Cloud computing is woven into our personal and professional lives. We are accustomed to using cloud-based apps on our own for entertainment (Netflix), shopping (Amazon), socializing (Facebook), family gatherings (Zoom), banking (Zelle), and more. At work, you may use Google Drive, Microsoft 360, Trello, NetSuite, Slack, etc.
Most companies are already using some type of cloud solution. Yet, cloud environments are complex, and you have many decisions to make about using the cloud for your business.
Comparing Clouds
Comparing and contrasting cloud offerings requires analysis of services, actual cost comparisons, and real-world experiences in cloud deployment and usage.
Public Cloud
Cloud service providers offer public cloud service over the internet to anyone that wants to subscribe. The services can be free or sold on-demand. Typically, users pay for storage or the bandwidth they consume. In short, using a public cloud is cost-effective, highly scalable, universally accessible, and offers automatic data backups. A few of the top public cloud service providers are Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.
Private Cloud
Simply put, the main difference between private and public clouds is that the resources of the cloud are restricted to one company – it is closed off from public use.
Before the ubiquitous cloud solutions we know today, many enterprises developed their own private cloud infrastructures in-house. Now, this technology is available to companies of all sizes via managed service providers who host and secure private cloud hardware and networking infrastructure. Private clouds tend to cost more than public clouds and may take some time to implement, but the security is significantly stronger, and we can customize the services for you. Many companies choose to or are required to use a private cloud to store and process sensitive data. Businesses such as medical, legal, and accounting companies must adhere to specific data privacy and protection regulations.
Hybrid Cloud
To take advantage of the benefits of both the public and private cloud solutions, the move to hybrid cloud deployments is becoming more common. A hybrid cloud infrastructure blends the use of the private and public cloud. Companies may use the public cloud for essential daily functions and then use a private cloud for their sensitive data. The functionality of hybrid cloud solutions is quickly evolving and may allow your business to average down your costs.
Clearing Up the Clouds
Reach out to us today to learn how you can migrate to the cloud and maximize the total value of your cloud investment.
