What is Cloud Computing?

In partnership with Cisco and Microsoft, Dimension Data is introducing a new strategy for hybrid-cloud migration that fully addresses the challenges modern organizations face.

Instead of storing and maintaining your data in a physical server or data center on your premises, you can access your data and technology services as you need them from a cloud provider.

Cloud computing goes beyond simply storing data. It also includes the delivery of computing services like databases, networking, software, analytics and intelligence. In fact, it allows you to run software and platforms through the cloud, so that you don’t have to install and maintain them on your physical hard drives.

Cloud computing has been around for more than two decades and has become the norm for any innovative organization that wants to maintain a competitive edge. According to a report from Dell Computers, companies that invest in big data, cloud, mobility and security record up to 53% faster revenue growth than their competitors.

What are the advantages of cloud computing?

Cost savings: Instead of paying for capital expenses, including data centers and physical servers, you only pay for information technology (IT) as you consume it. Operating costs are lower as you don’t have to pay to manage and maintain your IT systems. There’s no need to upgrade your systems regularly. You won’t need to manage an expert team to handle the IT, and even your energy costs may be lower.

Scalability: You can quickly scale your operation and storage needs to suit your day-to-day requirements. In the past, you would have had to buy and install expensive upgrades on site, whereas now your cloud service provider will handle this for you. You can also scale down if needs be.

Fast innovation: The cloud connects you to a range of technologies so that you can innovate faster. From infrastructure services, including storage and databases, to other exciting new technologies like machine learning, data lakes and analytics, the cloud gives you instant access to so much more. Using cloud computing, you can deploy technology services in a matter of minutes, giving your organization a strategic edge.

Flexible working practices: Cloud computing allows employees to be more flexible. As working from home becomes the norm for many employees, the ability to access data from anywhere is critical. With a cloud solution in place, employees can access data from home, while on holiday, from different work sites, while visiting clients or on their commutes.

Easier collaboration: Communicating with co-workers and sharing data and information is much easier in a cloud environment. Employees working from different locations around the world can work together seamlessly on a project.

Loss prevention and disaster recovery: If all your data is stored locally on local servers or hard drives, your valuable data is at risk. Computers and servers can malfunction or break, or be stolen. Storing data in the cloud keeps it safe and easily accessible from any computer with an internet connection. Disaster recovery is also faster.

How does cloud computing work?

Cloud storage works by enabling your employees to access and download data, platforms and software on any chosen device (laptops, tablets or smartphones) at any time, as long as they have an internet connection and access to the cloud network.

There are three types of cloud deployment: public, private and hybrid:

Public cloud: A public cloud is managed by a third-party provider who is fully responsible for the management and maintenance of the cloud platform. Typically, a public cloud has massive amounts of available space, so you can easily scale your usage. The public cloud also offers great versatility and is generally the most cost-effective option.

Private cloud: Private clouds consist of a dedicated infrastructure that is not shared with anyone else. If an organization has tight regulatory requirements about how data is stored and used, they may invest in a fully on-premises cloud solution. Only authorized users will be able to access, use and store data in the private cloud from anywhere. A private cloud offers security and control, but the private infrastructure will be more costly.

Hybrid cloud: Hybrid clouds combine public clouds with private clouds. The two platforms interface seamlessly, with data and applications flowing securely from one to the other. This solution is best for an organization that needs both improved security and greater flexibility.

If you’re considering cloud services for your organization, we have the expertise to migrate, operate and optimize your cloud environment. Contact us today for a free cloud assessment.