Cloud computing is known for using and accessing multiple server-based computational resources via a digital network (Wan, Internet connection using the World Wide Web, etc.). That is how Wikipedia defines it.

But, what does it mean?

Cloud computing can be understood by comparing it to the evolution of public utilities. In addition, one of the best examples we can share is the evolution of electricity. Tracing back to the industrial age, factories need to produce their power to run machines mostly used in manufacturing goods. Specifically, on textile and railroad spikes, the machine is vital in giving companies convenience and advantages in producing a massive amount of goods with a minimal workforce in less time. For quite some time, power production has gone a long way. As a result, the benefits it gives to many companies are as important as the skills of their workers and the quality of products they produce.

Unfortunately, this divides factories into two businesses. One produces its products or goods, and the other produces power. Furthermore, Thomas Edison introduced the concept of delivering power (electricity). In fact, he developed a commercial-grade replacement for gas lighting and heating using electricity. After that, the rest was history, as many would say.

Let's discuss it deeper about Cloud Computing

Today, the transformation has nothing much different with cloud computing. The only factor is technological advancement and internet connectivity instead of cheap and abundant electricity. These two elements are driving down the costs of computing power. With cloud computing, businesses can pay for computing power like a utility without having the expensive costs of hosting, installing, and supporting it on-premise.

Furthermore, We are perfectly sure that you are probably experiencing the benefits of cloud computing without realizing it. We listed below several cloud computing applications, also known as SaaS (software as a service), you might be using or already enjoying.

  • Gmail, Hotmail, or other free e-mail accounts
  • Facebook
  • NetSuite, Salesforce
  • Constant Contact, Exact Target, Aweber, or other e-mail broadcasting services
  • Zoomerang Survey Monkey and other survey tools
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter
  • All things Google (search, Adwords, Maps, etc.)

Note

Almost every application you used today can be ( or already is) being put "in the cloud," where you can access and pay for it via your browser for a monthly fee or utility pricing. In addition, You don't purchase and install software but instead access it via an Internet browser.

Did you know?

Nowadays, the perfect examples of cloud computing trends are Office 365 and Google Apps. Since a cloud provider powers these apps, you don't need an expensive desktop with lots of power to use them. A simple internet connection will do on a laptop, desktop, or tablet.

Pros and Cons of Moving to the Cloud Computing

As you continue reading this article, keep in mind that no solution is "the perfect one." Wherever you apply, all options have upsides and downsides subject to evaluation. It is best to consider a hybrid solution where some of your applications and functionality are in the cloud; some are still hosted while the others are maintained from an in-house server.

Here are the general pros and cons of cloud computing:

Pros

1. Lowered IT Costs- This is probably the most compelling reason why companies choose to move their network to the cloud. In fact, you will not only save money on the software licenses but on hardware (servers and work stations) as well as on IT support and upgrades.
2. Ability to access your desktop and/ or applications from anywhere and any device. - If you travel a lot, have remote workers, or prefer to use a laptop at your house, cloud computing will give you the ability to work from any of these devices.
3. Disaster recovery and backup are automated. -The server in your office is extremely vulnerable to several threats, including viruses, human error, hardware failure, software corruption, and, of course, physical damage due to a fire, flood, or another natural disaster.
4. It's faster, cheaper, and easier to set up new employees. - If you have a seasonal workforce or a lot of turnovers, cloud computing will not only lower your costs of setting up new accounts but will make it infinitely faster.
5. You use it without having to "own" it. More specifically, you don't own the responsibility of installing, updating, and maintaining the infrastructure.
6. It's a "greener" technology that will save on power and your electric bill. The power savings will be too small to measure for smaller companies. However, the savings are considerable for larger corporations with multiple servers that are cooling a hot server room and keeping their servers running 24/7/365.

Cons

1. The Internet going down- While you can mitigate this risk by using a commercial-grade Internet connection and maintaining a second backup connection, there is a chance you'll lose Internet connectivity, making it possible to work.
2. Data Security- Many people don't feel comfortable having their data in some off-site location. This is a valid concern, and before you choose any cloud provider, you need to find out more information about where they are storing the data, how it's encrypted, who has access and how you can get it back.
3. Compliance Issue. -In a public cloud environment, this can be a problem. Many cloud providers won' tell you precisely where your data is stored.

Different Types of Clouds Solutions Explained

Conclusion

Every company has its own unique environment, so it’s practically impossible to try and plan for every potential pitfall; however, There are some BIG things you want to ask your IT consultant about BEFORE making the leap.

What are you waiting for, Talk to us now!