Working in the cloud: we are doing it more and more. Not surprising, because it has many advantages for your company. But what exactly is cloud computing? Why do you want it? And how do you implement it in a safe way in your company? In this article we will tell you more about it.
Cloud computing for businesses is simply the delivery of IT services via the internet. Well-known examples of this are mail services such as Gmail and Outlook. By storing data online instead of on physical, local servers, you always have access to your data. From any location and on any device. Handy. And nowadays almost self-evident. In fact, we can no longer do without it.
Cloud computing is becoming increasingly popular.
More and more companies are opting to work in the cloud. According to Statistics Netherlands (CBS), 66 percent of companies in the Netherlands used paid cloud services in 2021. By comparison, in 2018 this was ‘only’ 49 percent. And companies worldwide are also spending more and more on cloud computing.
For many companies, cost savings are the most important reason to start with cloud computing. Because setting up and certainly maintaining an internal IT infrastructure is expensive. Using cloud storage is usually a lot cheaper. For example, you often only pay for the amount of data you use and less for maintenance. Good for your wallet. But cloud computing has more advantages. We list the most important ones for you:
1. You have access to your data and apps anytime, anywhere.
Whether you work from home, in the office or on the road: with cloud computing you have access to your data and applications anytime, anywhere. All you need is a stable internet connection.
2. Cloud storage is reliable and secure.
With cloud computing, you run less risk of data loss. Because automatic backups are often made and there are various recovery options in the event of failures. The security of most cloud providers is also very well organized. This is because they have to meet the strict legal requirements for data security.
3. Cloud computing is scalable.
Cloud computing is flexible. As a company, you can easily scale up or down and increase capacity (temporarily). This way, you always have enough cloud storage.
Cloud implementation: what should you pay attention to?
Are you looking to implement cloud computing in your business? There are a few important things to consider before you do so. Start by analyzing your existing IT structure and think about what you want to achieve. Once you know that, you can determine which type of cloud implementation is best for your business: a public, private or hybrid cloud. We will explain the differences to you.
- Public cloud
With a public cloud, you share the server you use with other companies. Google Drive and Dropbox are examples of this. A public cloud is the storage choice that is implemented most often. Because it is relatively cheap and very accessible. It is also easy to quickly scale up or down a public cloud if you want.
- Private cloud
A private cloud is, as the name suggests, used exclusively by 1 company. This gives you much more control over the security and qualities of the cloud. A smart choice, but you will see that reflected in the costs. Private clouds are mainly used by companies that work with sensitive information.
- Hybrid cloud
Do you want a combination of the options above? That is also possible. With a hybrid cloud, you can store sensitive information in a private cloud, but use a public cloud for things that require little security.
Migrating to the cloud.
Have you made a choice for a cloud? Great. Find a cloud provider that suits your needs and you can get started. Well-known providers are Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services. It is smart to compare different providers. Because each provider has its own advantages and disadvantages. Such as differences in costs and reliability. Once the choice has been made, you can move towards the migration step by step. Determine how you want to migrate all business applications and data and get started.
Last tip: make sure your employees know how to use the new cloud solution. For example, organize a training day or write a clear manual. It will all help you with a smooth transition to the cloud.
Fast and secure connection to your favorite cloud provider.
Did you know that ITkothon also has its own cloud solution? With Cloud Connect you get safe and guaranteed access to applications at the most used cloud providers. That’s what you want.
