Cloud computing is the technology that has shaped the world of businesses. Many companies of all shapes and sizes are adapting this new technology. Further to this, many industry experts believe that this trend will only continue to grow and develop even further in the coming few years.
While many of the big organizations have tasted success from cloud computing, which in return have proved that cloud computing is undoubtedly beneficial for mid-size to large companies; it is not without its downsides, especially for smaller businesses.
We bring to you a comprehensive list of advantages of disadvantages of cloud computing, with a view to understanding the overall phenomenon of cloud computing and helping organizations fully understand the concept of cloud computing.
Advantages of Cloud Computing
Cost Efficient- Cloud computing is considered by many as the most cost efficient method to use, maintain and upgrade. Traditional desktop software costs companies a lot in terms of finance. Adding up the licensing fees for multiple users can prove to be very expensive for the establishment concerned. The cloud, on the other hand, is available at much cheaper rates and hence, can significantly lower the company’s IT expenses.
Almost Unlimited Storage- Storing information in the cloud gives its user an advantage of unlimited storage capacity. Hence, they no more need to worry about running out of storage space or increasing current storage space availability.
Backup and Recovery
Cloud gives the ease to store all the data in the cloud, backing it up and restoring the same which is comparatively much easier than the whole process of storing the same on a physical device. Additionally, most cloud service providers are usually competent enough to handle recovery of information. Hence, this makes the entire process of backup and recovery much simpler than other traditional methods of data storage.
Automatic Software Integration-
Software integration is usually something that occurs automatically in the cloud. Which means that the user does not need to take additional efforts to customize and integrate applications as per their preferences. This aspect usually takes care of itself. Not only that, cloud computing allows to customize options with great ease.
Easy Access to Information- Once the user registers them in the cloud, they will be eligible for accessing the information from anywhere, where there is an Internet Connection. This convenient feature lets them move beyond time zone and geographic location issues.
Quick Deployment-
Lastly, cloud computing gives its users the advantage of quick deployment. Once the user will opt for this method of functioning, their entire system can be fully functional in a matter of a few minutes. Of course, the amount of time taken here will depend on the exact kind of technology that you need for your business.
Disadvantages of Cloud Computing
In spite of its many benefits, cloud computing also has its disadvantages also. The disadvantages are:
Technical Issues- One should be aware of the fact that cloud technology is always prone to outages and other technical issues, though it is true that information and data on the cloud can be accessed anytime and from anywhere at all. Even the best cloud service providers run into this kind of trouble, in spite of keeping up high standards of maintenance.
Security in the Cloud- Before adopting cloud, one should know that they surrendering company’s sensitive information to a third-party cloud service provider. This in return could potentially put the company at great risk. Hence, one need to make absolutely sure that they choose the most reliable service provider, who will keep information totally secure.
Prone to Attack- we all are very well aware that nothing on the internet is completely secure, storing the information in the cloud could make your company vulnerable to external hack attacks and threats.
Driving the Conclusion
Like everything else in this world, cloud computing too has its share of good and bad. Over the years the technology has proved to be a great asset to businesses, it could also cause harm if not used properly by businesses