When you hear the word cloud, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?
Probably not computers and servers.
There's something about the word cloud that makes people feel good and safe.
It's like a big, fluffy pillow in the sky where you can store your confidential data securely. And who doesn't love a big, fluffy pillow?
Welcome to the wonderful world of cloud storage!
Cloud storage is a great way to keep your files safe and sound and save space on your computer. It has also helped companies worldwide become more efficient. By utilising a managed cloud service provider, businesses can streamline their workflow and ensure that valuable information is protected from potential threats.
In this article, we'll discuss everything you need to know about cloud storage, all the delightful things that come with it, and how you can get started using it.
What is Cloud Storage?
Cloud storage is a data storage model in which digital data is stored in logical pools, which are called the cloud. People and companies buy or lease storage capacity from providers to store data.
The physical storage spans multiple servers (sometimes in various locations) and is owned and managed by a cloud service provider.
So, once you send data to the servers (either manually or automatically), your data is replicated and sent to multiple servers to be kept safe and secured. This process is a standard for cloud storage to prevent any data loss or downtime in case a server goes down and requires maintenance.
You can access cloud storage via the internet, typically through a web-based platform like Microsoft SharePoint. Of course, you will need a reliable internet connection on top of that so you can have a smooth experience.
If you have a cloud storage provider, ensure that they’re responsible for keeping the data available and accessible and make sure the physical environment is protected and running.
How Does Cloud Storage Work?
When it comes to storing data, there are two main ways to do it: on-premises or in the cloud.
Cloud storage is a newer option that has gained popularity in recent years. But how does cloud storage work?
Short answer: Simply put, when you store data in the cloud, it gets stored on a remote server. This server is accessible by you and your authorised users from anywhere with an internet connection.
Long answer: Your cloud storage environment is operated by your cloud service provider (and maintained by your MSP), wherein your data is replicated multiple times and stored in data centres located in various parts of the world. Your service provider's responsibility is to make your data accessible to your applications anytime and anywhere. So, you don’t have to worry about storage delivery, servers, data availability, maintenance, and security anymore!
Cloud storage has a PAAS (pay-as-you-go) pricing model that only allows you to pay for the storage space you use. This model is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses with tight IT budgets.
What are the Benefits of Cloud Storage?
There are many benefits to using cloud storage compared to local data storage. And this is especially critical since you are handling confidential business data that requires top-notch security and availability.
Access files anytime & anywhere
Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it allows users to access their files anywhere, as it's stored on remote servers, not on their local devices. So this means that users can access their files from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection.
All in all, you work more efficiently with cloud storage.
With cloud storage, you can share files more conveniently by sending a link instead of bulky email attachments. So there’s no need to upload files one by one to an email attachment only for it to fail because it is too heavy.
Since the cloud has a centralised environment (as long as you have the proper login access and a reliable internet connection), you can access your files anytime and anywhere on any device you have. So if you spend most of your time working from different places aside from the office, this benefit will come in handy for you, especially if you need to collaborate with team members in real time.
Cloud storage makes work better for you. From accessibility to collaboration, you’re all set for success!
Reliable
If anything is associated with the internet, safety becomes a primary concern.
Another benefit of cloud storage is that it is much more reliable than storing files locally. Local storage devices are prone to failure, but cloud servers are much more stable. This means that files are less likely to be lost or corrupted if stored in the cloud.
Cloud storage has helped many businesses – from SMBs to large corporations – secure their confidential data.
But cloud storage reliability doesn’t only end with keeping the bad guys away from your data.
When you use cloud storage, your data is replicated across various servers. So, in the instance where one of those servers (or datacentres) breaks down, your data is still alive and accessible anytime. Only if all your Managed Service Provider’s data centres are brought down will you lose your data. But the chances of this scenario happening are very slim.
So you can rest easy at night knowing that your cloud storage provider keeps your data safe and accessible.
Hooray for cloud backups!
Cost-effective
Finally, cloud storage can be a convenient way for businesses to make the most of their budget as you only need to pay for the storage you use. And most of the time, you’d get discounts for paying for a year or more in advance.
With cloud storage services, you would be free from most data storage problems since someone else is housing your data for you. And this frees you from the burdens of maintaining a local office server and everything that goes with it.
If you’re looking for a long-term solution to your data storage woes, cloud storage is the one for you. Because not only do you have more reliable storage, but you also save more money down the road as your business grows and becomes more reliant on data.
What are the Drawbacks of Cloud Storage?
There are a few disadvantages of cloud storage to be aware of, and only by understanding these disadvantages will you create a cloud storage solution ideal for your business needs.
Requires reliable connection
First, if you lose your internet connection, you may not be able to access your files. And if your connection is slow, you will most likely encounter issues.
You can only access cloud storage with a reliable internet connection.
So always ensure you have a reliable internet connection wherever you are so you can access your files without issues.
Cyber security
Second, there is a small risk that hackers could gain access to your files. Although risks are low, always remember that they are never zero. As much as cloud storage providers secure their platform from cyber criminals, you also have a role to play in the security of your data.
There are ways to keep you and your employees aware of good security practices. And it’s through a semi-annual security awareness webinar which OSIT just so happens to do every month for free! You can sign up here.
Storage cost
Finally, you may have to pay a monthly fee to use cloud storage, with the additional cost of migrating your data to the cloud, plus maintenance and backup. And your storage costs can add up if you’re trying to keep more data than you should.
The key is to be organised with your storage and remove the data you won’t need anymore. So, your outdated Excel spreadsheet from 2015 can probably be rehomed in the recycling bin.
How Can You Get Started with Cloud Storage?
For many people, the cloud can be a bit of a mystery. It’s often spoken about in vague terms, and it can be hard to know where to start. But cloud storage is becoming increasingly popular, with more and more businesses and individuals using it to store their data. So, if you’re curious about how to get started with cloud storage, read on for some tips.
One of the first things you need to do is decide the type of cloud storage in your organisation. There are two main types: public and private. Companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft offer public cloud storage services. With private cloud storage, you host your company servers using proprietary assets.
Once you’ve decided which type of cloud storage you want to use, you need to choose a provider that understands your business and goals.
Set Up Your Cloud Storage for Success
In conclusion, cloud storage is a great way to store data and files.
It is convenient, reliable, and secure.
You can access your files from anywhere, and you don't have to worry about losing them if something happens to your computer. Cloud storage is essential for anyone who wants to keep their data safe and accessible, especially if your business heavily relies on it.
More and more users have started to use the cloud for their day-to-day personal or professional activities. And businesses of all sizes are also deciding to switch to a cloud storage service since it offers them an advantage to move forward to their goals.
Cloud storage services are becoming more common among Managed Service Providers. But the thing is, you need to find the right MSP that could support your cloud storage requirements as well as be proactive with your cloud structure.
If you’ve long been searching for that kind of MSP, hit us up on the contact form below, and we’ll get back to you as fast as we can.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cloud storage in simple terms?
Cloud storage is a modern and advanced method of data storage, where digital information is kept on servers situated in remote data centers. This storage solution is overseen by a third-party provider, which takes care of hosting, maintaining, and securing the data on its sophisticated infrastructure.
This off-site storage option provides users and organisations with the flexibility to access their data from anywhere, as long as they have an internet connection. Cloud storage is an excellent choice for individuals and organisations looking for dependable and efficient data management solutions.
Is cloud storage safe?
Storing your data in the cloud comes with benefits for organisations, and one of those is security.
Cloud storage is frequently regarded as offering superior protection against cyber threats compared to traditional storage methods, as data is regularly backed up. In the event of a data breach or loss, users can access a recent version of their data and maintain operational continuity. Additionally, cloud storage is housed off-site in a secure data centre, safeguarding it from physical damage or theft, which is a common risk with on-premise storage solutions.
Is cloud storage free?
Cloud storage costs can vary significantly based on several factors, with the most common being how much space you need.
Companies like Microsoft, Google, and Dropbox have a range of pricing options to suit different users and organisational needs. These plans are designed to be flexible and scalable, so you can find a cloud storage solution that perfectly matches your growing storage needs or budget constraints.
