6 Tips for Creating a Really Secure Password
While cloud computing might sound like just another modern craze, in reality, much of this basic technology has been around for years. But you might be wondering, what exactly is it, is it worth the investment and can it help my business?
Cloud computing is simply a way of using the internet in order to carry out tasks you usually perform on your computer – like storing and sharing information – instead of your computer’s hard drive.
So instead of buying software and having it installed, the applications are hosted on servers that you access all over the internet – or should we say ‘in the cloud.’ As long as you have an internet connection, cloud computing can be done anytime, anywhere.
Using cloud computing
Generally, businesses pay a cloud provider – like Microsoft or Google – a monthly fee based on the services or software they want to use. Commonly used applications include accounting software, email and customer relationship management software. What’s more, the technology allows businesses to store files on a secure internet
hosted server.
Cloud computing gives your business access to low cost, flexible IT resources and you don’t need to make big upfront investments buying and maintaining costly hardware. Rather you can choose exactly the right size and fit for your computing resources that you need to operate your IT department effectively – meaning you only pay for what you actually use.
Cloud services
While there are many different cloud computing services to choose from, here are some of the most popular:
• Office 365 – the cloud version of Microsoft Office
• Dropbox – allows you to easily share and back up files
• QuickBooks Online – brings you cloud accounting software
• Salesforce – cloud customer relationship management (CRM)
Cloud computing drawbacks
It’s worth bearing in mind that cloud computing requires internet access which in certain situations or locations may at times make it impossible to work. For instance, if your internet connection isn’t working, you might not be able to get access to important data. This being the case, it’s a good idea to use a reputable provider and make sure you check their service agreements before signing! Make sure they’ve got the capability to handle your business needs and always check their security standards.
When it comes to improving how your business operates their IT, make sure you understand completely what improvements you want the cloud to bring to your company. Consider cloud computing against other all other options and list the pros and cons of each. Remember, moving to the cloud just because everyone else is doing it, isn’t really a good enough reason to do so.
If you need help deciding whether your business could benefit from cloud computing or not, why not let Advance Computer Systems help? For more information about the cloud click here or contact us today on 01904 653789.
Related posts
