If an IT consultant told you that backing up data is one of the most important things for your technical team to do well, you’d probably nod in agreement. But what if they suggested that your dirty data requires cleaning prior to utilization? One simple adjective like “dirty” may give you pause, and there’s a handful of other terms about “data” that you may not recognize either. (more…)
If you are a small business considering switching your storage and systems to cloud computing, you may be wondering if it’s the right decision for you. There are several benefits to cloud computing, including reduced costs, increased accessibility, and improved flexibility. However, many small businesses also worry about the security risks associated with cloud computing.
In the article below, we discuss how small businesses may benefit from cloud computing, as well as the security risks and how to handle them.
In most cases, cloud computing is a good option for small businesses. This is because it offers robust systems and applications that may not otherwise be affordable to the small company—and usually at a decreased cost. In addition, cloud computing can help small businesses with remote workers or multiple locations collaborate more effectively in real-time on projects. Finally, cloud computing is a more scalable, flexible option for fast-growing companies.
Below are some of the main reasons small businesses prefer cloud computing:
In most cases, cloud computing is more affordable for small businesses is less expensive than keeping storage and systems in-house. This is because on-site solutions require not only expensive servers but also a cooled and dust-free space in which to house them and someone to oversee maintenance and management.
One of the main benefits for small businesses choosing cloud computing over traditional computing is the scalability of the systems. In most cases, the company can select a system and service level that can support its current stage of growth while being scalable for future expansion. This flexibility means costs are managed through transitional periods while preventing the need for systems changes in the future.
The transition to the cloud has opened up the ability to access applications that small businesses otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford. This includes things like business intelligence systems, team collaboration platforms, supply chain management, and more.
Another reason small businesses like switching to cloud computing is because it increases accessibility and collaboration outside the main office. This means on-the-go employees, remote workers, or team members who frequently travel can still access real-time information. This means more accurate reporting and better team collaboration on the go.
A final reason cloud computing is good for small businesses is the integration capabilities. Integration of your systems can help streamline processes within your company, from operations to sales and marketing to finances.
Cloud systems have an enhanced ability to integrate with other systems compared to in-house solutions. This improves your business intelligence by making it easier to aggregate data and helps improve productivity and minimize errors by reducing double-entry and offering more automation.
Even if you’re sold on the idea of cloud computing being good for small businesses, you may wonder if it’s safe. In reality, hosting systems in the cloud does have increased security risks compared to hosting the same systems in-house. This is because there are more points of access for potential hackers as well as increased motivation as a cloud service is usually a larger target for threats.
However, many cloud systems have advanced security measures to prevent breaches from taking place—and may likely even have better security than a small business would be able to have on their own. In order to ensure cloud computing is safe for your small business, be sure to follow these tips:
Not all cloud computing services are created equal. Ask your IT advisor to provide security insight for a cloud service before making a decision.
Increased accessibility is great—as long as this access is controlled and monitored. Make sure to have protocols in place for onboarding new team members as well as for handling changes in roles or employment.
Train your employees in cybersecurity best practices. This includes teaching employees to avoid phishing scams, protecting devices when on the road, and managing privacy and password settings.
The easiest way for cybersecurity threats to access cloud systems is through unsuspecting users. One of your biggest security risks as a small business using cloud computing is an unsecured password. Always use difficult-to-crack passwords, use different passwords for different devices, and change your passwords frequently.
Are you still not sure whether cloud computing is right for your business? Give us a call! Our IT experts are happy to discuss your options and whether cloud computing may be the right fit for you.
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Server virtualization is hardly a new technology. The practice became popular half a century ago with companies such as IBM and GE as the rapid evolution of applications began requiring time-sharing computers. From this technology, virtualization was quickly born.
Server virtualization is the process of restructuring a single server into multiple small, isolated virtual servers. This process does not require new or additional servers; instead, virtualization software or hardware takes the existing server and partitions it into several isolated virtual servers. Each of these servers is capable of running independently.
Servers are the technology that hosts files and applications, providing functionality for other programs. This device processes requests and delivers data to other computers in a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN). Servers are often very powerful, processing complex tasks with ease.
A single server can only use one operating system (OS) and is usually dedicated to a single application or task. This is because most applications do not function effectively together on a single server. Because of this, much of a server’s processing capabilities go unused. However, when a server is virtualized it is transformed into multiple virtual servers which can each run different operating systems and applications in an isolated environment. This means less wasted processing power.
Servers take up space and require maintenance, as well as needing to be housed in an environment that is cool and dust-free. Between hardware costs, maintenance costs, and cooling costs, this can often become a significant cost to organizations.
In most cases, server virtualization is the best way to manage a data center’s server needs.
Server virtualization is important because it is significantly more efficient than using individual servers for each application or task. Not only does server virtualization reduce the number of physical servers needed, but it also simplifies the management of those servers, reduces costs associated with housing and maintaining servers, and results in significantly less wasted resources.
Server virtualization minimizes costs by increasing the utilization of existing resources. This cuts down on the number of physical servers needed, minimizes management costs for those servers, as well as reducing the energy requirements needed to run the servers and provide cooling for the servers.
Because most new applications require a new server, having a one-server-per-application setup usually means purchasing and installing a new physical server. This can be time-consuming, often taking weeks. However, with virtual servers, server provisioning and deployment is simple and fast as it requires no new server or installation.
Virtualizing servers is inherently “green.” Not only do servers require energy to power them, but they also require energy for cooling. Because server virtualization significantly reduces the number of servers needed, this results in decreased energy costs.
Server virtualization makes it easier to implement an effective disaster recovery plan. This is because you have the capability to move data or applications quickly from one server to another. A single server can host a large number of virtual machines (VMs). Because of this, it can be simple and effective to create a replication site. Most virtualization software also allows you to test disaster recovery failovers—a protocol that is almost impossible with a large number of physical servers.
Is your company interested in learning more about server virtualization? Reach out to a Network Coverage expert today to discuss how virtualization can increase productivity and reduce technology costs in your company.