10. Definition
Cloud computing is using the Internet to perform tasks which would traditionally have been performed on a computer located within your office walls.
9. Cloud Solutions
Hosted e-mail, online backup and any software-as-a-service are examples of cloud computing.
8. The Benefits
By using cloud computing, your business may find reduced hardware maintenance costs, ease of sharing data and applications with remote users, and automated backup.
7. The Drawbacks
The largest drawback is that you are 100 percent reliant upon your Internet connection being available to work.
6. A Good Fit
Cloud computing may not be for every business. You need to look at how you use technology today and how you think your organization will evolve in the coming years to determine the best fit for your organization.
5. Safety First
Data stored in the cloud is as safe as any other transmission over the Internet. You should ensure that data is encrypted not only while traveling to and from your cloud solution, but also when being stored and backed up on the other end.
4. Fee Considerations
Most cloud-based solutions charge a monthly fee for application usage and data storage. There could be a trade-off for other types of fees you are paying today.
3. Local v. Cloud
You can keep some data local while moving some to the cloud. The key to using cloud computing well is to figure out which applications will provide the most value by moving them and which should be kept in-house.
2. Second Thoughts
There is a risk if you change your mind about what data should be stored in the cloud. Your migration costs could be significant and some cloud solutions require a long-term contract.
1. Privacy
Reputable providers will take steps to ensure the proper segmentation of your data. Be sure to ask this question before making a decision on a provider.