More than ever the availability and security of a business’s data and systems is critical. Business owners are always looking for ways to improve security, add efficiency, and reduce costs, and when it comes to data storage and management, there are two main options: On-premises and Cloud-based. This article covers why more and more businesses have chosen the cloud to improve continuity, strengthen security, mitigate risks, and better manage costs.
What are on-premises and cloud-based data storage and management?
On-premises data storage and management refers to processing, storing, and managing information within your own physical environment. This can include physical hard drives, computer systems, or server databases located in-house at your organization. You'll manage everything yourself, pick your hardware and software setups, and control your data. This traditional approach comes with significant overhead, security risks, and challenges to maintaining the current technology advances.
Cloud-based storage is a model that manages data on the public cloud through a managed service provider. It provides a comprehensive and secure means to store, backup, and protect your data, allowing you to access it anytime, anywhere. Plus, with the use of advanced technology and stringent security protocols, storing information in the cloud is arguably even more secure than traditional on-premises models.
What are the key benefits of cloud-based data storage?
With so much data being generated daily, managing and securely storing it has become more challenging than ever, both logistically and from a cost perspective. Companies of all sizes are increasingly turning their attention to cloud-based data storage and management practices as their solution.
When it comes to data storage, the cloud-based solution includes the following benefits:
Increased flexibility and scalability – You can easily adjust your needs as they change, no matter how small or large these changes may be. You can scale quickly and easily, and transparently take advantage of the latest security and software advancements
Higher levels of security – Due to its strong encryption protocols, cloud-based data storage are top of their industry, they have the latest security tech to ensure all their client's data is in safe hands
Cost efficiency – You no longer capitalize expense for physical servers and employees to manage them. The cloud provider manages all this within your subscription agreement
Availability – Users can access their data from almost any location, with some solutions even offering offline access, you never have to worry about being left in the dark, and you can meet employees' expectations when it comes to remote working
Business continuity – Using the cloud provides redundancy for key data and applications. Not only are data backups much easier to configure and manage, but also in the event of any server or software issues a cloud-based model allows a more efficient way to get data and systems back online quickly
Data synchronization – Data entered or updated on any device will be reflected centrally and shareable to other devices and users, optimizing space usage and data integrity
Automation, efficiency, and usability – Cloud providers also offer as part of any subscription the access to continued improvements through built in automations and innovations. Software benefits and efficiencies are realized automatically, and many users can work concurrently without fear of disruption.
In summary, allowing experts in that field to handle your data storage needs will also free up resources so your team can focus on your core business objectives. Using the cloud is usually less expensive over the long term, removing the need for large capital expenditures, while giving you access to more features and scalability. They are also far more secure than on-premises servers and mitigate or remove much of the traditional risk with managing a data center in-house. Click here to contact ABM and discuss what we can to help you take full advantage.