There are a few key benefits to using cloud computing. These include reducing IT costs, improving innovation and supporting remote work.
The cloud shifts IT costs from capital expenses to operational expenses (Opex). This means that businesses can get started on projects faster and avoid the expense of buying hardware and software outright.
Cost
Cloud vendors offer a variety of higher-level services that encapsulate core back-office functions such as identity management, virtual networking, monitoring and configuration management. This can remove a burden from IT teams, but also increase the risk of security breaches and data leaks.
Another consideration is that cloud computing requires a reliable internet connection. If this is interrupted, businesses could experience downtime. It is important to consider this when deciding on which cloud providers to use.
Companies should also take into account the cost of data transfer charges when choosing a cloud service provider. These costs can quickly add up if businesses require regular file transfers. However, most cloud providers offer discounted rates for large files. This can make cloud storage an attractive option for businesses.
Scalability
The scalability of cloud computing gives companies the ability to use technology that would otherwise be out of reach or unaffordable, and scale it up quickly when the company’s demand spikes. This can help IT teams lower their capital expenses by shifting the costs to operational expenditures instead.
It also lets the company avoid the cost and hassle of procuring and installing software and hardware. It provides on-demand access to applications, server infrastructure (physical and virtual), data storage, development tools and networking capabilities hosted in remote data centers managed by the CSP.
Employees can access these services through a secure Internet connection, no matter where they are. That flexibility is a huge benefit for businesses that have employees spread out geographically and working remotely during the pandemic.
Flexibility
With cloud computing, companies get on-demand access to infrastructure—applications, servers (physical and virtual), data storage, development tools and networking capabilities—hosted by a service provider at a remote data center. They pay a monthly subscription fee or are charged based on usage.
This lowers IT ops costs and allows IT teams to devote more time on projects that directly support business goals. The cloud also accelerates innovation, providing easier and faster access to newer technology such as artificial intelligence applications, machine learning and large-scale data analytics.
However, there are some risks associated with the flexibility of the cloud, including restricted or limited flexibility for applications and developments and a lack of control over infrastructure. Platform differences or vendor lock-in can also make it difficult to switch services.
Security
In the past, companies required physical servers to store their data, but now cloud services can be accessed from anywhere with a secure internet connection. It means IT teams no longer need to worry about installing and updating hardware, software and security.
Many experts believe cloud computing provides more secure systems than in-house solutions, assuming a trusted provider is selected. However, cloud services are vulnerable to attacks and breaches as well as external factors such as natural disasters or internal system failures.
Some businesses have also cited migration costs and limited flexibility as a concern. IT teams may need to learn or hire new skills to adapt to a different way of working, and they could face limitations in flexibility and control over certain cloud resources.
Privacy
Unlike traditional information management systems that require companies to construct and maintain costly server centers and IT departments, cloud technology allows small businesses to swap these expensive hardware investments for fast internet connections. This frees up capital that can be better invested into growth and expansion.
In addition to its cost-saving potential, cloud computing also promotes operational efficiency by allowing employees to collaborate from any location in the world without having to travel or stay late at the office. This eliminates geographic constraints, making it easier for teams to make decisions and get products out into the market faster.
However, there are some concerns around privacy and security when it comes to cloud computing. Companies need to consider the amount of control they want to give to their service providers.
