If you are wondering about the cloud, read on to out which Cloud Computing Solution is the right fit for your business.
Most likely you’ve heard all of the commotion around cloud computing and know that it’s the “Next Big Thing” in business technology. Yet, despite all of the hype, most businesses really don’t understand exactly what cloud computing is and what it could do to help their business. “What are my options?” and “What is right for me?” are two of the top questions that I hear quite often. There are at least 4 types of cloud computing solutions for your business. Which one is right for you?
First there is Pure Cloud: This is where all your applications and data are put on the other side of your firewall meaning they are totally in the cloud and accessed through various devices (laptops, desktops, iPads, phones) via the Internet.
Second there is Hybrid Cloud: Although “pure” cloud computing has valid applications, for many it’s downright scary. And in some cases it is NOT the smartest move due to compliance issues, security restrictions or performance issues. A hybrid cloud enables you to put certain pieces of existing IT infrastructure (say, storage and e-mail) in the cloud, and the remainder of the IT infrastructure stays on-premise. This gives you the ability to enjoy the cost savings and benefits of cloud computing where it makes the most sense without risking your entire environment.
Third is Point Solutions. This is simply to put certain applications, like SharePoint or Microsoft Exchange, in the cloud while keeping everything else on-site. Since e-mail is usually a critical application that everyone needs and wants access to on the road and on various devices like tablets, this solution is often a great way to get the advanced features of Microsoft Exchange without the cost of installing and supporting your own in-house Exchange server.
And finally is Public Cloud vs. Private Cloud. A public cloud is a service that anyone can tap into with a network connection and a credit card. They are shared infrastructures that allow you to pay-as-you-go and are managed through a self-service web portal. Private clouds are essentially self-built infrastructures that mimic public cloud services, but are on-premise. Private clouds are often the choice of companies who want the benefits of cloud computing but don’t want their data held in a public environment.
Keep in mind that there is no “perfect” one-size-fits-all cloud solution for every business. All options have upsides and downsides. Which option is best for your business has to be determined on a case-by-case basis based on your company’s needs and business requirements and should be reviewed by your IT provider like ourselves.
Watch my video, Which Cloud Computing Solution is Right For You, and visit our website, Hire An IT Expert, for more information.
