Cloud Computing

In very general terms cloud computing is where a service is offered over the internet and is hosted by a 3rd party company who will generally manage and maintain the service and charge a cost per user per month to have access.

The following list gives examples of services provided in the cloud:-

• Hosted email (often MS Exchange)
• Customer relationship Management programs
• Telephone systems
• Hosted PC desktops
• Data backup and storage

The list of services that can be delivered on a cloud basis is already large and will continue to grow but should your business be considering cloud computer for all or part of its IT solution?

In reality there is a reasonable chance that you are already using some form of cloud based solution and that going forwards your overall IT solution is likely to be made up of a combination of “owned” and “hosted” products/services to provide you with the best all round solution for your budget.

Pros and cons for cloud.

Pros.

• Low initial capital costs
• Easier provisioning
• All upgrades included

Cons.

• Ongoing operating costs
• Reliance on Internet connection
• Reduced level of control over your solution

Hands-On Computers have working relationships with some of the largest cloud service providers and are continuously researching and developing this fast moving sector of the IT industry and our experience has shown that whilst it is possible to move a great deal of a companies IT from owned to hosted it is vital to make sure that this is the correct move and is in the company’s best interests. 

A major consideration is how a cloud solution will fit in with your business needs and budgets and as with any IT solution the best way to assess this is by speaking to a trusted partner who has experience of selecting and working with cloud providers which Hands-On Computers are very well placed to do.

If you wish to know more about cloud computing or simply want to get a comparative quote for an owned verses cloud service then please give us a call and we will be happy to come out and provide you with a free consultancy session to discuss your needs and propose suitable options.