What Business Benefits do Cloud Computing Services Provide?
What Business Benefits do Cloud Computing Services Provide?
Whether you’re an SME or a larger enterprise, it’s very likely that you use some sort of internal server to store and share data between employees. Many businesses in the UK and around the world are opting to transition to cloud computing, but does it really provide any tangible benefits over traditional servers?
At CAB IT Services, we work with businesses across Bristol and the South West to establish flexible, secure and scalable cloud computing services. In this article we’ll cover some of the main benefits that cloud computing offers while running through some of the downsides too, helping you make an informed decision on whether a cloud network is right for your business.
What is Cloud Computing?
The cloud has been around for roughly 20 years at this point, and despite taking some time to catch on, has been widely adopted by businesses of all shapes and sizes. ‘The cloud’ is any server that is accessed remotely through the internet, which means that you don’t need to find space for a hefty physical server of your own.
By providing a convenient, managed service, cloud computing takes a lot of the hassle and time-consuming maintenance out of the business’ hands, allowing them to focus on more important matters.
What are the Advantages of Cloud Computing for Businesses?
There’s a whole host of benefits to switching to cloud computing, which explains why many businesses are taking the leap.
No Hardware Costs
One of the most obvious benefits, by transitioning to the cloud you no longer need to pay for costly hardware installations, upgrades or maintenance. Servers are stored and maintained by the service provider, meaning that you don’t have to pay a penny for server upkeep, and you can use the extra space in the office for something nice (office dog, anyone?).
Scales Depending on Demand – Pay for What You Use
Server use can vary wildly on a month-by-month basis, especially if your business is seasonal or rapidly growing. Fortunately, cloud servers are fully scalable, meaning that you only pay for what you use. This allows you to cope with sudden booms, while saving money in the drier months.
Securely Stores Data
Good cloud servers will come with full end-to-end encryption in order to protect your data. This is especially important with the rise of remote working, as unsecured networks are one of the main ways that costly data leaks happen. It’s worth finding a provider that securely stores your data in the UK to ensure your data is safe, and data protection laws are adhered to.
Improve Business Continuity
In the unfortunate event of a disaster, be it natural or a cyber-attack, cloud computing can aid with business continuity, allowing you to get back on your feet quickly and efficiently. Backing up data can be costly (and time consuming) if done manually. Cloud servers will frequently back up all data, meaning that if there’s any failure, data is instantly recoverable, minimising any downtime of your website and preventing further damages.
Fully Managed Software
As cloud computing is software as a service, any laborious maintenance and updates are handled by the provider, meaning that your servers will remain consistently up to date. This will save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
Mobility
Cloud servers are accessible via the internet, which means that employees can conveniently connect to your servers while on the go. This allows remote staff or staff with long commutes to access crucial data from anywhere with an internet connection; it doesn’t get much more convenient than that!
Environmentally Friendly
Many cloud computing providers are extremely conscious of their carbon footprint. By swapping from a greater number of smaller, in-house servers to single large-scale cloud servers, businesses can effectively reduce their emissions. Using a virtual environment that is only accessed when required results in less energy consumption overall.
Are There Any Disadvantages of the Cloud?
While there’s lots of good things to say about cloud computing, there are a handful of small drawbacks to consider before committing.
Internet Dependent
In order to access your cloud server, you’ll require a good internet connection. While this isn’t an issue for most modern businesses, if you struggle with internet in your building, an in-house network might be the better option.
Technical Issues
Switching over to the cloud also means that if you’re experiencing any technical issues, you’ll need to rely on your provider to manage them quickly to avoid downtime. When looking at providers, make sure that they offer provide flexible IT support. It’s important that you have the peace of mind knowing that your network is in good hands.
What Businesses Benefit from Cloud Computing?
The honest answer? Any business will see benefits from cloud computing! Businesses ranging from start-ups to local business, or from SMEs to larger conglomerates; cloud computing allows you the responsiveness and agility required to keep up with everything that’s going on. As cloud services are fully adjustable depending on usage, your server can easily grow with you, meaning that you’re always ready for whatever happens.
Cloud Computing with CAB IT Services
At CAB IT Services, we take a flexible approach, identifying the most effective solution to suit your business’ unique needs. Our cloud service is fully flexible, reliable and completely secure.
If you’d like to find out more about how we can help with anything IT, get in touch with our team. We’re on hand to discuss anything, from cloud computing to cyber security – we cover it all.
Telephones / VoIP
CAB IT Connect is a VoIP telephone system hosted within your own private cloud and designed to integrated.
Business Continuity
Recover critical data quickly Should you experience a server failure. Yhe SIRIS can have your Windows or Linux environment and data recreated in minutes from the local device or the Datto Cloud.
Office 365 / Cloud
Office 365 is a cloud-based service hosted by Microsoft that brings together familiar Microsoft Office desktop applications with business-class email, shared calendars, instant messaging (IM), video conferencing and file sharing.
Cyber Security
According to over 1,700 IT service providers, the lack of cybersecurity awareness amongst employees is a leading cause of a successful ransomware attack against an SMB.
Secure Destruction
Most businesses think GDPR only refers to personal data used for marketing and sales purposes, but…
The GDPR definition of data processing is wide, and a major part of the GDPR includes the erasure and destruction of personal data.
Procurement
Expert IT procurement plays an important role within the provision of IT services, especially as IT budgets are constantly under scrutiny and purchase decisions need to be justified.
Managed Networks
Modern offices seek a network infrastructure solution that intelligently combines voice and data networks. In order to optimize the performance of their converged network, it requires visibility, control and manageability…maximizing the productivity of users across the network.
Asset Management
As a key requirement of GDPR compliance for every business, it is important that the management of your IT Assets isn’t an admin task that is overlooked.
Web Design
We work with you to design and build a professional website that will truly represent your brand.
IT Support
We provide very flexible IT Support working effectively through one of our completely customised IT Support Packages.
Internet
Through a variety of connectivity partners CAB IT Services can offer a huge range of business connectivity services.
Wifi
Our Wi-Fi System is a scalable enterprise grade access point solution designed to be deployed and managed within any environment.
Network Infrastructure
In partnership with carefully selected third parties we provide network infrastructure data cabling installations in Bristol and throughout the South West.
