Businesses are adopting cloud computing at a rapid pace. But even with its positive impact on businesses in a variety of industries, there are still plenty of myths and misconceptions about what cloud computing can (and can\u2019t) do.<\/p>\n
Do you have cloud computing questions? As you explore the following cloud computing myths and facts, the capabilities, advantages, and limits of cloud computing should become clear.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll no longer have control over your files.<\/em><\/strong> With cloud computing, you\u2019re simply moving the location of your files (and in most cases, improving security measures). The files are still yours to access and use as needed, while being protected from others.<\/p>\n Cloud computing will cost you more.<\/em><\/strong> There are several factors that need to be taken into consideration to determine if cloud computing makes sense from a financial standpoint. Calculate how much it costs to currently operate and maintain in-house servers, including related IT costs.<\/p>\n Compare this number to quoted cloud computing prices, keeping in mind that you\u2019ll only pay for the computing power your business needs. With security and maintenance built into the cost, most businesses see substantial savings by switching to the cloud.<\/p>\n The cloud is less secure.<\/em><\/strong> Making the switch to a secure file sharing service<\/a> is a simple yet effective way companies can prevent brand-crushing data leaks. But at the same time, assuming a cloud provider is secure is never recommended. Before migrating data to the cloud, security measures should be demonstrated and proven effective by a provider.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll still need an IT staff.<\/em><\/strong> They\u2019ll be able to focus on improving your company\u2019s network rather than focusing on storing, backing up, and maintaining stored data. If you\u2019re working with a limited IT staff, they won\u2019t have to spend the majority of their day focused on data security measures. Cloud storage providers come with a team of security support staff. Think of it this way. A company that utilizes appointment setting software still needs receptionists. You\u2019ll still need your IT staff, but they\u2019ll be able to focus on more pressing matters than storage.<\/p>\n There are different types of clouds.<\/em><\/strong> A Public Cloud is hosted by a cloud service vendor. Storage centers are held by the provider and shared between businesses. A Private Cloud is dedicated to a single organization and is more expensive to operate. A Hybrid Cloud is the use of both a Public and Private cloud simultaneously.<\/p>\n Business owners in the process of switching to cloud computing often believe Private Clouds are more secure. However, cloud computing facts show us that Public Clouds often provide additional layers of protection. Described as \u201capartment-level\u201d security by industry experts, Public Clouds require access to the cloud itself, and then to any secured data, just like an apartment building requires access to the lobby and then an apartment. Private Clouds lack these extra levels of protection.<\/p>\n Cloud security is everyone\u2019s responsibility.<\/em><\/strong>
\nMany business owners fear that they\u2019ll lose control over their files when moving them to an online file sharing platform<\/a>. If you have the same concerns, think of moving your files to the cloud as moving your personal items to a storage unit. Even if the contents are no longer physically in your possession, ownership hasn\u2019t changed. The items are still yours to use as you wish.<\/p>\n
\nThis myth holds businesses back from exploring cloud computing options. While there could be scenarios where moving to the cloud does result in additional costs, cloud computing often saves companies resources, including money.<\/p>\n
\nThis is one of the most common cloud computing myths. But when we explore the history of security breaches, the vast majority originate in on-premise data centers. Statistics have shown that human error is the main cause behind data leaks, signaling that companies need to improve their internal data sharing protocols.<\/p>\nCloud Computing Facts<\/h2>\n
\nSome companies fear the loss of their IT staff is a reason to not switch to cloud computing. The cloud doesn\u2019t replace an IT staff, unless your IT personnel were simply watching over files. Your IT staff will still be busy working on internal issues.<\/p>\n
\nKnowing the different types of clouds can help you choose the proper online storage solution for your company.<\/p>\n
\nGoing back to our storage unit analogy, moving items to a secure location is a great first step towards improved security. But you\u2019re not off the hook once you leave the facility. While the storage unit company will do their best to make sure the premises are safe, it\u2019s still up to you to manage the contents of your unit.<\/p>\n