What is this Cloud thing everyone is talking about?
It is the fashionable term in computing at the moment. “Cloud Storage”, “Cloud based Software”. Many major software houses are “Moving their services to the Cloud”. Do you really know what it means and is it something you should be using? These simple tips aim to try and explain in everyday language what all this is about.
In the beginning…
In the business environment most people are now used to the familiar Server and Computer type of environment. Your Server holds your files and may run your software. The most common service your Server may run is Microsoft Exchange – Your email. At home you may use a USB stick to backup your files.
This type of environment is quite robust and totally under your control (Well as much as computers can ever be under control). There are of course costs associated with keeping your server and network devices up to date and working. Not forgetting the start up costs, you have to buy the hardware in the first place.
The Cloud is the Internet!
Yes, it is that simple. When people talk about the cloud, they mean the internet.
There are two main types of Cloud Computing “Services” and “Data Storage”
To put it simply “Services” are things like software. You can no longer go to a shop and buy a box with Adobe Photoshop. Adobe have moved their “Services” to the cloud. You pay a monthly subscription and in return they allow you to use their software. You stop paying, the software stops working.
Yes you have used the cloud, you just might not realise it.
If you have ever signed into a webpage to view your emails then you have used the cloud. If you use Instagram or Facebook that you are using the cloud.
When you take a photograph on your phone the image is stored on your phone. If you then upload that photograph to Instagram or Facebook then it is stored in the cloud.
You are effectively using someone else’s server. Instead of having a server sitting in that corner of your office, or a USB stick to save your files too you are using your “Service” providers hardware. The big difference is the only way you can get to that server or storage area is through the internet.
Why it’s a good thing
The Cloud offers cost savings as you don’t need to buy expensive hardware to store your files and run your applications. You can access any files you have saved in the cloud from any device which is connected to the internet. You don’t need to be in the office or have access to your own computer.
Why you need to be careful
If you don’t have a fast internet connection, or you loose internet connection then you also loose access to your files and services. There is an increased risk to security and privacy. If your files are sitting on a USB stick in the bottom of your kitchen drawer there is zero chance of anyone accessing them over the internet and stealing your files. If you use the cloud make sure you also use strong and long passwords.
All in the name of progress…
Computing is an ever changing technology and trying to keep up with everything can be confusing and expensive. We have found that a mixture of Cloud and physical or local solutions is the best way forward for many small businesses. Give us a call to find out how you can use the cloud to your advantage while retaining control over your own destiny.