Cloud computing has now been around for quite some time and you might not know it, but when you use Twitter, Facebook, Gmail, Hotmail or Skype, you’re actually using the Cloud.
Before we look at how the cloud is used in everyday life, here are some pointers to know whether you are on the cloud or not:
- You have internet access. No matter where on the planet you are, if you’re using a smart device such as a smart phone, tablet or laptop on the internet then you have connected to the cloud.
- Automatic software updates. Security patches, new versions, anti-virus and anti-spam are automatically managed and kept current.
- No loss of data or back up issues. Stored in multiple locations, data is backed up every two hours. Usually data such as photos is stored on your computer. If you experience a crash then you can no longer access them. When they are stored on the cloud through systems such as Picasa or Flickr then they will still be accessible as they are backed up in multiple locations.
Cloud computing is reliable and it’s what is used by large companies. It keeps data accessible from anywhere in the world at all times. Even companies like Microsoft have made their productivity software such as Microsoft Office available on the cloud. This means that users will have access to the most recent versions and they can use them from any device at any time.
Businesses use the cloud to cut costs and enjoy greater flexibility. It’s possible to optimise resource utilisation and it’s easy to use, even for non-technical people.
Here’s ways that you may want to use it for your business:
1. Backup Data.
Suffering a disaster can leave a business with no access to data. It’s something that can worry anybody who is in the position of being responsible for it. With the Cloud, it can be backed up offsite automatically, whilst you work without you even noticing.
2. Mobile Working
One of the biggest advantages of using the cloud is that you can have access to your ‘office’ from anywhere. You can sync your data and access your system from anywhere that you have internet access. You don’t even need a virtual private network (VPN) to do so.
3. Information Sharing
If your team is located in one physical space or they are spread around the globe, the cloud makes it possible to share data with ease. Sharing a file can be just as simple as sending a link. No more large files to email.
4. File Storage
Many businesses need to provide marketing materials to a variety of people in the form of videos, documents, images and audio. Some of these files can be large in size and take up significant hard drive space. The cloud offers storage space that is outside of your local system, therefore making it possible to share your files easily with others.
5. Growth planning
It’s easy to change the amount of space you have access to. If your business grows, then you know that you can allocate more space on the cloud for your files. You will only need to pay for what you use and therefore keep the cash flow running.
6. Upgrades and deployment.
You can also have your IT managed from offsite support teams, therefore keeping overheads low.
The cloud offers a lot to businesses who want to optimise their resources and lower costs. To find out more contact us on +44 3333 1111 33 for a no obligation chat.
