The “Cloud” is a common term in business. Some swear by it, while others prefer to stick with their own company’s hardware. Why switch to working in a Cloud and what are its advantages and disadvantages? A “Cloud” is an online environment where all files are stored. The physical data is stored in one of the provider’s servers, such as Google and Microsoft.
There are a lot of advantages to storing data in the cloud. For example, you can increase your storage space on demand, so you never have to worry about reaching your server’s limit. Another advantage is the accessibility. You can work whenever and wherever you want, as long as you have an Internet connection. This is not even limited to which device you use. This easy way of sharing data makes for a more dynamic workplace, where there can be faster consultation within your company. There is a lower risk of data loss than with an in-house system. There is also a backup available, so you can always go back to an earlier version of your documents if something goes wrong. The latest versions of the Cloud with the best storage and features are simple to get through updates.
All these benefits sound super, of course, but there’s always a catch. As often mentioned, the Cloud can be found on the Internet. This means that you also need a good working Internet connection to access the Cloud. Many files fit on the Cloud, there is enough storage space. The downside is that the files do need to get on the Cloud. With large files, it often takes a lot of time to actually get them on there. Uploading files is often slower with a poor Internet connection or if there are too many people on the server. Another, perhaps annoying, detail is dependence on partners. If you have hired a partner for your Cloud management, you are dependent on them. Suppose they stop managing Cloud, you lose your workplace immediately. In addition, it is difficult to switch because the Cloud of different providers do not easily work together. This makes it difficult to transfer data from one to another.
Interesting article! I personally am a fan of cloud solutions. Most people use cloud storage without even realising it (iCloud, Google photos, even just collaborating on Google docs utilises cloud storage). However, there are instances where the cons you mentioned beat the numerous pros. I great example of cloud solutions being to early to the market and the cons outweighing the pros is Google Stadia. It will be interesting to see when or if cloud capabilities become the mainstream – the everyday person’s computer is a screen with an internet connection and all the hardware capabilities are on a server.
Nice article, personally I am a big fan of the cloud. As you mention, it is improving accessibility insanely. However, I was wondering if you have thought about where all that data is stored. A great example is the building in Amsterdam that has been created to store only data. We are not talking about a small building here, but a building with multiple floors. Another relevant example is the data centre of Facebook, which was almost based in the Netherlands. In your article, you mention the fact that the cloud could improve storage space, but maybe it could be the case that the only difference is, that you are just saving it somewhere else. Have you thought about this point of view? It could maybe change the way we look at saving things in the cloud.
Nice article, personally I am a big fan of the cloud. As you mention, it is improving accessibility insanely. However, I was wondering if you have thought about where all that data is stored. A great example is the building in Amsterdam that has been created to store only data. We are not talking about a small building here, but a building with multiple floors. Another relevant example is the data centre of Facebook, which was almost based in the Netherlands. In your article, you mention the fact that the cloud could improve storage space, but maybe it could be the case that the only difference is, that you are just saving it somewhere else. Have you thought about this point of view? It could maybe change the way we look at saving things in the cloud.