In recent years, cloud-based services have completely revolutionised mobile access and remote computing – so much so, in fact, that many companies around the world have moved their fixed-line, fixed-location networks completely online to the cloud.
Cloud computing may seem like the next big thing but, in reality, the principles have been around a very long time. The idea of storing important documents and files remotely has been with us for many years – for example, Dropbox, Google Photos, etc – but what has changed more than anything is the ease of use and the added protection of bullet-proof security. Moreover, modern cloud networks have also adapted to allow for multi-employee, company-wide access rather than just being tailored as an individual storage solution.
Integrating with a secure cloud-based network could completely revolutionise the way you do business in several different ways, including:
Allowing your employees to work remotely
Employees have clamoured for the right to work from home for many years however only with the advent of the cloud has the technology existed to make remote-working a reality.
Indeed, in light of the coronavirus pandemic, many companies were forced to allow remote-working as a result of lockdown and personal distancing measures. Thankfully, cloud-based computing was already so advanced that it was more than capable and ready to step up to the challenge of facilitating working from home. Even the most limited computer networks were able to seamlessly integrate with cloud services to facilitate employees working from home.
Cloud services are scalable and can grow as you grow
Unlike traditional, in-office networks, cloud networks are 100% scalable and can grow and adapt as your business requirements change. The days of attempting to predict how many servers a company might need to run its internal network are long gone – as are the hassles of trying to find adequate storage space for your network servers.
Nowadays, companies can simply request more storage, bandwidth or processing power at the press of a button and the cloud provider will upscale their services. Likewise, should a company find the need to downscale for any reason, the provider can reduce services very easily.
Better security
Another advantage the cloud has over traditional in-house networks is it offers managed security – meaning you don’t need to worry about your data or network being compromised. All the major cloud services come with in-built support and security, however, if you want to be 100% secure, you should also consider investing in a Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) solution that will further limit who can access your data; click here to find out more from Proofpoint.
The cloud reduces fixed infrastructure costs
More employees working from home can result in reduced office space and equipment requirements (e.g. desks, computers, printers, telephones etc). As well as reducing your office costs, it can also help minimise other associated expenses like rates and utility bills.
Taking things a step further, cloud services can even help streamline your operations by automating previously time-consuming tasks like Customer Relationship Management (CRM), payroll and accounting or scheduling appointments.
Adopting automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications in your office network may seem like a costly investment to start with, but the Return on Investment (ROI) will soon emerge, making it worthwhile.
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