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Using cloud-based services or a cloud provider to access computing resources ensures business continuity. This approach offers a cost-effective way to secure IT infrastructure, and physical infrastructure is becoming the new normal. The advantages of cloud computing include cost savings, improved efficiency, scalability, and enhanced security, all of which contribute to greater operational resilience and flexibility for businesses. Furthermore, it allows companies to scale resources and manage operational costs more efficiently, making it an essential part of a modern business strategy. These benefits help businesses stay competitive in a rapidly changing environment by enabling organizations to focus on their business goals rather than routine IT maintenance.
Understanding the Benefit of Cloud Computing
According to global corporate data, more than 90% of Fortune 500 companies rely on cloud or cloud-based tools for at least a portion of their underlying infrastructure. In addition, with 10 of 18 industrial sectors, 100% of Fortune 500 companies are cloud-computing reliant.
Because of this growing necessity for cloud computing and cloud computing providers, varying cloud-based services are evolving. Today, the technology industry offers many cloud computing services tailored to a company’s distinctive IT infrastructure, storage space needs, operating systems, and overall budget. There are different offerings available in the market, each designed to address specific business needs and use cases.
Cloud computing options vary widely, from popular providers like IBM Cloud and Google Cloud to private clouds with enhanced security and tailored access management. These features ensure the protection of valuable data, demonstrating that the sky is the limit in cloud computing options.
So, what exactly are the benefits of cloud computing, and what are the varying cloud-based services available?
The answers to these cloud computing questions are both broad and detailed. Furthermore, understanding the benefit of cloud computing begins with understanding the foundational elements of cloud computing itself. There are several types of cloud computing, such as IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS, each serving different business requirements and offering unique advantages.
Table of Contents
How Cloud Computing WorksDifferent Cloud Services and Cloud TechnologiesCloud Computing Based on DeploymentWhat Are the Benefits of Cloud Computing?Adopt the Best Cloud Computing Services for Your Business
What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is essentially defined as the use of hosted cloud services. These include data storage, servers, databases, networking, and software, all accessible online. Data storage is conducted on physical servers which are housed within a data center. However, the cloud computing services provider manages and maintains the data center and computing resources. Transitioning to a cloud based system can significantly improve operational efficiency for organizations by reducing the need for in-house management and maintenance.
Cloud technology has effectively replaced the need for organizations to have their own IT infrastructure and data centers. A cloud based platform eliminates the need for physical hardware management, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations while benefiting from cost savings and streamlined processes. In addition, it saves valuable IT staff time and eliminates the extensive costs of maintaining on-premises infrastructure.
However, more important than the cost savings, is the data security that a cloud service provider can offer. Companies with their own data centers are vulnerable to multiple security concerns and crisis-level security risks, from power outages and age-related hardware deterioration to simple user errors that can result in catastrophic data loss. However, most cloud environments are designed to mitigate security risks in all forms, with features ranging from data encryption to operating of advanced and fully secure data center facilities. A cloud environment is the comprehensive infrastructure where cloud services are deployed and managed, supporting scalability, flexibility, and robust security for business continuity.
How Cloud Computing Works
Instead of storing files on a data storage device, local server, or hard drive, multiple users save and access data in cloud systems. This means that everyone in an organization can access data and files with an internet connection. Cloud service providers enable users access to a wide range of resources and technologies, including seamless upgrades, hardware, and software platforms. Regardless of whether they rely on desktop or mobile access, cloud environments are essential for supporting mobile apps in various business use cases, such as mobile application testing and deployment for customer service. While cloud storage may utilize arrays of hard drives, the data is not stored locally.
When it comes to cloud computing services, there are several options that go miles beyond cloud computing basics. Additionally, cloud services can be broadly divided into infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and software as a service (SaaS). In contrast, the types of clouds can include public cloud, private cloud, and hybrid cloud.
Different Cloud Services and Cloud Technologies
Cloud Computing Based on Services
Cloud computing services are divided into infrastructure as a service, platform as a service, and software as a service. Let’s discover these three services below.
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is a foundational cloud computing service that delivers essential computing resources—such as virtual servers, storage, and networking—over the internet. With IaaS, businesses can quickly adapt to changing business demands by scaling their infrastructure up or down as needed, without the burden of investing in costly hardware or software. This flexibility is especially valuable for companies experiencing growth or fluctuating workloads, as it allows them to access powerful computing resources on a pay-as-you-go basis. By only paying for the resources they actually use, businesses can achieve significant cost savings while maintaining full control over their infrastructure. IaaS empowers organizations to focus on their core business objectives, leveraging the cloud to meet their infrastructure needs efficiently and cost-effectively.
Platform as a Service (PaaS)
Platform as a Service (PaaS) is a cloud computing solution that provides businesses with a comprehensive platform for developing, running, and managing applications. With PaaS, developers can concentrate on building innovative software without the hassle of managing the underlying infrastructure, such as servers, storage, or networking. This streamlined approach accelerates the development process, enabling faster time-to-market and greater productivity. PaaS platforms also incorporate advanced security measures, including data encryption and robust access controls, to safeguard sensitive information throughout the application lifecycle. For businesses seeking to deploy custom applications efficiently and securely, PaaS offers a significant advantage by simplifying infrastructure management and enhancing overall agility.
Software as a Service (SaaS)
Software as a Service (SaaS) is a cloud computing model that allows businesses to access software applications directly over the internet, eliminating the need for local installation or ongoing maintenance. With SaaS, companies benefit from a subscription-based pricing structure, which helps reduce costs and minimize the financial risks associated with traditional software ownership. This model provides easy access to a wide variety of applications—from productivity tools to customer relationship management platforms—on any device with an internet connection. SaaS is an ideal solution for businesses looking to streamline software management, reduce costs, and stay up-to-date with the latest innovations, all while enjoying the convenience and flexibility of cloud-based access.
Infrastructure as a service or IaaS
Infrastructure as a service or IaaS cloud service providers are responsible for the cloud servers, cloud storage, and networking. These services are all provided over a virtual interface that can be accessed with an internet connection. In the IaaS service model, the end user does not need to manage the cloud infrastructure. Still, the end user does have control over the data storage, operating systems, and cloud applications. A third-party cloud services provider hosts the hardware, data centers, software, and other infrastructure and hosts the applications and backups. In private cloud environments, dedicated hardware and software resources are allocated to support client needs, ensuring enhanced security and compliance for sensitive industries.
Platform as a service or PaaS
Platform as a service or PaaS cloud service providers offer the backbone and cloud-based development and deployment environment. At the same time, the user has the freedom to develop and run applications without the complexity of building or maintaining the behind-the-scenes infrastructure. The user can develop cloud-based applications but does not need to maintain the underlying infrastructure or data centers. Generally, in this type of cloud service, the user can utilize resources via a third-party vendor lock-in rate or can pay as they access resources over a secure internet connection.
Software as a service or SaaS
A SaaS provider allows end users to access the vendor’s cloud software development on a subscription basis. In this variation of cloud computing, the cloud user does not need to install or download cloud-based applications on their local devices. Instead, all cloud-based applications are on remote cloud networks or remote servers, which can be directly accessed via the web or an API.
In the software as a service model, the cloud services provider is responsible for all hardware, middleware, application software development, IT infrastructure, and security risks. This makes it easy for organizations to access data and applications, without worrying about security features, automatic software updates or other cloud technology maintenance and development concerns.
Cloud Computing Based on Deployment
There are essentially three distinct ways to deploy cloud services: a public cloud, a private cloud, or a hybrid cloud. Hybrid clouds allow businesses to maintain and utilize their own IT infrastructure, integrating cloud solutions with their existing infrastructure to extend and optimize current systems rather than replacing them entirely. Below is an overview of each of these cloud-based solutions and their potential cloud costs.
Public Clouds
Public clouds are essentially clouds that are owned and operated by a third-party cloud services provider which delivers multiple computing resources like services and data storage via an internet connection. With a public cloud, all the hardware, software, and other cloud infrastructure is solely managed by the cloud provider, and end users essentially access these cloud services via an internet connection. Public clouds enable customers to access data and services from anywhere, improving convenience, connectivity, and overall engagement.
A public cloud has inherent advantages and disadvantages. Public cloud providers save organizations from purchasing and managing their own on-premises infrastructure or data centers since the cloud providers are responsible for all aspects of cloud storage and access.
While public clouds often result in cost savings for the end user, this does mean that an organization has limited control over security risks and computing power. As a result, organizations may be more susceptible to data loss or have limited options when it comes to quick data recovery or disaster recovery. Additionally, organizations may experience downtime, which can temporarily prevent users from accessing cloud resources.
Despite the common pros and cons associated with public clouds, choosing the right provider can significantly mitigate these disadvantages. At DartPoints, our public cloud matches the flexibility, reliability, and performance of leading global providers and enhances security and compliance through unique offers. Our additional services, such as Managed Backup and Managed Security, are specifically designed to address and reduce these risks, setting us apart in the public cloud landscape.
Private Clouds
As the name implies, a private cloud refers to cloud computing resources that are solely developed for and used by a single organization. In a private cloud, dedicated cloud resources are allocated exclusively to that organization, ensuring enhanced security and compliance. A private cloud can be physically located at an organization’s own data center or a third party’s data center, depending on the distinctive needs or requirements of the client. In a private cloud, all services and infrastructure are maintained on a private network, tailored to the specific organization’s cloud computing requirements. A private cloud has all the benefits of a public cloud, like scalability, computing power, and availability of cloud-based applications with an internet connection. However, this cloud infrastructure is completely customized.
Another benefit of a public cloud via a private cloud is security. A private cloud is the best option for companies that deal with sensitive data, as the security controls are inherently more rigid, and only one organization has access to the lone private cloud. The main drawback to private clouds is the cost. Developing a private cloud may not be the best option for smaller businesses, however, a private cloud adoption may be surprisingly within reach for organizations of all sizes with the right private cloud provider.
Hybrid Cloud
A hybrid cloud is often a solid cloud-based solution for organizations that can benefit by utilizing varying aspects of a public cloud and a private cloud. In the hybrid cloud model, both public and private cloud features are found, and this cloud model allows workloads to effectively shift or be distributed between private and public cloud options. Hybrid clouds effectively allow businesses to maintain and utilize their own existing IT infrastructure, but with the freedom and flexibility to access the public cloud to handle any overflow. Hybrid cloud computing architecture combines public cloud, private cloud, and on-premises infrastructure to create a unified IT environment that offers flexibility and rapid resource provisioning.
A hybrid cloud is an optimal solution for many organizations, especially when a top hybrid cloud provider is enlisted, as it creates both a flexible and cost-effective cloud-based solution for IT infrastructure. A hybrid cloud allows a company to grow and evolve, ensuring effective data storage regardless of changes in workload, with extra security and compliance requirements to protect sensitive data. Hybrid cloud strategies also create growth opportunities by enabling organizations to rapidly scale resources and respond quickly to market changes. When partnered with DartPoints Multi-Cloud Connector, organizations have even more freedom and can effortlessly implement a hybrid, multi-cloud, or cloud-to-cloud strategy without the in-house challenges of internal maintenance and transitions.
What Are the Benefits of Cloud Computing?
Regardless of which cloud services are best suited for your company, cloud computing has multiple benefits. In this article, we will highlight the six advantages of cloud computing, providing a structured overview of the key reasons businesses are adopting these solutions. It’s a long and detailed list, but some of the most obvious benefits of cloud computing include the following.
Cost Savings
Most companies do not have the resources required to maintain a dedicated data center and all the hardware and infrastructure that such an undertaking requires. As a result, cloud computing solutions can save tons of costs versus having your own infrastructure and data center without sacrificing computing power or data storage capabilities.
Flexibility
As a company evolves, so do their computing needs. With cloud computing, businesses can effectively scale all resources and data storage to meet the organization’s growing demands without having to invest in new infrastructure. Instead, the cloud can handle the increasing workload levels and can even be scaled down if these cloud computing resources are not being utilized.
Better Protection and Security
When it comes to protecting sensitive data, cloud computing security is unmatched, especially when an advanced cloud computing resource like DartPoints is enlisted as the primary cloud services provider.
Cloud providers can be responsible for maintaining all aspects of security and have additional procedures in place to perform backups and restore data in just a few clicks if there is a breach or disaster of some kind.
The key to ensuring the best protection of your sensitive data is to partner with a cloud provider that prioritizes security across the board, as well as additional measures like automated backups or security risk detection. It’s crucial to remember that not all cloud providers are created equal, so do your research and ask questions when deciding between cloud providers to ensure that even if you opt for a public cloud, your data is secure and there are data loss prevention measures in place.
A Competitive Edge
When it comes to software development, cloud computing inherently offers a competitive edge. The fundamentals of cloud computing foster new innovations by making it simple to try out new ideas and new applications without any hardware limitations or slow procurement processes. As a result, organizations can work faster – and better – with accelerated development and quick deployments.
Better Accessibility
With cloud computing, end users can access all resources within an organization from any place, at any time, provided they have an internet connection. With a rising transition to remote work environments across all industries, this allows organizations to be more productive, while giving their team members the freedom and flexibility to work from any location.
This is also useful when it comes to emergencies, such as natural or other disasters that are close to home. While a disaster may wreak havoc on on-site facilities and a brick-and-mortar office location in a particular area, regardless of power outages or other emergency situations, all data and resources within the organization are still readily available to end users.
Business Continuity in the Cloud
Business continuity is a top priority for organizations of all sizes, and cloud computing services play a crucial role in ensuring operations remain uninterrupted during unexpected events. By leveraging cloud-based services such as automated data backup and disaster recovery, businesses can prevent data loss and ensure business continuity even in the face of natural disasters, simple user error, or other disruptions. Storing data in the cloud means that critical information is accessible from anywhere, at any time, allowing for rapid recovery and minimal downtime. Leading cloud providers, including Microsoft Azure, offer advanced security measures and robust infrastructure to support these essential services, giving businesses the confidence to focus on their core operations while knowing their data and systems are protected.
Enhancing Team Collaboration with Cloud Solutions
Cloud based services have revolutionized the way teams collaborate, making it easier than ever for employees to work together, regardless of their physical location. With cloud based applications like Google Drive, teams can access, edit, and share documents in real-time, fostering seamless communication and collaboration. These cloud based platforms provide a centralized workspace where team members can manage projects, track progress, and exchange feedback efficiently. By adopting cloud based solutions, businesses not only improve productivity and reduce costs but also contribute to a more sustainable future by minimizing the need for extensive hardware and software infrastructure. This shift not only enhances employee satisfaction and business growth but also helps reduce the organization’s carbon footprint, making cloud computing a smart and responsible choice for modern businesses.
Adopt the Best Cloud Computing Services for Your Business with DartPoints
Regardless of whether you are investigating your cloud computing options for the first time or are already reliant on cloud computing and want to determine if you have the right resources for your unique organization, DartPoints can help.
At DartPoints, our focus is solely on our clients and their distinctive cloud computing needs, which makes our cloud services stand out in a crowd of options. From cost-effective but incredibly secure public clouds to private or hybrid clouds that are designed to align with your company’s adaptable requirements, our 24/7/365 commitment to the best services possible allows our clients both peace of mind and the ability to have access to resources and technology that is typically reserved for the top 500 companies in the world.
Reach out to us today, and let’s start a discussion about your pain points, your needs and goals, and how our cloud computing services can help your organization evolve and grow. With a resource like DartPoints, your business can be at the cutting-edge forefront of cloud computing services now and well into the future.