Cracking the Enigma of Cloud Computing

One of the most frequent questions tech industry insiders get from those working outside of the industry is “What is the cloud?” It remains an enigma to many people across the world. Even some within the tech industry are unsure of how exactly to define the cloud. In essence, cloud computing uses a network of Internet-based servers to store, manage, and process data. This practice is vastly different from the traditional use of local servers and personal computer hard drives.

Data storage started from humble beginnings but is now being revolutionized by cloud technology. There has been a relatively recent shift from physical data centers to cloud-based computing, which has become an integral part of nearly every organization’s business model. The technology has even proliferated to the consumer market with people utilizing the cloud for their own personal computing. Because of its widespread use, it is crucial for consumers and businesses alike to possess an accurate understanding of the cloud.

Much of how we understand the world is through visual representation. The cloud might be difficult to conceptualize for many people because it has no physical representation. A simple way to think of the cloud is to relate it to the concept of the Internet, which is not a physical entity but is made up of physical components like modems, cellular towers, and cables. The cloud is similar to the Internet in that way. Its physical components are devices, servers, and internet infrastructure.

The cloud utilizes the Internet to provide online services and to store data[1]. As mentioned, it allows users to connect to a network of remote servers to store and access data and programs over the Internet. Most, if not all, of the major social media platforms utilize the cloud, and more specifically, cloud storage services. Big players, like Instagram and Facebook, employ the cloud to store user information on a network that is accessible from multiple entry points. This essentially means that when someone posts a photo to a social media platform, they are uploading that photo to the cloud[2].

Intuitively, one would think that a physical means of storage would be more secure than storing data via the Internet. However, the cloud offers an array of advantages that make it a secure and dynamic method of storage. Data encryption is a key tool used by cloud service providers to secure data[3]. Encryption makes it significantly more difficult for anyone who gains unauthorized access to interpret your data. Cloud providers also invest heavily in security measures; often much more than an individual firm would be able to invest into cybersecurity for data storage[2].

As technology becomes more advanced, so too do cyber-threats. One of the advantages of the cloud is its adaptability. With each passing year, it becomes more sophisticated. Organizations would be remiss not to take advantage of the cloud’s benefits and potential.

Wilson Consulting group (WCG) can devise a secure and tailored transition plan to help your organization move to the cloud. WCG implements a set of control-based technologies and policies designed to maintain data security. The cloud is one of the most secure storage options when it is adapted to meet a firm’s individual security needs. We provide our clients with the most secure and seamless transition to the cloud that the industry offers.

WCG will do a strenuous assessment to find the right cloud provider for your organization’s needs. We also employ industry experts who will ensure that your organization meets all of the compliance and regulatory mandates.

There is no magic wand that miraculously transitions a business to the cloud. Businesses must take a prudent approach by employing industry experts who have extensive experience in cloud computing transition, compliance, and security. The ability to adapt and change with the times is a key factor in any firm’s long-term success. Cloud technology is constantly evolving by incorporating the latest advancements in computer science.

Simply put, adopting cloud technology gives an organization the upper hand by tapping into the latest and most advanced computing capabilities.

[1]https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/26/business/microsoft-q4-earnings.html?rref=collection%2Fsectioncollection%2Ftechnology&_r=0

[2]http://mashable.com/2013/08/26/what-is-the-cloud/#kQRm5H0fdgqZ

[3]http://www.forbes.com/sites/joemckendrick/2017/01/22/cloud-computing-spins-out-of-control-but-maybe-thats-not-such-a-bad-thing/#54f3dbc74774