Cloud computing offers numerous benefits for small to midsize businesses
In today’s world, you and your employees need to be able to access your company’s data, software and programs quickly, efficiently and from anywhere, from any device, anytime. This could be from a mobile phone at home, a tablet while out in the field or a laptop computer while in the office. Introducing cloud computing.
What is cloud computing?
Cloud computing allows users to access data and programs stored on a remote server anywhere the user has an internet connection. This could include accessing networks, software, analytics, intelligence, databases, or servers and storage.
With advancements in broadband internet and smart mobile technology, cloud computing is becoming more and more popular with businesses. Chances are your business is already using cloud computing in some way, such as accessing popular business applications like Salesforce, Dropbox or Hubspot.
Advantages of cloud computing
Backed up data and disaster recovery
Files are safe in the cloud even if your hardware fails or your physical location suffers a loss from a natural disaster.
Accessibility and flexibility
Users can access any software or program as if they were in the office. With field workers this is especially valuable. With more remote workers than ever before, this is essential.
Collaboration
Files in the cloud are automatically synced between devices so users are always in the current version.
Cost savings
Buying, storing and maintaining a server requires time, money, space and expert knowledge. Cloud services store your data without you having to worry about managing a server. Cloud services are usually a monthly expense and are both manageable and consistent.
Software updates
Applications in the cloud refresh and update on their own, which saves users time and ensures they are using the most recent version.
Security
Cloud hosts monitor security extremely close. Servers are usually located in warehouses that the majority of worker’s don’t have access to and files are encrypted. Cloud providers are constantly updating their security, monitoring activity and taking steps to protect your data.
Choosing cloud computing services for your business
While understanding what cloud computing is and all the advantages it offers is clear, choosing the right type of cloud services and at what rate is where it can get more complex.
There are three main cloud services. They are infrastructure as a service or IaaS, platform as a service or PaaS and software as a service or Saas.
IaaS replaces physical hardware like servers. Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure are popular IaaS solutions. PaaS gives access to cloud-based tools like APIs and web portals. SaaS gives users access to software over the internet. Employees are most familiar with SaaS and businesses frequently use Microsoft 365.
A business must also consider how the cloud service provider will store their data. There are public clouds, private clouds and hybrid clouds.
Public clouds share an infrastructure and are cost effective. Private clouds are more expensive than public clouds but give your business more access and control over their cloud. A hybrid cloud features components of both public and private clouds.
I want my business in the cloud
Insight BTR can evaluate your business, its needs and its requirements. From there it will present to you cloud solutions that are right for your business, so you can be confident your employees and business are operating effectively, efficiently and securely while also saving time and money.
To discuss cloud computing for your business, schedule an appointment online, email info@insightbtr.com or call 608-661-0750.
Insight BTR is an IT managed service provider serving south central Wisconsin. Its goal is to provide IT solutions to help your business grow.