Cloud storage is widely used by many businesses across the world today but there are plenty still who are holding back. If you remain on the fence and have yet to recognise the value in switching to cloud computing for your business, this is the article for you. We’re going to highlight the pros and cons of using cloud storage so you can decide as to whether or not it is a viable move for you. Here’s what you need to know…
The pros of using cloud storage
So, what’s all the fuss about? Does cloud storage really live up to the hype?
- Disaster recovery: there are a million and one things that can go wrong and all it takes is one disaster to compromise your business’s valuable and irreplaceable data. With cloud storage however, the risk of system failure is significantly reduced as all of your data will be backed-up on an external device – thousands of miles away from your location. Whether your hard-drive malfunctions, you are subject to malicious digital threats, or your premises is involved in a natural disaster, with cloud storage, you’ll have no difficulty retrieving your data.
- Easy access: cloud storage can be accessed literally anywhere. You don’t have to be in the same physical location as the physical hard-drive containing your data – which means you and all your employees can get to critical decision-making data on the move.
- Affordability: it’s far cheaper to use cloud storage solutions than it is to house your own data, have an in-house team to oversee it, or invest in expensive server infrastructure / software and licence updates, etc.
- Scalability: simply put, you only pay for the storage you need – and can easily scale it accordingly as you grow your business.
- Security: the best cloud services in Australia use the finest encryption technology and maintain the highest levels of security so you don’t have to.
The cons of using cloud storage
Like anything in life, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. So, what are the drawbacks of using cloud storage?
- Lack of total control: while you will have safe and secure access to your data, the lack of ability to control and customise your data storage set-up can be off-putting for some large businesses.
- Can be hard to migrate data: once you’re established with one cloud storage provider, migrating your data to another cloud provider down the line can be problematic. This is why it’s very important to ensure you choose the right cloud service provider from the get go.
- Internet required for access: without internet access, gaining access to your data will be impossible. As such, any extended internet failure can lead to expensive downtime.
Final thoughts
All in all, the pros far outweigh the cons. The ‘drawbacks’ are only really problematic if you rush your decision and sign up to the first cloud service provider you come across.
That said, there are many superior cloud service providers that can help you take your critical data storage requirements to the next level. Ultimately, for modern businesses wanting to thrive in the digital era, cloud storage is very much the way of the future.