Cloud computing is all the rage today, and it isn’t hard to see why that is so. It offers a level of interconnectedness that is even greater than that which the internet already offers. At the same time, it offers a versatile solution that can be used across all industries and populations. While there are also some concerns about this new technology, it is clear that it offers more benefits than risks. With that in mind, let’s go over the subject of cloud computing and detail some of its key advantages.
Efficient And Reliable Data Backup
Every computer user faces the constant danger of data loss, and this danger is particularly severe for businesses. On top of that, you have the danger of ransomware. Ransomware is a type of malware that locks you out of your computer and/or your files until a monetary ransom is paid. Needless to say, good data backups can defeat both of these threats.
Storing backups on physical media (like optical discs, external hard drives, etc.) is always an option, but there is just one problem: The expense of buying all that physical media! As you accumulate more and more data, you will have to buy more and more storage media, and it will eventually get to a point where the juice isn’t worth the squeeze. The cloud solves this problem neatly by letting you store all your backups on their servers. Since these backups will be located off-site, they will normally be safe from physical intruders and hackers alike.
Financial Savings
Although this isn’t always the case, most people will find that they save some money by moving to the cloud. This is usually the case because the cloud replaces some of your hardware needs. By using the shared resources of an entire network, you can offset the flaws of your computer. When used in a business setting, the financial benefits of the cloud become even more obvious.
The cloud allows you to eliminate any IT staff who aren’t pulling their weight. Once you migrate to the cloud, those people will become less crucial, but we advise you to avoid firing them all. You should definitely keep those who have proven their worth, but you can trim away those who have not. The cloud and its resources will more than make up the difference.
Easy Scalability
Whether your needs are big or small, the cloud can meet them. When you create a cloud account, your provider will certainly ask you to choose the limits on your storage and bandwidth. Obviously, more of these things will mean a higher monthly rate, but you may have no choice. Either way, the structure of the cloud makes it easy to use as much (or as little) as you need.
This is in stark contrast to physical storage media, which requires a large investment of money whenever an upgrade is needed. Again, much of this comes down to equipment-related expenses. When you need to upgrade your cloud capacity, you can just call your provider, change your plan, and the job is done. Your monthly rate increases, but that is the only expense.
More Reliable Performance For Remote Workers
When so many people are working from home, it would be negligent to avoid this topic. The cloud provides a much more consistent and reliable level of performance for those who are working remotely. It will allow them to use the same resources as your in-person employees, and to stay updated on everything the company is doing.
If you are a remote worker yourself, you might recommend the cloud to your employer, both for your interests and theirs. When it is easier to log onto the company network from home, it will be easier to get work done, and we can’t make it much simpler than that!
Frequent And Automatic Updates
Ordinarily, most computer systems require frequent updates. If you choose to run a server, that means even more updating, and more severe consequences. When servers go down, they take whole networks with them, and they have to interface with a huge variety of different machines. Without frequent updates, it can be easy for them to crash due to system incompatibilities.
The cloud makes it easy to keep things updated because this kind of thing is normally done automatically. One of the things that you pay for with your monthly rate is the ability to forget about all that updating and concentrate on things that matter more to you.
Better Security
Some people say that the cloud is less secure, but they are only half-right. In truth, it all depends on how you use and configure the cloud servers. As such, this is in the hands of your cloud service provider. Still, a reputable company knows that its reputation depends on its ability to safeguard your data. That’s why cloud providers usually put more emphasis on security than other types of managed service providers.
On a general note, the cloud also provides better security because it compartmentalizes your sensitive information. When your sensitive info is separated from your regular computer systems, that means one more set of barriers through which a prospective attacker will have to break. Every one of those barriers is another chance for them to either fail or be caught in the act.
Conclusion
Cloud computing will probably continue to grow in popularity, especially if its limitations can be adequately addressed. Still, it seems that all of the biggest companies are using this kind of software, so it must be offering something beneficial to them. Let’s recap what we have learned:
- The cloud makes it easier to back up your data
- The cloud gives you a safe place to store backups and other sensitive info
- The cloud will usually be a cheaper option
- The cloud can be customized for the scale of anyone’s needs
- The cloud makes things run smoother for remote workers
- The cloud updates itself, so you don’t have to worry
- The cloud is more secure, but only if used correctly
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