Cloud computing has grown in prominence over the last couple of years and is being promoted as the key to the future of Information Technology. But what actually is cloud computing and how can it benefit small businesses. Cloud computing is a generic umbrella term for several trends that is focused on the internet and how it can help to simplify our use of for computers whilst also improving their capabilities from a business point perspective. As an internet facility, cloud computing provides a platform for users to gain access to shared computer applications, store facilities and other computer based resources all facilitated through a network of remote servers. The more information and resources that are made accessible through cloud computing, the less reliance there is on individual employees having to install software and programmes on their personal computers.
This basically helps the business to run itself with less reliance on site servers and personal computers. For all types of businesses, cloud computing is providing the perfect infrastructure for managing the access and storage of data. Cloud computing allows employees to store and process information data in just the same way as they would through any other computer system or programme. However rather than having to purchase, install and manage applications and programmes on individual computers and imagine large corporations with lots of individual computers, Cloud computing provides a central location i.e. the internet where all data and files are then accessed through an internet browser. All information data, applications and processes can be accessed and completed from any location and through an device such as personal computers, ipads etc.
Benefits of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is a rented service that is managed by the host vendors. For large corporations with 1000’s of computers and mass applications and data storage required, the management and technical side is all overseen by the provider. There are many benefits of cloud computing that include the following;
Cost
Cloud computing provides the ability to source IT services on demand. Rather than investing and committing to purchasing new applications and software licences for all personal computers, the infrastructure is already provided by the host vendor. Small businesses simply access and consume the IT services rather than owning them saving £1000’s of pounds in the long term.
Security
Cloud computing host vendors spend huge sums of money investing in IT security ensuring that their IT infrastructure is secure and customer’s data is safe. Data can easily be lost or stolen on personal computers. Cloud computing provides extra security ensuring that data is stored in the cloud and not on your operating device.
Easier Software upgrades and IT maintenance
As the host vendor is responsible for all software, server and IT network management, Upgrades and maintenance issues are taken care of by the cloud computing vendor. All software updates, upgrades and new solutions will be made by the vendor and then made available to customers ensuring continuity of service and no expense when it comes to dealing with new applications, software upgrades or general maintenance issues. Companies will also have the latest tools and applications with no extra cost.
Flexibility
The flexibility that cloud computing offers is excellent. Employees are able to work from any location and access data, tools and applications from various IT devices such as Personal computers, Laptops, Ipads and Phones. Cloud computing also offers continuity of services no matter what unexpected events may occur such as natural disasters. Because employees can work from any location, files and data will always be accessible via the cloud no matter where they are working from
Author Bio
The following article was brought to you by John Harkin from Company Formations 247. John is a regular contributor on the company formation blog providing great advice and guidance for existing and new businesses.
