A Small Business Guide to Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is one of the major buzzword that emerged during the mid 2010s. For its efficiency and effectiveness for businesses, cloud computing has soon become the need of modern companies.

Whether you're operating on a desktop computer, laptop or a mobile device, you need to have information at your disposal to run your business or make key decisions. This is the convenience that cloud computing delivers.

A quick look at what cloud computing is and how it can help you grow your small business can make it easier for you to understand why it is indispensable for your company.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing refers to IT systems and resources that can be easily and conveniently accessed via the internet. Rather than requiring firms to purchase and manage in-house equipment, the system allows businesses to use the utility as a service by a remote service provider. It is also referred to as 'Hosted IT Solution' or 'Software-as-a-Service'.

What Kinds of Cloud Services Can Businesses Use?

Businesses may use any of the three types of cloud services, namely public, private and hybrid cloud.

Public Cloud

A public cloud is an offsite cloud service that provides users with a separate space within a shared infrastructure. In this environment, the service provider is responsible for everything – from system resources to the security, including the maintenance of the infrastructure. This type of cloud service is perfect for organizations seeking latest technology with high flexibility and cost effectiveness.

Private Cloud

A private cloud is an internally managed cloud platform that offers companies exclusive access and greater control over business resources. For this type of cloud, businesses need to acquire and manage their own software and hardware to build a private data center. Due to its higher cost of installation and maintenance, private cloud is not quite an ideal option for businesses with limited budget, or ones that are anticipating major growth in the upcoming years; because as your business grows, you may feel the need to increase or enhance your internal cloud infrastructure – which could become quite costly.

Hybrid Cloud

Hybrid cloud service employs both private and public clouds. In this environment, part of the cloud is managed in-house while the rest of the cloud management is done off-site. This type of system can be ideal for businesses that utilize large volumes of sensitive data, but have limited resources to manage their data resources.

What are the Benefits of Cloud Computing for Small Businesses?

Cost Savings

With cloud computing, small businesses no longer need to invest in or manage expensive equipment to capitalize on the technology. Besides, it reduces the need to manage technical workforce to run complex in-house equipment.

Safe and Secure IT Landscape

Cloud computing solutions offer back up, high end security, and disaster recovery services to ensure that your data is easily accessible even in the face of a disaster.

If you're looking for an efficient cloud service for your business, get in touch with IT consultants and managed IT services providers, IT-Solutions Canada. For more details, contact them today! it-solutions.ca