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What Is the Cloud?

What is the cloud? As someone who is not a tech-savvy person, this term can mean a lot of things. However, we’re going to tell you right off the bat that this does not refer to the white fluffy things you see in the sky. The cloud means something more technical and complex. It’s a term that is often used and plays a vital role in today’s tech industry. If you’re wondering what does the cloud really mean, then stay where you are and dare not to leave. Today, we’ll provide answers to the question “What is the cloud?”

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Exploring the Cloud  

What is the cloud? If you’re working in the tech industry, more often than not, you hear companies say that their data is stored in the cloud. This can be confusing as the industry itself likes to use words that have nothing to do with the actual products. The cloud refers to the process of storing data and information over the internet. Simply put, it helps you store and access data without the need for your computer’s hard drive.

The term “cloud” was used as back in the days, it symbolized the diagram that was used to represent the structure of the internet. If you’ll think about it, the internet looks like a virtual cloud that connects all users from all over the world, sharing and accessing information over an array of networks. So, if you’re going to use this visual representation to define the cloud, it will mean that it is about sharing and accessing information over a network channel, particularly, the internet.
However, storing your data on your hard drive doesn’t have to do anything with the cloud. That practice already refers to the process of local storage and computing. This means that in order to have access to all of your important resources and data, your computer hard drive should be physically near you. For decades, this is how the tech industry operated. And although many companies are starting to use the cloud, some still argue that the traditional way of storing data is still far superior.

Types of Cloud Computing Services

Cloud computing is separated into three categories: infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and software as a service (SaaS). We’ll take a look at some of the major differences that make each cloud computing service unique and in a class by itself:

Infrastructure as a Service – Infrastructure as a service or IaaS offers virtual server storage and API to allow its users to drive workloads to a VM. With this, they’ll be able to have enough storage space in their systems and can manage and manipulate the VM’s storage as required. Those who provide IaaS typically offer instances in all sizes, whether they be small, medium, large, or extra-large. Moreover, they also customize and personalize instances depending on the workload needs.

Platform as a Service – Platform as a service or PaaS is generally used for software development. Its providers allow their users to access host development tools stored in their infrastructures using the help of an internet connection. However, it is important to note that these tools should also be supported by web portals, gateway software, and APIs.

Software as a Service – Software as a service or SaaS generally distributes software applications over an internet connection. These software applications are often referred to as web services. With these, users can manage their applications and services from anywhere using internet-enabled devices such as computers, tablets, and smartphones. One of the most commonly known SaaS providers is Microsoft Office 365 which offers email and productivity services.

Benefits of Cloud Computing Services

The cloud can provide your business with a number of benefits and advantages. Sadly, some business owners are still yet to realize the wonders of committing to cloud computing solutions. If you’re one of the few people who are still sceptical to use the cloud for data storage and access, check out some of the benefits it can provide your organization with.

Cost-Effective – Investing in cloud computing services can help you reduce the costs of maintaining your in-house IT system. Instead of spending a dime on expensive software and equipment, you can just simply outsource that role to the real cloud computing experts. Moreover, you can also save big on system upgrades as the providers will be the one responsible for managing and maintaining the necessary software and technologies.

Security – Investing in cloud computing services can help you secure your system from unwanted attacks and threats. As a business owner, you don’t want to risk the security of your organization by letting your team manage your files and data especially if they do not have the right expertise and set of skills. With that said, let the real experts in the field of cloud computing assume that role for you. At the end of the day, no business can achieve success without a secure and stable IT infrastructure.

Productivity – Let’s face it. Managing your data to the cloud requires time, patience, and effort. Unfortunately, not everyone has the right resources to do such an activity. By investing in cloud computing services, you can skip past the hassle of managing and maintaining your data using the cloud. This will help you focus more on the things that you do best, including running your primary business. Moreover, this will allow you to devote your time on the things that can ultimately affect the bottom line of your organization. In the end, it helps you achieve long-term goals and success.

Accessibility – One of the main benefits of cloud computing is increased mobility. By investing in cloud computing services, your staff can have access to important office resources from anywhere at any time. Those who can’t come to the office can still complete their daily work routines using their internet-enabled devices. However, it is worth pointing out that cloud computing services do not only benefit your employees and staff. Looking at the bigger picture, it also helps with your business productivity and efficiency.

Conclusion

The cloud has definitely revolutionized the tech industry. With this, businesses are able to keep up with today’s fast-paced environment by having increased mobility and accessibility. However, security should also be a top concern for those who want to start using the cloud for data storage and management. That’s why investing in cloud computing services should always be a matter of consideration for business owners and the like.

thinkIT Solutions can offer you the best cloud computing services in the New Orleans area. By investing in our cloud solutions, you can maximize the full potential of your business and build a strong and secure foundation for your in-house IT structure. Speak with our team of professionals now to know more about our products and cloud computing services. Just dial +1 (504) 380-9872 or follow us at our LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages.