Cloud computing has become a buzzword in recent times similar to what internet was a decade ago. Businesses large and small are jumping on that bandwagon like there is no tomorrow. The IT service providers are also moving at a rapid pace to develop the cloud computing functionality and offer it at the lowest possible price to their customers. But is cloud computing all the hype without any substance. Looking at the adoption by businesses it doesn’t appear to be. Sure there are pros and cons of using cloud based system over tradition IT infrastructure. Below we explain what they are and how you can take advantage of the latest phenomenon known as cloud.
Pros of Cloud Computing
Environment Friendly
Moving your business to the cloud is cost effective for many reasons, but if you want to help planet Earth while you’re there, it takes less resources to compute information. When servers are not used, the infrastructure will usually scale down, consuming less power and energy and therefore reduces your carbon footprint.
More Storage Space
In comparison to a personal computer, the cloud can store much more data, eliminating worries about running out of storage space and at the same time spares businesses the need to keep upgrading their computer hardware with every new operating system that comes by, further reducing the overall I.T. cost.
Reduced Cost
As well as reducing the cost of the hardware, integrating the system is easier, such as introducing new members to the cloud and therefore reducing waiting times and making the business more cost effective. In an article titled “Your Fancy New Car is About as Useful as Your Corporate Data Center”, Mark Hurd describes how he believes that all development testing will move to the cloud within 10 years and reduce waiting times further.
Document Recovery
The cloud is an instant document recovery tool, as there is no physical system for information to be stored on, and cloud service suppliers offer flexible backup and recovery options.
Cons of Cloud Computing
Technical Issues
The cloud setup is entirely dependent on the availability of the internet. No internet, no cloud. While each business does their best to minimize internet downtime, it cannot be helped when there is a major issue with the server that needs addressing instantly. It can cost many man hours in fixing the gremlins in the system, while at the same time costing your company precious time in the work that is not being completed.
Security and Privacy
If a company is using a remote cloud based infrastructure, a company essentially gives away sensitive and confidential information. Also, from an employee’s point of view, transmitting information via the cloud requires a certain amount of trust, especially when there are many stories about personal data being leaked in the media.
Software Incompatibility Problems
Depending on the computer, there may be issues with compatibility, as some applications will not connect to a personal computer.
Having a cloud for your business is something that can benefit your business greatly, reducing the cost in some aspects, but increasing it in other ways. Running a business with the internet at its core is a commonality now, and if yours is one of those think about if it is time to head up to the cloud or to stay down on the ground with your hardware.
Related posts:
A neat Picture of the Advantages of Cloud Computing – How to Gain Benefits From it. and Cons – How to Solve Issues from it. Thanks for this post. Its very Useful and Mainly Cost Effective using Cloud for Business.