Cloud computing is computing based on the internet. It is a practice of using a network of remote servers hosted on the internet to store, manage and process data. In the past, applications or programs were run from software downloaded on a physical computer but cloud computing allows access to the same kinds of applications through the internet.
Cloud computing is involved in our lives more than we know. From updating your Facebook status to checking your account balance on your phone, it’s all cloud computing. It has also revolutionized the way companies do business by increasing efficiency, improving cash flow and offering many more benefits. Let us explore more reasons to go down the Cloud computing route in more detail –
The cloud actually saves you money
Cost is always at the forefront of everyone’s mind in a business. One of the best advantages of the cloud hosting is that it saves you money in the long run since you don’t have to hire a tech support team to fix server issues or buy any expensive equipment for your business.
In addition, cloud computing is scalable which means that you don’t need to invest a large amount of money upfront to get the ball rolling, which is particularly useful for smaller businesses. If your business expands, you can invest in more cloud services; if not, you can scale down without having wasted any money initially.
Cloud has better security
Cloud computing offers great security in case any sensitive data is lost. Since the data is stored in the system, it can be easily accessed even if something happens to your computer. The data can also be remotely wiped out from the lost machines to avoid getting it in the wrong hands. The best part is that it is the cloud providers’ job to ensure your data is safe and they can arguably dedicate more time to doing this than an internal IT team who have other responsibilities.
Cloud is flexible
Cloud offers a flexible facility which could be turned off, up or down according to the circumstances of the user. Hence, it is an ideal option for businesses with growing or fluctuating bandwidth demands. If your needs increase it is easier to scale up your cloud capacity, drawing on the service’s remote servers. Likewise, if you need to scale down, the flexibility is baked into the service. This level of agility can give a real advantage to your business.
Cloud can work from anywhere
With cloud computing, all you need is an internet connection and you can be at work at your convenience. Being able to access files anywhere means employees have the ability to work remotely.
The result? Employees can enjoy the work-life balance that suits them – without productivity taking a hit.
Cloud can control who sees what
File-sharing sounds like a free-for-all but the cloud actually gives you control over who can access what. Cloud computing allows you to pick out the documents which can and cannot be edited, viewed and shared by which users. Also, it allows real-time collaboration so you don’t have 100 versions of the same file floating around.
Cloud is always on
Have you ever forgot an important file at work? Or your flash drive didn’t properly save it or maybe your email to yourself never went through. Well, these are really unfortunate scenarios that we have to deal with at work every day. But with the cloud, you don’t have to rush all the way back to the office to grab something from your server since it is always on. If you have an internet connection you can access the applications you need from anywhere.
Cloud reduces your carbon footprint
Cloud computing requires less physical servers which allow companies to downsize their data centers or maybe get rid of them completely. Fewer servers mean fewer resources. Plus, the increased ability to share files requires fewer printouts among your team, saving the planet and saving you money. Hence, with cloud, the environment gets a little love too!
Any three of the above advantages would be enough to convince a business to move to the cloud. But when you add up all of them? It’s approaching no-brainer territory. With minimal risk, increased security and more flexibility, the cloud is definitely the future of business. So, don’t wait. Save yourself the time, money and resources and put your business on the cloud.