Confused About Cloud Adoption? You’re Not Alone…

Confused About Cloud Adoption?

You’ve likely heard about the many benefits of the cloud… From anytime, anywhere access to important data and applications to greater built-in security measures to simplified management of resources, there are so many benefits to cloud adoption. But many executives still aren’t exactly clear on what the cloud is and how it works. If you’re confused about the cloud, you’re not alone. Although cloud computing is becoming more popular than ever before, it’s vital to be clear on the cloud before you jump in.

What is the Cloud?

Cisco released research stating that 94% of workloads and compute instances will be processed through cloud-based data centers rather than traditional data centers by 2021. There is no doubt that the cloud is becoming a popular choice, but what exactly is the cloud? Essentially, the cloud refers to the ability to move your hardware and software to be accessed via the Internet as opposed to on-premises.

There is a shared pool of computing resources, such as servers, storage, networks, applications, and other services, which can be provisioned with minimal effort to be leveraged on a pay-as-you-go basis. You’re able to access what you need, when you need it – without worrying about the cost of purchasing, maintaining, and supporting equipment on your own.

What Are the Service Models of Cloud Adoption?

There are three primary service models you can take advantage of when it comes to cloud adoption:

1. Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS):

This is used to access storage, servers, networking, and various other computing resources via the Internet. Your applications, data, and other personal information are yours, but the environment you run them on belongs to the cloud provider. It’s a more scalable model that lets you support heavy workloads as necessary. There are quite a few notable IaaS providers:

• Microsoft Azure
• Amazon Web Services
• Google Compute Engine
2. Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS):

This is used to develop and/or deliver applications – giving developers and professionals a cloud-based platform to build and deploy applications as needed. This is a less commonly used offering for businesses.

3. Software-as-a-Service (SaaS):

This is perhaps the most widely-used model wherein you’re able to access your software application via the Internet as opposed to purchasing and maintaining the software through the vendor. There are less management, maintenance, and support costs associated with software delivered via the Internet. Plus, it’s more accessible from any device or location.

What Are the Types of Cloud Computing Available?

Next, we have three main types of cloud computing deployment options – each of which offers unique advantages:

1. Public:

This is one of the most common deployment options wherein all of the supporting infrastructure is shared across multiple users. Typically, this is cheaper than a private or hybrid solution because the cloud provider is able to keep costs low due to the sheer volume of users. Netflix would be a great example of this.

2. Private:

This is another common deployment option wherein you are the only user of the service provided to you. The data you’re storing in your cloud-based solution is protected thoroughly with firewalls and encryption. Plus, you have the ability to customize the service to better suit your unique preferences and/or requirements.

3. Hybrid:

This is a combination of private and public cloud elements wherein you can access your data and applications from anytime, using any device, from any location with the confidence of knowing your communications are encrypted and secure against unauthorized access. You can take advantage of the flexibility to ensure low costs while remaining safe.

What Are the Benefits of Cloud Adoption?

As mentioned above, there are many benefits of cloud adoption. Let’s take an in-depth look at the advantages you’ll find with the cloud:

1. More Cost Savings:
   You no longer have to worry about purchasing, maintaining, and supporting hardware or software. There’s no need to pay for electricity to power and cool equipment or added space to store equipment. Plus, a pay-as-you-go billing model keeps it affordable.
2. Increased Efficiency:
   Employees can work from any device or location, as long as they have an Internet connection. This increases efficiency throughout the entire workforce – allowing employees within each individual department to collaborate and get things done.
3. Fast Provisioning:
   Typically, a few mouse clicks is all it takes to add greater storage, users, and other resources to your service. This gives you the ability to provision and scale quickly when you need to get up and running.
4. Better Performance:
   Data centers tend to have the most up-to-date and efficient computing hardware available, which means you’re able to benefit from greater performance without having to invest in the latest equipment.
5. Comprehensive Security:
   Cloud providers have access to enterprise-grade security solutions many businesses can’t afford, such as military-grade encryption, firewalls, and around-the-clock physical protection to keep your applications, data, and infrastructure safe.
6. Simplified Data Backup: There’s no need to worry about losing all of your important information because cloud provider’s typically have backups in place to keep your information recoverable. Plus, they have redundancy in place to keep you operating in the event of disaster.

What Does Palindrome Consulting Recommend?

There are many cloud options available on the market. Palindrome Consulting offers two main cloud services that we’ve carefully selected for their enterprise-grade security features and high availability. This includes:

1. Microsoft Azure: Microsoft is a leader in the cloud space – and for good reason. Azure has several data centers and delivery points, which means you can depend on faster and more reliable availability, endless storage, and an optimal user experience.
2. Private Cloud: A cloud environment dedicated to you – meaning it’s completely isolated from any other users to give you optimal confidentiality while ensuring an exact architecture for your requirements.

Cloud adoption might seem nerve-wracking, but it doesn’t have to be. Our team offers a 1-hour guarantee for remote support and a 2-hour guarantee for on-site support – giving you peace of mind that cloud adoption will go smoothly with us by your side.

Palindrome Consulting is the preferred choice for IT services in Fort Lauderdale, FL. We know the cloud inside and out. Let’s talk. Contact us now.

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