What Are the Advantages of Cloud Storage?

Companies from all industries are increasingly relying on the cloud to store data. Others are moving their entire software infrastructure to benefit from the advantages of cloud storage in a big way. A recent IDG survey involving more than 550 IT professionals revealed that the majority (59 percent) of organizations are planning on being mostly or all in the cloud within a year. Only 38 percent were at this point midway through 2020.

That’s a massive shift in a short amount of time. Whether your organization is already relying on cloud storage providers or you’re new to the game, there are huge opportunities for businesses that turn to the cloud. Let’s look at how it works and the ways your organization can gain from using cloud storage.

How Cloud Storage Works

With cloud storage, files are sent to a data server managed by your cloud storage provider. This process usually happens automatically. You can access those files from any device as long as you have an Internet connection.

This is different from storing data and applications on your on-premises servers. Data is located off-site, so you don’t have to worry about losing files or a lapse in business operations because of a power outage, fire, or another disaster that impacts your business’s physical location. Also, you don’t have to invest in, manage, and maintain physical servers to store data – your cloud provider handles these tasks.

One thing to keep in mind – cloud storage on its own doesn’t guarantee business continuity. Cloud storage simply refers to storing data. If you have to send your files to the cloud manually, or if files are sent at intervals rather than automatically, you could lose valuable data in the event of a disaster. If you want real-time protection, you’ll also want to work with a provider that offers cloud backup. This service includes ongoing backups and syncing services, so you always have access to your most recent files.

Key Advantages of Cloud Storage for Businesses

Cloud storage offers several business benefits.

Enables remote work

With the cloud, employees can work from wherever because they can access all files and business apps stored in the cloud without being in the office. This capability boosts flexibility, something we’ve all learned the importance of during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lowers IT costs

Before cloud storage became the norm, enterprises had to build out hardware as IT needs grew. The problem with this model is runaway costs – companies would have to be able to dedicate spend to hardware, software, and IT staff to manage an expanding infrastructure. With the cloud, some of these costs are shouldered by your provider. You’ll still need an IT team, but you won’t have to maintain as large an IT budget as you would with a fully on-premises model.

Enhances data security

As long as your cloud solutions provider uses advanced security measures and file encryption, cloud storage is likely a better option than storing data on in-house servers. With cloud storage, files are backed up on multiple servers. Chances are, your cloud provider also has more safeguards in place than your business does. This can help prevent data loss, downtime, and damage to your business’s reputation.

The cloud is scalable

Another useful advantage the cloud offers is scalability. With most cloud services, you pay for what you use. As your organization grows, you simply add users to your service or expand your cloud storage space – there’s no need to invest in new hardware or worry about predicting what you’ll need ahead of time. Likewise, if your needs decrease, simply cut back your service and reduce your costs accordingly.

Why the Cloud Is More Important Than Ever in 2021

During the pandemic, businesses discovered how vital cloud storage is. It has allowed teams to work from home without sacrificing productivity. With cloud services, organizations are more agile – they’re ready for whatever challenges the future brings.

This is why the cloud will continue to be a major priority for businesses of all sizes, with many expanding their reliance on the cloud as time goes on. If you want to learn more about the advantages cloud storage offers and what tools are available today to enable businesses to thrive, be sure to follow the Intermedia Blog for expert insights on cloud technology.

The Intermedia Team

Intermedia helps businesses of all sizes connect better – through voice, video conferencing, chat, contact center, business email and productivity, file sharing and backup, security, archiving, and more – from wherever, whenever. And, as a partner-first company, Intermedia goes to work for our channel partners to help them grow their revenue and maximize their success.