Cloud computing is an ever-evolving technology. Every single day there are adjustments and improvements. By now, in 2018, the question of moving your business’ data to a cloud-based (or hybrid) solution is not an ‘if’ but a ‘when’. Any business that migrates their data to the cloud is significantly less likely to lose that data.

However, before they make any decisions when it comes to their business, a smart entrepreneur does as much research as possible beforehand. We’ve written blogs about the cloud in the past, but these five critical facts about cloud computing deserve to be emphasized.

  1. All businesses are vulnerable to cyber attacks. No matter what size (and the numbers say small businesses are the biggest targets for cyber threats), every single business should be arming itself against hackers, viruses, and malware. This security should absolutely be left to the professionals, as any error could be leaving a back door open for attackers. Cloud computing is a critical factor here - it’s essential for recovery. If your data is not backed up locally and in the cloud, you could have a major problem getting your data back and your business up and running. 
  2. Speaking of local backups, a data server located in your office is common in many businesses. While we don’t suggest getting rid of your newer server entirely, studies have shown that 80% of businesses purchased a server with more capacity than they need. This is an expensive piece of hardware that needs replaced every 5 years, on average. It’s not necessary to pay for an entire server when you only use 20% of it. This is where cloud computing comes in. The cloud is a pay as you grow solution. Because your data is stored in a massive warehouse full of servers, you only pay for the exact amount of storage your data requires. 
  3. The cloud is everywhere - literally. A cloud based technology called Internet of Things is becoming an essential part of our daily lives. Devices like Alexa, smart home security systems, and Siri are only the beginning. As the IoT develops into more complex systems, they’ll be using more and more of the cloud. (Thankfully, the cloud is almost limitless). It’s suggested that there will be 20 billion IoT devices by 2020. 
  4. Even if you don’t need your data in the cloud to operate your business, manufacturers for instance, it’s unlikely that your office staff feel the same way as your warehouse team. Over 90% of sales and marketing teams need cloud based applications to get their jobs done. Applications like Salesforce, Infusionsoft, and even your website and social media are all cloud-based technologies. If your marketing team isn’t keeping your website updated, how will your customers know you exist? 
  5. An astounding amount of data is being stored in the cloud. It’s estimated at 1.1ZB (that’s zettabyte, which equals a trillion GB. Your cell phone likely has 16GB or 32GB storage capacity). This cloud data is twice what it was last year, and it’s only going to grow. Thankfully, we have the technology and the space to make that happen.  

Learn more about the cloud and how you can use it in your business by downloading our free copy of the Simplified Business Continuity Planning Guide.