What Is Cloud Computing And How Can It Help Your Business?

The cloud has become a buzzword for business productivity in the last few years. It refers to a centralized online location that can be used to store data then access it from any device with an Internet connection. When consumers back up the photos on their phones, they’re using cloud computing. The implications of cloud computing for businesses are far grander, though. Read on to find out about a few ways it can help businesses of all sizes grow and thrive.

Remote Access

Since the cloud can be accessed from anywhere by any employee with appropriate password credentials, cloud computing makes it much easier to work remotely. Not only can employees work from home if they need to, but high-level executives can travel abroad without worrying about taking an entire hard drive of data with them. All they’ll need is a laptop with a secure Internet connection. Business owners who switch to the cloud should protect their data using a Managed IT Service.

Optimized File Storage

Large audio, video, and image files take up a lot of space on local hard drives. Shifting them to the cloud makes it easy to optimize file storage by saving only those files that need to be accessed every day on the local system, saving money on hardware updates.

Flexible Expansion Options

The ability to access the company network remotely makes it easier for growing businesses to accommodate new workers without needing to worry about renting larger offices or buying more equipment. That’s a huge benefit for start-ups, which tend to increase exponentially in size as they find success in their niches. Instead of paying for space or services they don’t need, business owners can tailor cloud-based resources to their companies’ requirements and scale them up as they grow.

Financial Optimization

Cloud computing can help to minimize business expenses in several ways. Businesses that use cloud computing in traditional office environments will need to invest less in buying new hardware or software every time updates come out. They’ll also spend less time troubleshooting computer problems, especially if they work with a third-party IT firm that specializes in cloud computing.

Businesses that use the cloud to operate remotely can cut back on spending even more. Instead of requiring workers to go into the office every day, they can allow employees to work from home. This allows companies to downsize their office space, which means lower rents, lower utility bills, and fewer expenses related to internal server maintenance.

Secure Data Storage

Data losses can be devastating for businesses of all sizes. Cloud computing makes it easy to back up data. Most programs back up data automatically and store copies of-site where they will be safe from natural disasters, thefts, and other localized issues.

Easy, Safe File Sharing

Cloud computing makes it easier to share data with in-house staff members, remote teams, business partners, and even customers or clients. Managers can set permissions for a file, then just send a link to whoever needs to access the data. This eliminates the need for emailing large files, which can quickly become a hassle for businesses that transmit large amounts of data.

The Bottom Line

The popularity of cloud computing has exploded in recent years among consumers and businesses, alike. Business owners who have yet to get on board with this trend should consider making the switch as soon as possible.