Cloud computing has evolved like never before, with companies of all shapes and sizes adapting to this new technology. Industry experts believe that this trend will only continue to grow and develop further in the coming years. While cloud computing is undoubtedly beneficial for medium to large companies, it is not without its disadvantages, especially for smaller businesses.
Advantages of Cloud Computing
If used properly and to the extent necessary, working with data in the cloud can vastly benefit all types of businesses. Noted below are some of the advantages of this technology.
Cost Efficient
Cloud computing is probably the most cost-efficient method to use, maintain and upgrade. Traditional desktop software costs companies a lot in terms of finance. Adding up the licensing fees for multiple users can prove to be very expensive for the entity concerned. The cloud, on the other hand, is available at more affordable costs and therefore, can significantly lower the company’s IT expenses. Additionally, there are many one-time-payment, pay-as-you-go and other scalable options available, which makes it very reasonable for the company in question.
Almost Unlimited Storage
Storing information in the cloud gives you almost unlimited storage capacity. Hence, you no longer need to be concerned about running out of storage space or increasing your current storage space availability.
Backup and Recovery
Since all your data is stored in the cloud, backing it up and restoring the same is relatively easier than storing the same on a physical device. Furthermore, most cloud service providers are usually competent enough to handle the recovery of information. This makes the entire process of backup and recovery much simpler than other traditional methods of data storage.
Automatic Software Integration
In the cloud, software integration is usually something that occurs automatically. This means that you do not need to take additional steps to customise and integrate your applications as per your preferences. This aspect usually takes care of itself. As such, cloud computing allows you to customise your options relatively easily. Hence, you can select only those services and software applications that you think will best suit your particular requirements.
Easy Access to Information
Once you register yourself in the cloud, you can access the information from anywhere, where there is an Internet connection. This convenient feature lets you move beyond time zone and geographic location issues.
Quick Deployment
Lastly and most importantly, cloud computing gives you the advantage of quick deployment. Once you opt for this method of functioning, your entire system can be fully operational in a matter of a few minutes. Of course, the amount of time taken here will depend on the exact kind of technology that you need for your business.
Disadvantages of Cloud Computing
In spite of its many benefits, cloud computing also has its disadvantages. Businesses, especially smaller ones, need to be aware of these before adopting this technology.=
Technical Issues
Though it is true that information and data on the cloud can be accessed anytime and from anywhere, there are times when this system can have some serious dysfunction. You should be aware of the fact that this technology is always prone to outages and other technical issues. Even the best cloud service providers run into this kind of trouble, in spite of keeping up high standards of maintenance. First and foremost, you will need a very good Internet connection to be logged onto the server at all times. You will invariably be stuck in case of network and connectivity problems.
Security in the Cloud
The other major issue while in the cloud is that of security issues. Before adopting this technology, you should know that you will be surrendering all your company’s sensitive information to a third-party cloud service provider. This could potentially put your company at great risk. Hence, you need to make absolutely sure that you choose the most reliable service provider, who will keep your information totally secure.
Prone to Attack
Storing information in the cloud could make your company vulnerable to external security attacks and threats. As you are well aware, nothing on the Internet is completely secure and therefore, there is always the possibility of the loss of sensitive data.
The Bottom Line
Like everything else, cloud computing has its pros and cons. While the technology can prove to be a great asset to your company, it could also cause harm if not understood and used correctly.