Although many of us make use of it every day, how much do we really know about “the cloud” — that magical place where all of your photos, videos, and important documents are stored to free up valuable space on your smartphone? Put simply, cloud computing involves a vast network of servers, each with a different function. Some networks run applications (i.e., deliver a service). Other networks are responsible for housing the data.
But what are the benefits of maintaining your files on the cloud? To help you better understand the function and value of this complex technology, we’ve outlined some key advantages below.
Key Benefits of the Cloud
Cloud computing offers exceptional flexibility while ensuring optimal data security. For instance, the cloud’s infrastructure scales on demand to accommodate fluctuating workloads. Need more capacity? It’s easy to scale up, drawing on the remote servers. Not working as much? Simply use fewer resources. This flexibility gives companies that make use of cloud computing a significant advantage over their less advanced competitors.
Different Storage Available
In fact, “operational agility” is the main reason companies migrate to the cloud, according to Salesforce, a top player in the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software industry. Users can also choose between public, private, or hybrid storage, depending on their specific needs. There’s also flexibility when it comes to costs, which we’ll address later in further detail.
Offering reliable data security, businesses can make use of the virtual private cloud, various encryption tools, and API keys to help keep sensitive information safe. And you’ll have one less headache if your computer is stolen or malfunctioning, as you’ll still be able to access your data since the storage is decoupled from the user's machine.
Cost Effectiveness
Storing data in the cloud offers other benefits, as well. To start, it’s extremely cost-effective. Since remote servers are used, businesses don’t need to invest in servers, software, and other supporting equipment such as redundant systems or an Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS). Additional cost savings result from the fact that a business which leverages cloud services does not need to incur the costs associated with facility space or the electrical service and cooling required to hosting this equipment on site. Companies are able to pay as they go in a subscription-based model, which is often relatively inexpensive.
Enhanced Communication
Next, cloud computing facilitates enhanced collaboration and communication. Teams based anywhere in the world — whether in their living rooms, coffee shops, or office buildings — can easily work together to complete projects. Keeping data in the cloud and making use of file-sharing apps allows workers to make updates in real time. Not only does this assist workers in achieving their goals and responsibilities, it also improves the bottom line while reducing time-to-market and boosting product development and customer satisfaction.
Environmentally Friendly
Finally, cloud computing is very environmentally friendly. Because you’re able to right-size your cloud use, you consume the minimum amount of needed energy to meet your storage and processing needs, allowing for a significantly reduced carbon footprint. In this case, it’s easy being green.
Resources:
- https://www.dedicatedcomputing.com/oem/systems/data-storage/
- https://www.ibm.com/cloud/learn/benefits-of-cloud-computing
- https://www.salesforce.com/uk/blog/2015/11/why-move-to-the-cloud-10-benefits-of-cloud-computing.html
- https://www.skyhighnetworks.com/cloud-security-blog/11-advantages-of-cloud-computing-and-how-your-business-can-benefit-from-them/
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