Many businesses are opting for cloud computing solutions to run applications and manage and store various data. The cloud may be more cost-effective and allow you greater flexibility and efficiency in your day-to-day business operations.
When you make cloud computing decisions for your business, you’ll have to consider whether you want to use public or private cloud computing, or perhaps some hybrid of the two.
With a public cloud, you’d typically be sharing server space and other resources with multiple organizations or individuals.
With a private cloud, you’d be using a system that’s been set up for your business only; maybe you’d be using your own servers, or drawing on a dedicated server offered by a third-party provider.
What Might Lead You to Consider Private Cloud Solutions?
A private cloud is more secure. If you have serious concerns about data security, or you are required to maintain a certain level of privacy about your data (e.g. you’re in the healthcare field) you may not want to have your information stored on or shared across a public cloud; for some types of information, you may be legal restricted from doing so. A private cloud may also be more reliable, particularly if you have experienced IT professionals manage it for you, making it less likely that you’ll struggle with lapses in service.
However, if you choose the right public cloud service provider, you could enjoy top-notch security on a public cloud network (and, with some service providers, compliance with HIPAA and other regulations as needed). Public cloud solutions are also generally more affordable, an important consideration particularly if you’re a small-to-midsize business.
What Decision Should You Make?
It’s best to contact an experienced managed services provider to come up with cloud solutions that are tailored to your business. If you decide to go with private cloud solutions, a managed services provider will be able to configure them for you and perform monitoring, maintenance, upgrades and other adjustments when needed. You need the guidance of IT experts to make sure your cloud computing solutions are as secure and effective as possible for your business.
