Like any new technology or technologic solution, cloud computing has been equally hyped and reviled, to the point where a novice to the field, seeking to find accurate information on the cloud’s benefits and disadvantages, will have a very hard time making sense of the information.
Obviously, the cloud is not something that can be simplified into one-line assertions. It is a complex system, prepared to respond to specific IT infrastructure and general business needs.
Like all systems, it, too, is fallible and will continue to evolve. Issues which have been addressed thus far, like security, reliance and cost, will continue to be explored and developed upon, to the point where they become less problematic than they are at the moment.
However, let us explore the top five myths about the cloud, and see which ones are true, and which ones less so.
1. The Best Thing About Cloud Computing is the Fact That It’s Cheap
Obviously, there is no denying the fact that cloud computing will take a significantly smaller tool on your company’s budget. However, there are other factors you need to take into account, when deciding whether or not to implement a cloud system.
Beyond low costs, there are also issues about agility, scalability, the time span required to reach your market and the quick access to a good infrastructure system. One of the best, if not the top thing about the cloud is how quickly you can get a business off the ground thanks to it.
The scale computing power offered by the cloud, able to handle peak loads with precision and speed, is something many organizations could not otherwise afford—and that is perhaps the main advantage about the cloud.
2. The Cloud Is not Safe
Public cloud computing systems are usually large entities, with complex economics at work behind them, which automatically renders them multi-tenant. In turn, this causes security to be a common concern. However, consider your traditional network, most often secured by a firewall.
The cloud is protected by a security perimeter which both hypervises and underlies the applications running on the cloud system. No major issues have been reported on a global scale thus far, although it is true that cloud systems need to be well designed and rigorous in their prioritization of security, in order to work.
When in doubt, the best tip would be to consult with your providers about technical, operational and control security issues, and clarify any concerns you have. If a public cloud doesn’t sound like a secure enough solution, implement the alternative: an on-premise cloud, a virtual private cloud, or a hybrid cloud system.
3. The Cloud Is the Most Simple System Available
In truth, cloud computing is still computing. And what this entails is a virtualization and overall implementation process of moving data and systems from in-house servers to the cloud.
Bear in mind that this process cannot be “turnkey”, as some solution providers will rush to assure you. It does entail a period of moving, customization and testing (usually followed by troubleshooting) which can last for months. Another issue here is that of subsequent changes in configuration and customization.
Cloud systems can be delicate, and later changes will likely cause issues and stress and thats why you should be careful when looking for cloud computing services.