Individuals, companies, charities, and other organizations rely on cloud computing en masse these days. As more and more data goes digital, most of us utilize external cloud-based tech to save our important documents, photographs, videos, presentations, spreadsheets, and more.
However, even though millions of people use the cloud daily, this doesn’t mean there aren’t still plenty of myths about this technology doing the rounds. Read on to learn about some of the most pervasive ones.
Your Files Aren’t Secure in the Cloud
You may have heard people say that you shouldn’t store things in the cloud because this option isn’t secure. However, the reality is that cloud tech firms are very focused on security because they’re handling the data of so many clients and must keep everyone’s information as secure as possible if they want to stay in business.
There are numerous compliance requirements for them to adhere to, and they’re subject to various regulatory bodies. The tech providers generally employ dozens of security measures to keep data safe. Typically, these solutions are much more secure than what people would set up with their own on-site facilities.
There’s No Need to Consider Security Any Further When Saving to the Cloud
Do note, though, that just because the cloud is quite secure, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be taking additional measures to protect your details, documents, and the like. No system is 100 percent safe at all times and impervious to any risk since issues can arise due to outages, internal or external hacks, etc.
As such, you should continue to put disaster recovery and business continuity plans in place, just in case the worst happens and you lose data, or it’s stolen. You should have backup strategies all worked out and know how to best deal with downtime, particularly for the critical processes you run via the cloud. While most cloud operators have automatic backup features and recovery options for clients, having multiple back-ups is helpful to mitigate risk.
Keep in mind that you can take steps to increase security, too. For example, don’t give out your cloud server’s login details to anyone you don’t have to, and ensure the passwords you choose for accounts are hard to guess. They should be at least eight characters long and made up of various letters, numbers, and symbols. You should use secured Wi-Fi when saving things to the cloud and accessing them that way, too. Plus, you can purchase external cloud security products to increase safety further.
The Cloud is Perfect for All Needs
Some people erroneously think that the cloud is perfect for all needs, no matter what. However, while cloud services are excellent tools that suit many firms, individuals, organizations, and situations, this doesn’t mean it’s perfect for all workloads. Often, it’s necessary to utilize a hybrid solution by combining public and private cloud services and on-premise storage systems.
Also, some applications aren’t fit for the cloud, or you may find that trying to move a legacy application across to the cloud leads to more complications than benefits. Before making changes, take the time to examine how all data flows in, out, and around your organization and consider using non-cloud solutions as needed.
You Only or Always Get Cost Savings By Moving to the Cloud
Saving money is one of the main reasons why people move to the cloud, but this doesn’t mean it’s the only one. Ignore the myth that only cost savings arise when using cloud solutions, or those cost savings are guaranteed. It’s vital to analyze your specific situation to determine the best option for your needs and ensure you will not only reduce your costs but also enjoy other benefits. For example, moving to the cloud offers agility, increased collaborations, flexibility, scalability, and better quality control. Other benefits include sustainability, security, and mobility.
Items Are Either Saved to the Cloud or Saved Elsewhere
Lastly, another pervasive myth is that you either save items to the cloud or save them on-site. However, this is not the case so often these days. Many businesses and individuals choose a hybrid setup and move some data and processes, systems, etc., to the public cloud while keeping some within on-site storage facilities and some in a private cloud system. You don’t have to choose one or the other, and a mixture of options will often make it much easier, cheaper, and stress-free to manage your data over time.
Take your time examining different cloud computing service providers to find the right tools and check out testimonials and reviews from other customers for insights. Check all the nitty gritty on fee structures before signing up with a service, too, and don’t be afraid to contact customer service departments for assistance if you require it.
