Cloud storage — it can sound a bit complex and perhaps like something that only large businesses or those involved in IT would think about using. However, object-based cloud storage systems and cloud computing in general is considered one of the most important technologies available to all types of businesses today. Even if you own a small to medium-sized business, you can obtain great benefits by utilizing the cloud for much of your storage needs. Look at the three biggest benefits of cloud storage — ease of access, ease of sharing and security — and discover how cloud storage will work within your firm.
Ease of Access
When data is stored in the clouds, you can access it from the office computer, your home computer, a tablet and even your smartphone. This is very important for many client-based businesses. If you need access to information while on sales calls, you will never have to worry about bringing that flash drive or emailing yourself files again. This data is stored remotely and you can access it anywhere. Managed cloud hosting services have a very high uptime and will ensure that you can always access your files when you need it.
Ease of Sharing
Not only can you share data within your firm by giving other employees access to the data cloud, more and more cloud programs are set up to work directly with social networking programs and email. This means that it is simple to share a file with the employee at the next desk or your client that is located around the world. Cloud storage is designed for sharing and collaboration. Once you see how easy this is, you will wonder how you lived without these benefits.
Security
One concern many businesses have with embracing the cloud for its data storage needs is the security of the data. Luckily, this is one area that has been addressed by cloud computing firms. In fact, data that you store on the cloud is often more secure than data that you keep directly on your computer or on a flash drive. A HowStuffWorks article breaks down the different ways cloud computing companies protect your data. You will see that through encryption, authentication and authorization practices, your information is kept safe — even as you reap the other benefits of storing your data in the cloud.
As you can see, there are many benefits to using the cloud to manage your company’s data. According to a Forbes.com article, 61 percent of SMBs are already using cloud-based solutions. Unless you want to fall behind, you will need to harness the cloud as well. With more managed options available than ever before, it is easy for even those not technologically savvy to get started. Remember, storage is only the beginning. In the next few years, there will be more and more cloud-based solutions. Therefore, if you can get started today, it will save you time and difficulty later as you want to take advantage of other programs in the cloud.