Cloud computing is more popular than ever and its use is spreading to companies of all sizes and types. In the upcoming years, this trend is expected to grow and develop, and for good reasons. Cloud computing is beneficial in many ways, but with more connections online come more risks. Below we discuss cloud computing pros and cons for businesses of all sizes, and how to keep your company safe.

Cloud Computing Pro #1: Cost Efficiency

Cloud computing is by far the most cost efficient method to use, maintain and upgrade. Companies have to spend a lot of money on traditional desktop software as well as the licensing fees for multiple users. This can really add up, especially for smaller businesses. Cloud computing has its own costs, which are generally paid on a monthly basis in relation to your company’s needs. Cloud computing ends up being a fraction of the cost of buying new software because most of the work is actually being done in the cloud, leaving little for your device to have to store or manage.

Cloud Computing Pro #2: Easy Access to Information

With cloud computing, you can access the company’s information from anywhere with an Internet connection once you are registered. This allows employees to work remotely with more flexibility and cuts down on travel costs. Your business will also become more efficient as employees have many options when it comes to devices to work from, such as laptops, desktops, tablets, and smartphones.

Cloud Computing Pro #3: Scalability

Cloud computing gives companies the ability to remove associated computer costs quickly when the number of employees decreases. This is especially relevant with project-based or seasonal employees. Conversely, cloud computing lets your company preconfigure the cloud to be setup so new employees can be added immediately and avoid the more costly, time-consuming method of configuring that would take hours of setup.

Cloud Computing Pro #4: Easy Online Collaboration and Document Sharing

Cloud computing allows for shared sites where documents are easily accessible, saving precious time trying to locate them and wasting hard drive space for storage. Eliminate redundant emails and confusion about which document is the final draft with cloud computing.

Cloud Computing Con #1: Security Risks

The main issue that companies face with cloud computing is security risks. With so much sensitive data stored online, a breach can reveal information like customer credit card numbers, bank account numbers, and personal email addresses. If you are looking to start with cloud computing, a hosted service provider can offer 24/7 monitoring of your system to give you extra protection.

Cloud Computing Con #2: Technical Issues

While it is easy to access data in the cloud from any place with an Internet connection at any time, there are times when you will encounter technical issues, like an outage. No matter how good your cloud service provider is, they will all occasionally run into this type of trouble. However, the best service providers will have you back up and running quicker than those that are mediocre.

While nothing is 100% foolproof, we believe that cloud computing can be the best choice for the growth and success of your business. Contact us today and we’ll get you started with the best cloud computing solution for your company!