The speed of change in today’s marketplace gives an advantage to businesses that adapt quickly to market conditions. Cloud computing gives businesses the flexibility to grow or shrink their IT use as their needs change. Easy scalability means these companies never pay for more than they need.
Switching to a cloud environment typically means transitioning from hosting and operating IT resources locally to having a third party deliver those services instead. With cloud computing services, scalability is easy. As business cycles wax and wane, you only pay for what you use.
Cloud computing services keep costs in check-especially for companies that experience dramatic swings in their sales cycles. Or companies that are growing fast and need to be able to get more server capacity immediately. With cloud computing, businesses bump up or scale back the load on their cloud servers with a simple phone call. In addition, they avoid overspending on in-house equipment that has more capacity than they need. And let’s not forget the time spent shopping for all that equipment.
Businesses in an unpredictable market space use cloud computing as a tactical advantage. Companies whose employees frequently work outside the office also benefit. With remote access to cloud file servers and applications, employees can access, upload, and download files using any internet-connected device whether they’re in Topeka or Tripoli. To maximize this benefit, many companies are starting to implement a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy, which not only keeps workers connected, but frees companies from individual computer purchases.
There are three types of cloud computing environments.
Private Cloud
The servers and equipment powering your private cloud are controlled by your IT department, which makes private cloud the most secure option. It is also, however, the most expensive option since your company owns and maintains the system. Many small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) find the cost of this option does not fit their budget.
Public Cloud
In this arrangement, you share IT resources with other users. Each user gets segmented server space in the provider’s data center. It’s a more economical option than private cloud, since multiple entities essentially “rent” server space. And of course, you don’t have to buy and maintain the equipment. The better providers of public cloud offer good customization options and a variety of service tiers to choose from.
Hybrid Cloud
Hybrid Cloud blends the best of public and private cloud. In a hybrid environment, the crucial (and most sensitive) IT resources are managed via private cloud while less-critical resources are delivered via public cloud.
More and more companies are taking advantage of cloud computing—to make the company more flexible and the budget more predictable. With the 3 main options outlined above, you might wonder which serves your needs best. Hybrid cloud is gaining popularity but the other options suit some companies well, depending on their needs. There’s nothing like a conversation with an expert to help you figure out what’s best for you. As you probably guessed, we have such experts here at Dynamic Quest and they would be happy to discuss your situation.
71% of SMBs are outsourcing their IT needs to a managed service provider.
Billions of devices will be connected to the Internet of Things by 2025, exponentially increasing demand for MSPs to back up growing companies.
$500 billion will be spent in the greater cloud market by 2020.
More than 90% of businesses are either evaluating, adopting or embracing the cloud.
The average price of a data breach now stands at about $4 million.
93% of businesses file for bankruptcy after losing data for 10 or more days.
“We believe our success is due to the strength of our team, the breadth of our services, our flexibility in responding to clients, and our focus on strategic support.”
Javier Gomez, CEO
70% of SMBs reported suffering a security breach during the previous 12 months – and companies with fewer than 500 employees were the most vulnerable, with a 75% breach rate.