These days more and more businesses are choosing to forgo expensive and antiquated computer systems and move instead to innovative cloud technology. In past articles we’ve gone over exactly what cloud technology is, as well as how it can help your small business. Now it’s time to take it a step further and delve into the three main implementation models of cloud technology, what they are, and what they may mean for your business. That way if you’re considering migrating to a more modern virtual office environment, you’ll have the knowledge to make an informed decision as to which model is right for you.

Public Cloud

The public cloud provides an external location where you can store large amounts of data. The benefit of the public cloud model is that it is cost-effective – some public cloud services offer a certain amount of storage for free, and anything you use above and beyond that you pay for, but only for the amount you need. The word “public” makes many small business owners wary because it implies a certain lack of security, but this is actually a misconception. In fact, public cloud storage is generally more secure than personal data storage because providers specialize in data security, making them less vulnerable to hackers. Additionally, because all data is ready and safe whenever you need to access it, and from wherever you are able to connect to the internet, public cloud technology is convenient and flexible. 

Private Cloud

The private cloud, sometimes called the internal or corporate cloud, is the perfect business solution for managing sensitive data, such as client information or trade secrets. It offers similar flexibility as the public cloud, but because the business owns or at least controls the cloud facility, there is an added level of protection. A private cloud facility doesn’t necessarily have to be a part of the physical business, but it is typically secured by the company’s firewall. The private cloud provides delivery and access to servers, storage and applications, whenever and wherever they are needed, and can be scaled up or down based on business needs.

Hybrid Cloud

Ah, there’s always a happy medium, right? Many businesses need the security of a private cloud, but also want the affordability that comes with the public cloud. Hence, the hybrid cloud, a combination of both models. All of the business’s sensitive data can be securely stored on a private cloud, while other information and data that is less critical can be maintained with a more cost-effective public cloud service. There is also the option of a virtual private cloud, which provides the safety and security of a private cloud, but on a public cloud platform. With a virtual private cloud, the business owner essentially pays a public cloud service provider to use a private cloud system that is located within their facility. Hybrid cloud services provide the best of both worlds in terms of security, flexibility and affordability.

Like it or not, cloud technology is here to stay, and professionals everywhere are starting to jump on the bandwagon. In fact, a recent poll conducted by CIO revealed that a whopping 92% of the CIO’s and IT professionals surveyed believe that cloud technology is good for business. 67% of those surveyed also felt that cloud technology helps deliver better systems for less money, which is music to the ears of business owners everywhere! If you’re ready to take the leap and see for yourself what the cloud can do for your business, give us a shout. We can help you get started!