Using Cloud Computing: What to consider

  

    Many users who access applications through the Cloud seem to do so without understanding the complications that can arise if something were to go wrong. However, the benefits of using apps from the Cloud, such as iCloud, for example, which allows apple users access applications like Keynote and Pages, can create documents easily from any desktop with a web browser. The benefits of these types of services can be easy to use, be cost-efficient, and where backup and recovery can be quickly made. These hosting services can also offer another benefit, which is 24/7 support as well.

    Unfortunately, there are some downsides to these types of services. As many businesses may use services already, the biggest issue is trusting these services with your business's sensitive data. There have been cases where Software as a Service or SaaS providers have been targeted by hackers more frequently and have been easily compromised. This can be troublesome as this service is the most targeted than other services, such as PaaS and IaaS.

    Another downside is always having to be reliant on a network connection. Sadly, there is no way around this as you need a network to send files to the Cloud and to retrieve them later when needed. A network is also necessary if you are using a virtual machine even if you were to opt for an Infrastructure as a Service or IaaS. Depending on your business, losing connection due to a storm or outage can be departmental.

     Limited Features are another issue that can come up as not all providers are the same. These features can be vast amounts of providers; however, the most glaring is free services that provide limited bandwidth, and if your business requires a higher bandwidth, you may have to pay a cost to extend those features. Depending on your business needs are, this can prove to be costly.

       Loss of Control is another risk as you trust another party to be custodial of your sensitive data. You trust them to maintain their data centers and servers and believe that they are in compliance and security in both online and physical. At times, there can be a lack of in-house control of the server, which can be a glaring issue.

       In closing, if a company were to consider using applications in the Cloud, it would be best to research companies that are highly rated, and in compliance with industry standards.  Also, consider in-house IT in the case the Cloud were to become out of reach due to an outage. It is always best to have a backup plan in case something was to happens.