If you’ve decided to take full advantage of cloud computing, you’re going to need to find a provider. There are many out there but not all of them are going to be right for you. There are several important factors to consider before you decide to work with one provider over another, here’s what you need to know and to look for.
Security Features
Believe it or not there are some providers out there that don’t do enough when it comes to security. As many businesses are saving a lot of sensitive data on the cloud, the security needs to be one of the most important factors. Losing files, having data lost or stolen can cost businesses big time, even leading to the closure of the firm, so security has to be taken very seriously. When you’re looking for a provider make security your top concern, data must be encrypted securely when in transit and while resting on your account. Did you know Google Drive doesn’t encrypt data at rest? It’s a concern for all businesses and yet many individuals are not aware of this fact, opening themselves up to risks.
Cloud Service Management
Another issue is the cloud service management that’s offered. You should look for a centrally controlled system so you’re able to integrate the service with your internal systems with ease. That way you’re able to manage and secure that service more efficiently at your end.
For example, you may wish to use the systems via mobile devices such as your smartphone or tablet. This is one of the benefits of cloud computing that can enhance your life and work/life balance. Not all cloud computing providers have ways of integrating their services with mobile devices, meaning you miss out on some of the benefits of using this technology. The more integrated the service is with your mobile device the better, it’s more secure and provides excellent ways for you to manage your time and your business while away from the office desk.
Data Recovery Systems
A huge advantage of using cloud computing is the improved data recovery systems. If you lose data on your computers or work servers the loss of data can be devastating to the company. Getting the data back may not be possible, and even if it is, it could take weeks to get back on track. Time is money, loss of trust is money and if you lose data there is a real chance that your entire company will go under. The key to survival is recovering data and improving the security and systems as quickly as possible.
Cloud computing provides excellent data recovery systems but you must be familiar with the way you can benefit through your provider. Learn about their disaster recovery systems and how much time it can take you to access your data and get back on your feet. There needs to be real time services and support in place. Check to see how you can contact support at any time and if there are useful FAQs available so you’re able to begin working on the recovery process quickly. Therefore before committing to a provider read the service level agreement carefully and ensure you understand the terms.
The User Experience
The user experience is vital as you need to be confident in using the cloud computing services and so do your employees and clients if applicable. The systems should be set up in a way that aids usage. If it’s not efficient or is too complicated to use there is no way it will be of benefit to your company. Choose your cloud provider with care and always raise your concerns and questions before committing.
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