resources exactly when and where it’s needed.
The Disadvantages of Cloud Computing
Even though we would recommend using Cloud Computing to store data, there are bound to be some disadvantages to the benefits of holding data outside of an organisation.
- Bandwidth Limitations – Cloud providers may only allow a certain amount of data to be transferred across a given path at a time, which could mean additional costs if an organisation goes over the limit. At Economit, we can guide you through the best Cloud provider for you, to ensure that you are fully aware of the small print and any potential charges.
- Data Security – Even though Cloud security is high, storing data outside of organisations and placing it into the responsibility of a provider can make some companies cautious. Before committing, be aware that you are passing sensitive information to a third-party provider. We can impartially and independently advise on the most reliable Cloud provider to ensure your information is as secure as possible.
- Accessibility – If you’ve got no internet connection, you have no access to your stored services and data.
- Data Management – The data management systems of an organisation don’t always suit a Cloud’s system and structure. We can help you greatly in this department by ensuring that your organisation works in line with your Cloud and vise-versa.
- Compliance – Depending on the type of industry your organisation is in, it may not be possible for you to work within The Cloud. Industries such as healthcare and financial have to be particularly careful about where their information and services are stored for security and access reasons.
If your business is in the East Midlands or London, contact us about your Cloud Computing needs. We offer independent, impartial assessments and guidance.
