Focus On Cloud Computing: Received Ideas

The Cloud is a trend. The cloud does not protect data. The cloud is too expensive. The list could be long. There are many prejudices about Cloud Computing. However, more and more companies are opting for this IT solution. Here are some received ideas.

1. The Cloud Is Not Secure

This is a regular brake on the adoption of cloud services. Since data security is at the heart of companies’ concerns, they place a lot of importance on the storage provided. Indeed, the reputation of a company and the satisfaction of its customers are generally two essential elements. Do you think storing data internally is more secure than storing it in the cloud? Contrary to what one might think, companies can be faced with various dangers, including computer disasters, theft, network bugs or even material damage (water or fire damage, for example).

Thus, cloud solutions can step in and be of great help. In addition to network security (firewalls, intrusion protection systems, etc.) and application security (detection of system flaws), Cloud providers also cover physical data protection (against fire, smoke, intrusions, etc.). ), thanks to a highly secure environment within a data center: access by biometrics, fire protection systems, surveillance cameras, etc.

Your cloud provider should be transparent about where your data is stored. You must have all the necessary information regarding encryption, backup, redundancy etc. It is therefore essential to gather as much information as possible. 

2. The Cloud Is Dedicated Only To Large Companies

This is of course a received idea. The Cloud allows VSEs and SMEs to benefit from high-end IT solutions and professional services. The multitude of offers on the market allows each company to find the one that best suits its needs. Some Cloud providers offer solutions dedicated to small structures, sometimes even to independents. You can also opt for a supplier offering several service lines. Whether you are a small business or a large one, you should find what you are looking for! 

3. If We Opt For The Cloud, We Lose The Investments Already Made

Subscribing to a Cloud Computing service does not mean that all the investments you have made in your infrastructure are wasted. Some data may be stored internally, on your own servers (archived data which you access only very rarely, for example). The other data can be available on a Cloud platform, to bring you flexibility, collaboration, security…

4. I am No Longer In Control Of My Data

This is again a received idea. Your data is no longer stored within your servers but in the Cloud (therefore in other servers). Some companies therefore fear that once their data has been transferred to the cloud, they will no longer be able to retrieve it and have access to it. Find out beforehand how the cloud provider works. Can the data be imported/exported on physical media (external hard drives for example)? Are APIs offered? Are the data reversible? Is there the possibility to access event logs? What is the deadline for deleting data at the end of the contract?

5. Cloud Computing Is Too Expensive

Some companies compare the investments required between developing an in-house solution and developing a Cloud solution. Generally, only the material costs are taken into account (the purchase of a NAS is quickly amortized, while the subscription to a Cloud solution is generally done by monthly subscription). However, it is important to also consider the salaries and human time required to manage an in-house infrastructure. Indeed, a person will have to take care of the installation and maintenance of an internal server. The same goes for the development of software or applications. In addition, a Cloud provider who generally has many customers can offer attractive prices depending on several parameters: the number of users, storage space, pricing conditions (monthly, annual etc.). Some solutions also offer discounts depending on the sector of activity (for associations for example). 

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