Common Misconceptions about Cloud Technology

Cloud technology has provided great relief for businesses and IT professionals in managing workflow efficiently. With the changes the pandemic has forced us to cope with, many migrated to the cloud to continue their operations and support a remote setup. A survey finds that 70% of companies have adopted a cloud environment in 2021, proving that the cloud is really an in-demand service for organizations to continue their operations. Awareness and demand for the cloud are continuously growing, but some are influenced by misconceptions.   Let’s breakdown the myths and misconceptions about cloud technology:  

MYTH #1: MIGRATING TO CLOUD IS EXPENSIVE 

On-Premise systems can require large upfront purchases that consume capital expenditure (CAPEX).  Costs associated with hardware, software licensing, power consumption and supporting On-Premise solutions can be offset by monthly fees that are classified as an operating expense (OpEx).  Moving into the cloud reduces the need for infrastructure investments.  Cloud solutions can provide a cost-effective scalable option for business of all sizes.  Businesses should not only consider the initial cost but take into account the ROI of utilizing the cloud long term. A published report stated that 80% of cloud users reported cost savings after migrating to the cloud. The cloud allows you to be flexible with your spending as you can set up an arrangement to only pay for what you use. Contracts are usually fixed monthly or yearly, allowing you to plan budget allocations as the cost is predictable. You can easily scale up cloud storage as your business grows. Ways your IT strategies can help improve your cash flow is a good resource on how to leverage your software and hardware.  

MYTH #2: CLOUD IS VULNERABLE TO CYBER ATTACKS 

According to a report by McAfee, 52% of businesses experience improved security with the cloud compared to on-premise environments. Cloud providers are backed up by industry experts that ensure that your assets are always safe through data encryption and advanced security procedures. Cloud providers perform regular, automated backups to ensure that your data is updated and secure. This 2022, top cloud providers continuously ramp up their cybersecurity initiatives to safeguard critical data stored by their users to support the ongoing demands of companies migrating to the cloud. This shows that cloud users are provided with the latest cybersecurity solutions that might not be accessible to local IT professionals that maintain their physical infrastructure.   The cloud also plays a significant role in your disaster recovery strategies. While there may be nothing you can do to stop or even predict the calamities that can threaten your company, there are things you can take to hasten your recovery. The cloud offers rapid data recovery in all types of emergency situations, including power outages and natural disasters.  

MYTH #3: UNDERSTANDING CLOUD IS COMPLICATED 

Cloud technology is not that complex. In simple terms, the cloud hosts a software platform‚ making it available online that can be accessed anywhere via the Internet. Emails such as Outlook, Gmail, and Yahoo are cloud-based apps. Using one of these means you’re already a cloud user. Everyone has been using the cloud in their daily routine but might not be aware of it. Cloud technology is the future, from storing data to tapping new customers and online banking.    Microsoft reports that 95% of hybrid or multicloud was critical to their business success. Organizations using the cloud have seen the tremendous benefits of working in the cloud as it helped them boost their operations and increase business agility.  

MYTH #4: THE CLOUD IS A ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL 

The cloud gives you flexibility and scalability. Cloud providers offer various solutions based on your company’s specific requirements giving you more control over costs and work performance.   Cloud solutions allow you to only pay for what you use and can scale up or down with your business needs.  

MYTH #5: THE CLOUD IS FOR EVERYONE

While cloud solutions have many benefits they do not provide the customization and control of On-Premise solutions.  Some Legacy systems cannot be supported in the Cloud.  For these reasons many companies have incorporated a Hybrid of both On-Premise and Cloud solutions to support their IT needs.       In Summary:  Blackpoint IT can assist with a Cloud or On-Premise strategy and migration to take you from your current IT environment to one that fits your company’s future goals.