Cloud computing is an essential part of every business’ IT infrastructure. Regardless of the service model (IaaS, PaaS or SaaS) or deployment (public, private, community or hybrid), a large number of businesses are moving to the cloud to streamline their operations and minimize investment in IT resources. Though cloud computing offers a wide range of advantages, storing your data in a virtual space also poses certain security risks.
Listed below are some benefits and risks associated with cloud computing for businesses:

Benefits

• Cost Savings: Perhaps the biggest saving with cloud computing is in the form of reduced IT expenditure. You do not need to spend on expensive server storage and equipment. You also do not need to hire specialized IT staff for the maintenance and upgradation of these systems. Cloud offers a subscription based program that allows you to pay-as-you-go, i.e. businesses are charged according to their infrastructure requirements.
• Flexibility: Cloud computing allows employees to work more efficiently, irrespective of their location. They can access important files and documents from their home, during a vacation or while traveling. All they need is an internet connection and a compatible device to easily connect to their virtual office. This, in turn, helps to boost productivity while allowing you to increase profits.
• Reliability: With cloud computing, employees do not have to worry about the maintenance and security of the data. Your cloud service provider will offer round the clock technical support to implement any security upgrades required in the applications.

Risks

• Data Availability: When you centralize your data and applications to a cloud provider, one of the major risks involved is the loss of internet connectivity. If the server goes down, all your business activities will be affected. The quality of cloud services can also be hampered on a low bandwidth internet, making it difficult to download or print large files.
• Security And Privacy: Storing your business’ confidential data with an external service provider poses a lot of security risks. Make sure your data is stored in an encrypted format to prevent the hackers from getting access to it.
• Limited Control: Since the cloud services are completely outsourced, it does not provide any control to the clients. Except for the basic data and applications management, you cannot monitor or alter the backend administrative settings or functioning of the hardware/software.

For more information on cloud computing, you can contact Centex Technologies at (972) 375 – 9654.