Ever found yourself wondering what the cloud actually is and how it works? Well, this is the post for you! In this short blog we’re going to outline what the cloud is and how it works, as well as run through the benefits of using the cloud for small businesses..
What is the Cloud?
The cloud refers to servers which are found in data centres, and accessed over the internet, rather than existing physically within your building. It is a collection of networked computer hardware that you can’t physically touch but can control remotely via the web.
Much like a traditional server, in the cloud you can store your data, backups, and even software. Because it only requires an internet connection, you can access this from anywhere in the world, at any time of the day with ease.
The Cloud is widely regarded as the future of IT and is used by over 85% of enterprises for storing sensitive data according to research conducted by SysGroup.
How does the cloud work?
To keep this explanation simple, we’ll divide it into two halves; the front end and the back end.
The front end is what we, the user sees (our computer and the application used to access the cloud) and the back end is the cloud, made up of hardware located in a data centre. These are connected through a network; the internet.
Essentially, the back end does all of the heavy lifting running the applications, and the front end just needs to run the cloud system’s interface, for example a web browser.
Software and storage then, isn’t on your personal computer, rather it’s located in the data centers and is accessible from any computer or device. This is what makes it such a flexible option.
The data centres are huge buildings and provide the security, storage capacity and computing power needed to maintain all of the information users send to the cloud.
Is my business’ data secure when using a cloud solution?
Yes! When set up correctly – with a high standard of data security – your data has the same encryption and management as a traditional server. Your data is encrypted to and from the cloud and is saved in a way that renders it useless to hackers. This makes cloud solutions a reliable option for business owners.
What are the benefits of using The Cloud?
- Access your data from any device, anywhere. Ideal for companies that have multiple branches, encourage remote working or are often working on the move, the cloud allows users to access their data from anywhere. Whilst this is technically possible with a traditional server, it requires a far more technical set-up and typically is much less reliable.
- Files are backed up online. Should anything happen to your premises, say a fire or a flood, know that all of your data is safely backed up, miles away from the emergency and ready to use when you need it. Simply log into a device and your business’ data and software is there and ready for you to use, regardless of what has happened at your building.
- Fully scalable option allowing room for growth. Unlike using a physical solution within your building, using the cloud means your options are fully scalable. Should your business expand rapidly, the cloud allows you the flexibility to scale at any given time. By the same token, should a business decrease in size, they aren’t then stuck paying for something they don’t need. This is because many cloud solutions are very flexible and operate on a pay as you go basis.
Here at Yo Technology we firmly believe that the future is in the cloud. When used and managed securely, it provides a whole host of benefits unobtainable by other solutions in this modern age.
Interested in finding out more about what the cloud can do for your business? Get in touch and we’ll talk you through your options as well as set you up with a free no-obligation IT Audit. Just drop your details in the form below and a member of the team will get in contact with you!
