Cloud computing refers to storing and accessing information over the Internet rather than over your computer’s hard drive. Many small businesses are tapping into this technology as more and more tools become available — such as the popular file sharing service, Google Drive.
While these cloud based tools and services offer numerous advantages, some drawbacks have been noted as well. Here’s what you need to know before you decide how to leverage cloud computing for your small business. Let’s take a look at the major cloud computing pros and cons:
PROS
Cost Efficient: This is the biggest advantage as you’re no longer paying for in-house data storage and maintenance, software updates and management. You’ll see your company’s IT expenses drop significantly as cloud computing reduces in-house maintenance and streamlines use. One-time-payment and pay-as-you-go options are available, which can be seen as a plus for your company.
Increased Storage Space: Compared to your normal computer, the cloud offers unlimited storage space. This will have you saving storage space on your hard drive, and takes away the hassle of having to upgrade or worry about storage space.
Continuous Availability: Public clouds are easily accessible whenever and wherever you’ll need them. Whether that be at the comfort of your home or in your office space. It allows for multiple people to share and connect to the same files in the cloud via several electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, etc).
Backup and Recovery: With your data all being stored in one space, backing up and restoring is much simpler versus a physical device. You can also use some cloud computing tools to backup the data saved to your computer.
Quick Deployment: Your cloud can be fully functioning within seconds. From there new users can be added promptly.
CONS
Security: This seems to be the biggest issue since private data and information will be exposed to a third-party cloud service provider. It’s crucial that you find a provider you can trust as they manage, retain and protect your sensitive information.
Downtime: Cloud computing is dependent on internet connection, therefore if the internet has outages or connection problems then the cloud will too.
Inflexibility: Since the system runs on a remote, this leaves you with little control over the hardware.
Lack of Support: As with any system, customer service isn’t immediate and can take up to 48 hours, which is not ideal when you’re relying solely on your cloud.
If used correctly, cloud computing could be a great opportunity for your small business, provided you do your research and find secure solutions. Of all the cloud computing options that would benefit your business, cloud backup makes it into the top of the list. No matter what type of cloud computing tools you use within your company, cloud backup adds an additional layer of data protection, should those cloud computing options ever fail or result in the deletion of data.
By saving your data to the cloud, your company can avoid data loss due to natural disaster, accidental deletion, human error, hardware damage, and more. For a safe, reliable and affordable cloud backup option, try Nordic Backup. Get the most out of your cloud computing tools. Sign up today for your FREE 30-day, risk-free trial of Nordic Backup.
