Cloud services are not just about storing data in a safer place. It’s a fundamental technological change that has changed the way how businesses operate. Ask those business owners who are now capable of accessing their data from anywhere, harnessing powerful tools, or scaling their businesses effortlessly. For them, it’s a revolution that is helping their businesses to grow and innovate.
This article is a guide to cloud services. We’re going to explain what cloud services are and if they’re better than in-house services. Read on if you want to find out more about cloud services:
The Cloud Model
The cloud model follows a pay-as-you-go pricing model. Businesses can get access to several computing and IT resources over the internet such as processing power, storage, databases, and more.
In short, a cloud model eliminates the need to purchase and maintain on-premises physical data centers, servers, and various technologies.Precisely, three cloud models are helping businesses in different ways. These are:
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
SaaS includes cloud-based software, apps, or tools. Rather than investing or creating and maintaining their software, businesses can opt for SaaS products and pay a fee while using them.
Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)
While SaaS gives you cloud-based apps or software, IaaS provides you storage, servers, or networks. This way, IaaS allows businesses to do away with the need to maintain on-premises data centersPlatform-as-a-service (PaaS)
It’s a platform where users get to use hardware or software over a cloud-based platform. A diverse set of development tools are provided by PaaS and this makes it a likely choice for most developers.
Moving on, let’s see if it’s cloud products are better than on-premises software and tools:
Cloud Services vs On-Premises Services
| Cloud Services | On-Premises Services |
| Cloud services are usually based on a subscription model. It may be charged weekly, monthly, or annually and users only have to pay as long as they’re using the cloud services. | Companies may build their tools or software. They can also buy tools or software but may be required to pay a fee per user or device. |
| Users don’t have to update or maintain the cloud services. | Companies have to update and maintain tools since they own them. |
| Cloud services provide ease, but there is less data control. | Businesses are in direct charge of their hardware and data. |
| Users have no control over security updates or patches. | Companies can upgrade data security to the highest level. |
| Cloud services can easily cater to increasing demands. | Companies may need to upgrade hardware or software to scale the business. |
Pre-Requisites of Using Cloud Services
- A business should keep its existing IT infrastructure in mind before choosing cloud services.
- A quality connection, for instance, Xfinity Internet is a must to use cloud services.
- Employees should be trained to effectively use the cloud services.
- A business should come up with a data migration plan to ensure a smooth transfer of existing data to cloud-based servers and databases.
Now, let’s see what are some major benefits businesses can get after opting for cloud services.
What Can Businesses Get Out of Cloud Services?
While a company can go for in-house tech development, cloud services seem a better choice for the following reasons:
Access to the Latest Software and Tools
One way to get a competitive advantage over competitors is to be ahead in technology. Buying software or developing one may not only be costly but time-consuming as well. However, cloud services can give you access to the latest software or tools available in the market.
Maintenance and Upgradation
A business may grow over time and require more computing power or IT services to support its expanding operations. They may also need a standby team of IT professionals to fix bugs and issues in on-premises tools and software.
On the flip side, if a business is using cloud services, it does not need to maintain, secure, or update them. The cloud host will manage the services while a business will only pay for the cloud services it uses.
Cost-Effective
Availing services of a cloud company can save you a lot of bucks. Businesses don’t have to buy or invest in any software. Instead, they can avail cloud services for a subscription fee.
Mobility and Scalability
With cloud services, expanding the business becomes easier. A business can quickly add resources, for instance, new software, databases, or storage according to its needs without worrying about any physical limitations.
Reliability
In-house software or tools may seem a more reliable option. However, cloud services are equally good because of their advanced security protocols.
Key Takeaways
- Businesses can easily access advanced tools and software, save costs, and grow their operations via subscription-based cloud services.
- Businesses do not need to maintain or upgrade the cloud services, as it is the responsibility of the cloud host.
- Cloud services are divided into three categories; SaaS, IaaS, and PaaS.
- Using cloud services can be cost-effective for businesses that want to access the latest software and tools.
