Cloud computing has become a fundamental component of IT infrastructure, permanently changing how businesses operate and deliver services. Regardless of your size or industry, chances are that your company is already using the cloud in some form. But without the correct knowledge, you will not be able to leverage these services to their full potential.
What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing, put simply, is the delivery of computing resources over the internet, including servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, or intelligence. This allows you to rent access to these resources from a cloud service provider, rather than needing your own infrastructure or data centers. Clouds can be public, private, or hybrid, and can provide value to your business in a number of ways.
Benefits of Cloud Services
There are a variety of benefits that cloud services can provide.
- Scalability and Flexibility: The cloud allows your business to easily scale IT resources up or down according to your needs, without investing in additional hardware.
- Cost Efficiency: Cloud services are far more cost-effective than the purchase and maintenance of physical servers and data centers, because you are able to pay only for what you use instead of being locked into a bigger purchase that may result in wasted resources.
- Enhanced Collaboration and Productivity: Cloud-based applications and software allow your employees to access data and work from anywhere, as long as they have an internet connection. This facilitates remote work, improves collaboration, and boosts productivity.
- Data Security and Compliance: Cloud service providers typically offer robust cybersecurity measures, including data encryption and access controls. This helps your business achieve a higher level of data security, and remain compliant with regulations.
- Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity: Cloud-based backup solutions can ensure that you are able to quickly recover data in the event of a disaster.
- Competitive Advantage: With cloud computing, your business can more readily access advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics. This helps you innovate faster and maintain a competitive edge.
Learn more: The Future is Now: Benefits of Moving Your IT Infrastructure to the Cloud
Cloud Service Models
There are three main cloud service models that exist. Each is designed for a different purpose, and provides a different level of control and flexibility.
1. Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS):
IaaS provides resources such as storage, networking capabilities, and virtual machines over the internet. This allows you to build your own IT environment without investing in hardware. It is the most customizable service model, and provides the largest degree of control – but this also makes it high-maintenance in comparison to other models. Some examples of IaaS are Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure.
2. Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS)
PaaS provides a platform that allows developers to build, test, deploy, and manage applications. It includes development tools, middleware, and database management systems. This model is tailored to developers who want to focus on coding without needing to consider server management, software updates, or security patches. Some examples are Google App Engine and Heroku.
3. Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
SaaS delivers software applications on a subscription basis. Users can access these applications through a web browser, making it easy to ensure that all staff can use them. This model is suitable for a wide range of needs, and is very low-maintenance. Some examples of SaaS include Microsoft 365 and Slack.
Choosing the Right Services
The service you will need depends on your business’ specific needs, goals, and IT strategy. Take the following factors into account, to make an informed decision:
- Your Business Requirements: What do you hope to gain from cloud computing? What are your requirements?
- Security and Compliance: Ensure that the cloud service provider offers sufficient security measures to protect your business.
- Scalability and Performance: Choose a provider that can accommodate fluctuating needs and provide the level of performance you require.
- Pricing Models: Compare the pricing of different service providers. Consider both the cost per usage and any hidden fees, such as storage costs or support fees.
- Support and Reliability: Check the service level agreement (SLA) to determine whether the service provider’s support level matches your needs.
- Test and Evaluate: Conduct trials wherever possible, to evaluate the service before you commit to it. This will help you identify any potential issues.
Managed Cloud Services to Help Grow Your Business
Cloud services have been instrumental in providing powerful computing resources, applications, and tools without the need for significant investment. By taking the time to understand the different options available, as well as your own needs, you can make informed decisions about which services best align with your goals.
Soaring Towers’ managed services help your business stay competitive, by ensuring that your cloud environment is always secure and up-to-date. We understand that you don’t want to waste valuable time worrying about your technology – so we keep it running smoothly in the background, the way it should be. Explore how our managed cloud services can help.