Cloud computing is now a fundamental part of all modern businesses. But before we dive into why it’s here to stay, let’s recap on what exactly cloud computing is.
What is cloud computing?
The term cloud computing was first coined in 2006 by Google CEO Eric Schmidt. Since then its popularity has grown significantly, and it is now fundamental to the way businesses across the globe store, access, and use their data.
Put simply, cloud computing refers to the delivery of computing services, servers, storage, networks, software and more, via the internet. Before cloud computing, businesses had to rely on physical data centres and servers that they were responsible for buying and maintaining (if you’re not currently taking advantage of cloud computing, this is you).
Generally, physical servers are more expensive and make data storage and retrieval more complex, which is why cloud computing has grown in popularity so quickly.
Cloud computing is often misinterpreted as merely cloud storage. In reality it encompasses almost all of a company’s IT requirements, including business applications, security systems, and system infrastructure. Most of us are already familiar with cloud services like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, programs that let us not only store data but use it in a way that aids collaboration and efficiency.
Misconceptions about cloud computing
Despite its obvious benefits, there are several misconceptions about the effectiveness of cloud computing, namely, that it’s more expensive and not as secure as traditional methods.
Misconception 1: Affordability
In terms of cost, this speculation is unfounded. Whilst companies previously had to buy physical servers and pay for them to be maintained, businesses taking advantage of cloud computing only pay an affordable fixed monthly rate while their IT partner manages functionality and security. In fact, cost-efficiency is undoubtedly one of the most significant benefits of cloud technology.
In fact, 74% of businesses say moving to the cloud reduced their infrastructure costs (Cloud HyperMarket), cost-efficiency is undoubtedly one of the biggest benefits of cloud technology.
Misconception 2: Security
All data stored in the cloud is encrypted, adding an extra layer of security, and most cloud providers have built-in security and threat-detection software.
Why cloud computing is here to stay
Despite some speculation, businesses keep adopting cloud computing thanks to the overwhelming number of benefits and proven success across organisations of all sizes. Here are the main reasons it’s here to stay:
Seven reasons it sticks
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Easier, more efficient collaboration
Most cloud solutions let multiple people edit the same document, spreadsheet or presentation at once, no conflicting versions, no confusion. Teams see each other’s progress and comment in place.
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Pivotal for remote working
With data stored and accessed in the cloud, employees only need a device, login, a stable connection and the right permissions, the backbone of remote work. Businesses already on the cloud carried on as normal through lockdown while others struggled.
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Cost-efficiency
Pay an affordable fixed monthly rate for only the services you need, no buying, maintaining or replacing expensive servers and hardware. Upgrades are usually handled by your IT partner with no nasty surprises.
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Reduced risk of data loss
Less reliance on physical devices. If a flood destroyed your office laptops or server, the data would still be safely available in the cloud, staff just pick up replacement devices and carry on.
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An extra layer of security
Cloud computing encrypts all data so unauthorised users can’t access it, and many providers build in measures that detect and manage threats like ransomware or corrupted files.
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Easy to scale
Just as effective for 5 employees as for 500, and it scales with you. Grow without installing new physical systems; your cloud setup simply adapts to more people and data.
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Less stress for you
Your IT partner monitors and maintains everything. At Sereno we proactively watch your systems to catch and fix IT issues before they disrupt your business, and keep everything up to date.
Is cloud computing suitable for my business?
So now you’ve heard about all the benefits, you might be asking: will this work for my business?
Cloud computing is just as effective and cost-efficient for a business with 5 employees as it is for a business with 500.
In short, the answer is yes. Cloud technology suits businesses of all sizes and is fully flexible, use it for as little or as much as you want, and only ever pay for exactly what you need. That same flexibility makes it easy to scale, helping you prepare for growth whenever it comes.
If you’re interested in joining millions of other businesses taking advantage of cloud computing, we can help. Contact us today to find out exactly how cloud computing can help your business boost efficiency and security while cutting costs.
From Sereno IT
The Sereno IT team
Sereno IT is a London-based managed IT support provider helping businesses across the UK stay secure and productive. Read more in the Cloud & Infrastructure section.
