Tag Archives: private cloud

Migrating to the Cloud with Confidence

Cloud ComputingMore and more companies are migrating to Cloud Computing to gain competitive advantage and reduce capital expense. According to CompTIA’s 9th annual Security Trends study, companies reported over 80% net usage of Cloud Computing. Over 59% reported moderate or heavy usage. What’s more, the survey found that 68% reported confidence in Cloud providers’ ability to provide a Secure Cloud Environment. An additional 17% responded they were very confident in the security of their Cloud environment. Let’s explore what drives confidence in the Cloud.

How to Assess Cloud Provider Security

There are many variables to consider when evaluating security of a Cloud Provider. According to the study, many companies evaluate their Cloud provider based on encryption–when moving data to the Cloud, it should be encrypted at rest and in transit. In addition, companies should consider the disaster recovery plans of their Cloud Provider. Some Cloud Providers adopt industry standards including SAS 70 to provide consistent, compliant cloud security. Industry standards are often used to evaluate a Cloud Provider. Identity and access management are also criteria for evaluating a Cloud Provider. Many companies also consider geographical location(s) of the Cloud Provider’s data center.  

Consider your Compliance Requirements

Many industries have specific requirements regarding handling data. For example, PCI provides guidelines for how companies handle credit card information. Healthcare, Financial Services and Governments (or companies doing business with Government) also have compliance requirements for handling data. Understanding your requirements is key to ensuring you migrate to the Cloud with confidence. Some data may require implementation of a private cloud environment. Also, a Private Cloud has additional security benefits, being a Cloud environment dedicated to a specific company.

Use the Cloud Responsibly

One of the many benefits of Cloud Computing is ease of deployment. Many Software as a Service (SaaS) applications make it easy for a department within a company to migrate to the Cloud without technical assistance. This technology adoption is known as “Rogue IT.” Having a better understanding of Cloud Security and risk helps your business leaders make smart decisions when it comes to migrating to the Cloud.

If you are migrating to the Cloud or have concerns over your Cloud Security, contact your technology advisor to find out how to migrate to the Cloud with Confidence.

Considerations for Cloud Migration

Advantages of Moving to CloudThe market for Cloud Computing is maturing. According to Trends in Cloud Computing, a recent research report by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), 90 percent claim using some form of Cloud Computing. In fact, the report provides insights that 43 percent of the Companies using Cloud Computing are migrating from one Public Cloud Provider to another for a variety of reasons including security, cost and open standards. Here are a few considerations for Cloud migration gleaned from the report.

Cloud Application Usage

Many companies turn to the Cloud for applications including business productivity, Email, Analytics/BI, and Collaboration Applications. Other applications of Cloud technology include Virtual Desktop, CRM, Call Center and Voice Applications. When you migrate to Cloud from “on- premise” applications your business will gain a variety of benefits, provided you consider network security and performance in your planning. Without these migration considerations you may not achieve the full benefit of your Cloud Migration.

 

Benefiting from Cloud Computing

Cloud Services offer a range of benefits. Cloud Computing may offer the ability to cut costs, reducing capital expenditures and operating complexity. In some cases, cloud offers simplicity or speed of deployment. You may also benefit from modernizing your legacy IT environments. Some companies turn to the Cloud for new software licensing and upgrade models, favoring the predictable pricing of Cloud subscription models over the up-front costs of a “on-premise” deployment. Cloud Computing can also offer your business new capabilities and features not available in on-premise versions of your favorite applications. Many companies report that Cloud solutions are simply a better option.

Challenges of Cloud Migration

The majority of companies find it requires little effort to move from an experimental stage of Cloud Usage to Non-critical use. An example might be a departmental pilot for a productivity application going live and into a production environment within the department. Taking an application to full production may require moderate to significant effort. An example is a company-wide rollout of a communications and collaboration platform. In the rollout of a company-wide application that replaces existing infrastructure, proper planning along with expert guidance can make the difference in the ultimate outcome of your Cloud Migration.

If you are considering migrating to the Cloud, why go it alone? Contact your technology advisor to ensure you navigate the challenges of your Cloud Migration.

 

Tackling Cloud Security

Tackling Cloud SecuritySecurity is always top of mind with businesses migrating to the Cloud. Cloud Services are rapidly being adopted by most businesses today. According to IDC, the worldwide public cloud services market reached $45.7 billion in 2013 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23% through 2018. Cloud Security is an important consideration for businesses migrating to the Cloud. So, what are the top security concerns businesses face?

Top Cloud Security Concerns

CompTIA’s Ninth Annual Information Security Trends study identified system downtime/business interruptions, exposure or loss of data during file transfers to the cloud, and concerns over encryption of data (either transactional or at rest) as the top three issues identified by business owners and IT Professionals. In addition, respondents raised concern over complying with legal/regulatory requirements. What can a business owner do to migrate securely to the Cloud?

Cloud Security and Compliance

Most experts agree, start by understanding your Cloud Security requirements. If you have regulatory requirements, a Private Cloud solution may make it easier to comply with standards including HIPAA and PCI. However, this doesn’t mean you are more secure. Beyond encryption, having a solid strategy for using the technology in your organization is a key factor in Cloud Security.

Employees: Key to Tackling Cloud Security

Your employees may be your biggest threat to Cloud Security. Without the proper training, your employees may access your company’s Cloud Services from unsecure devices. This could cause security breaches and data leaks of privacy information. What’s more, it is important to control the adoption of Cloud Services within your business to help mitigate Cloud Security risks. Proper policy, training, and guidelines create awareness and educate your employees about Cloud Security Risks.

Other Cloud Security Factors

IoT (Internet of Things) presents a new risk to Cloud Security. Smart devices including TVs, appliances, office equipment, and other devices that collect and transmit data across the Internet, can cause exposure to your overall security. Research firm Gartner predicts that the IoT market will grow to 26 billion units installed by 2020. Proper network security and encryption is a first step in reducing this emerging security risk.

Migrating to Cloud Services provides many benefits to business of all sizes. Making the leap to Cloud Computing can be done securely with the proper planning & guidance. Reach out to your technology solution advisor to get help tackling Cloud Security.

Moving to the Cloud: The Advantages

Advantages of Moving to CloudAccording to the International Data Corporation (IDC), total public IT Cloud services (SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS) spending will reach $127 billion in 2018. Compared to the 4.1% compound annual growth rate the IT market will experience from 2013-2018, the public Cloud will grow at a 22.8% compound annual growth rate. That’s five and a half times more than the total IT market spending! The Cloud is unquestionably the most significant trend ever to hit the IT industry. Understanding these figures warrants a thorough review of the advantages associated with moving your organization to the Cloud.

Cost Savings

The prime advantage of Cloud computing is the ability to pay for what’s being used instead of being compelled to pay for unused services. It’s just smart business sense to cut out unnecessary spending. Large Cloud providers are able to offer more computing power at a lower cost, as they benefit from huge economies from scale. Just make sure Cloud services are not over-provisioned, and only use what you need.

Advantages of Both Public and Private Models

Organizations have a lot of options when it comes to Cloud models, but most people are confused about the difference between the public and private model. Public Cloud services are designed for a market and not a single enterprise. It is open to all potential users and is shared among unrelated consumers, while private Cloud services are shared within an enterprise but have restrictions on access. These Cloud services can be either onsite or offsite and can be managed by either a third party or in-house staff. There are advantages to both models. The public Cloud model offers a pay-per-use model, the speed of access to resources, and the flexibility to add and drop capacity. On the other hand, the private Cloud model offers the highest levels of management visibility, control, security, privacy, and proximity to physical data.

Speed and Flexibility

Speed is perhaps the greatest reason to move to the Cloud. While time to implement services can take weeks, a company can use its Cloud provider to get services up and running within a matter of hours. Long gone are the days of waiting months for an IT department to order and configure a new server; a virtual one can be delivered almost instantly. In addition, the Cloud offers amazing flexibility for you and your employees. Employees can now access company data from a variety of devices and a variety of locations.

Many small to medium sized businesses are migrating to the Cloud because of the backups, better security, and the assurance that your company is always up to date without having to continually invest more time and money. If you are considering moving your business to the Cloud, contact your trusted IT advisor to get more helpful tips on migrating to the Cloud.

The Cloud: The 3rd Platform of Computing

3rd-PlatformAround 2008, the IT industry started to experience a massive shift in traditional computing. The International Data Corporation (IDC) began referring to this change as the “3rd platform.” The 3rd platform is built on the four technology pillars for innovation and growth: Cloud, mobile, big data, and social technologies. Within this new era of technology, the Cloud is surely the biggest game changer, because it changes the way companies consume and pay for access to technology. Businesses large and small can now solve problems with the Cloud that were unsolvable before. Cloud technologies have become ubiquitous in business; this is why it is critical to understand what the Cloud is and comprehend its future growth.

Models for Cloud Services: Public and Private

Many people are confused about the difference between public and private Cloud models and what the best option is for their organization. Public Cloud services are designed for a market and not a single enterprise. It is open to all potential users and is shared among unrelated consumers. On the other hand, private Cloud services are shared within an enterprise but have restrictions on access. These Cloud services can be either onsite or offsite and can be managed by either a third party or in-house staff.

Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

These three main Cloud solutions can leverage your IT business substantially. SaaS provides a way to deliver software and technical services that would otherwise be managed on premise. Most small businesses can adopt Cloud computing into their company using only SaaS services for email, sales force automation, accounting and more. PaaS allows businesses to create custom applications, databases, and other business services – all integrated into one platform. And, IaaS allows businesses to purchase infrastructure from providers as virtual resources.

Understanding the Future of the Cloud

Cloud services are a crucial component of the massive shift in IT and its applications. IT experts expect Cloud services to be positively impacted by breakthroughs in the other 3rd platform applications: mobile, big data, and social technologies. Major breakthroughs in these areas will require major investments in Cloud technologies and services. Therefore, those adopting Cloud solutions will continue to benefit from future innovations, which will boost return on investment.

There are several pros and cons to weigh before deciding which Cloud solution(s) to adopt. It is important for your organization to carefully create a roadmap for incorporating the Cloud into your IT infrastructure. If your business needs guidance in deciding which combination of Cloud solutions to adopt, contract your trusted Cloud advisor today.

Why the Cloud Isn’t Going Away

Cloud Computing is only beginning its growth and progression; more than half of all businesses have already implemented Cloud Computing in some way or another into their day-to-day operations. Whether you need improved security, lowered costs, higher efficiency, a backup plan, or a mixture of these benefits, the Cloud is the answer. There’s no pressure to migrate completely to the Cloud. In fact, if you already use applications like file sharing, website hosting or web based email you already rely on Cloud Computing. Smart IT strategy is researching which parts of the Cloud fit the needs of your business and discussing a flexible solution that can be customized to your organization – that’s why the Cloud already works for so many businesses. If you haven’t yet considered utilizing the Cloud, it’s time to decide if you want to keep up with the latest technology or be left behind. The Cloud is here to stay, and here’s why:

Cloud Computing is Reliable

The majority of companies trust the Cloud enough to make the migration. With the Cloud, companies have constant access to all the information they need, because they can access it from any computing device and from any location. This flexibility in itself makes the Cloud the most reliable solution. Also, with Cloud solutions, data can be backed up to multiple locations and services, which adds another level of protection. You can always add more levels of protection by choosing to use behavior-based key management servers and encryption management keys.

The Cloud is Affordable

Cloud computing is known to reduce IT management costs dramatically. Migrating to the Cloud may come with upfront costs, including installation costs, but in the long run, it will save your organization a lot of money. While using the Cloud, you are sharing resources, which eliminates the costs of making these purchases yourself. Most importantly, most Cloud providers offer pay-as-you-go plans that bills based on your usage. This is a clear-cut way for your organization to save money – only pay for what you need!

The Cloud is Secure

The Cloud not only protects from viruses and theft, but it also ensures recovery of your data. Since your information will be stored virtually and not on office devices or on a network, it cannot be harmed by physical disasters or other such emergencies. The Cloud actually gives you back control of your data. If your organization needs guidance on migrating to the Cloud, contact your trusted IT advisor today.

Technology Outlook for 2015

There are many things on our minds as we enter the New Year. For those of you running a business, a question on the forefront of your mind should be: What can we expect from the world of technology in the coming year? Because technology changes so fast these days, it’s important to be ahead of the game and be ready to adapt to changing times. Here is what to expect from the biggest technology trends in 2015:

Continued Need for Network Security

Mobile applications and mobile search adoption and usage continue to drive the need for network security. Smartphone and tablet shipments are expected to outpace traditional desktops during 2015.  With mobile devices on the rise, businesses need to ensure the security of these devices and prevent business networks from being compromised. Network security, endpoint protection, and other IT Security technologies will be a focus for 2015.

The End of Windows Server Support

Although Server 2003 currently accounts for about 20% of total Windows Server installations, on July 14, 2015, all Windows Server 2003 extended support will end. Therefore, companies transitioning from Windows 2003 in the coming year must be prepared for the move. Due to the end of Windows Server support, many small to medium sized businesses are migrating to the Cloud, which offers backups, better security, regulatory compliance, and the comfort of knowing that your company is always up to date without having to continually invest more time and money. Server migrations require a lot of planning and ample forethought, so make sure to do your research well before July 14.

Cloud Adoption on the Rise in 2015

The International Data Corporation estimates that worldwide spending on hosted private cloud services will exceed $24 billion by 2016. Cloud computing is now an essential ingredient of modern IT, so 2015 will continue to see an increase in businesses shifting their computing infrastructure to the Cloud due to the many benefits, including backups, better security, flexibility, and a simpler way to manage applications and data. Due to the dependence on the Cloud, there will also be a larger focus on Cloud security in 2015: Encryption policies, business continuity and disaster recovery capability, and data protection and data integrity.

Social, Mobile, Analytics, Cloud (aka SMAC)

According to many, we’re moving into a new “digital industrial revolution,” and 2015 will see the more integrated equalizer for small to medium sized businesses through the formula called Social, Mobile, Analytics, Cloud (SMAC) technology. Today’s customers and employees are expecting a new style of commerce that integrates these four elements, which provides the same anytime, anywhere, and any-device convenience they’re familiar with in their personal lives. Among the greatest advantages of SMAC technology for small businesses include the ability to break geographical boundaries, cost effective marketing solutions, and operation enhancement and better data gathering and processing. Most importantly, SMAC technology helps transform small businesses into one with the equal ability to grow its market share within the digital marketing environment.

Do You Fully Understand the Cloud?

In just the past few years, it has become evident that the topic of cloud computing has shifted from a potential game changer to an essential ingredient of modern IT. For those moving down the path of business transformation, the cloud is the primary driver. The International Data Corporation estimates the public cloud market to grow at 23% CAGR through 2018, and they estimate that worldwide spending on hosted private cloud services will exceed $24 billion by 2016. If your organization is not implementing the cloud, you’re already behind.

Just the Beginning

Even though adoption rates are high, there is still a lot of confusion related to cloud computing. 28% of survey respondents did not know whether their business used a private or public cloud model, which demonstrates the confusion over terminology or lack thereof. Previous eras of IT have lasted for over 20 years; so, after five years, the era of cloud computing is just getting started. CompTIA predicts the next decade will see cloud computing becoming even more accepted as a foundational building block.

Cloud Options

After these initial five years of cloud computing, the industry is no longer talking generally about the cloud market. Many companies are considering public cloud, private cloud, and hybrid cloud options.  Software as a Service, Infrastructure as a Service, and Platform as a Service change the way that businesses buy IT goods and services.

With many businesses shifting their computing infrastructure to the Cloud, companies continue to take advantage of the flexibility and simpler way of managing their applications and data.  If your organization needs guidance learning more about the cloud, contact your trusted IT advisor today.

 

Is Your Network Ready for Cloud Computing?

Cloud-based based computing adoption is increasing among many businesses.  According to the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) Annual trends in Cloud Computing study, 60% of business owners reported having 30% or more of their IT Systems in the cloud.  Additionally, research firm IDC predicts cloud-computing solutions to total $24 billion by 2016.

Why Cloud Computing?

CompTIA research reports that of those businesses adopting cloud technology, 49% have experienced the ability to cut costs. Popular uses of cloud-based applications include business productivity, cloud-based email, virtual desktop, HR management, and financial management.

Taking Advantage of Cloud Computing Cloud Computing Why Now?

Cloud Computing Growth and adoption is driven by a number of trends in IT, including affordable broadband, Internet, virtualization, and mobile computing.  Businesses find it easier than ever to reliably and securely connect to cloud-based infrastructure.  Cloud providers use virtualization to share computing resources, which helps keep costs down and aids in migration and upgrade of hardware platforms.  Mobile users expect cross-platform connection of smart phones and tablet computers to corporate applications and their data.  These factors combined add to the appeal of cloud computing

Cloud computing Deployment Scenarios

Most cloud-computing deployments use public-cloud, private-cloud and/or hybrid-cloud platforms.  Selecting the right cloud architecture depends on a number of factors, including industry and regulatory compliance requirements, integration with legacy applications, security, and other considerations.  It is equally important to consider your network reliability and availability to ensure a smooth of cloud computing.

Most industry analysts agree that cloud computing is here to stay.  Cloud computing is becoming an increasingly important component of IT infrastructure, and companies adopting cloud computing are deriving a variety of benefits.  To ensure a smooth transition to cloud-based computing, having a plan will ensure an easy, secure, and compliant migration to the cloud.  Consult your IT Service Consultant to get the most from your cloud-computing resources.

Cloud Computing Trends 2013: CompTIA 4th Annual Research Report

The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) is expected to release their fourth Annual Cloud Computing Trends research study this week.  This cloud computing research is based on a survey of over 500 IT and Business Professionals collected in June 2013.

The Fourth Annual CompTIA Cloud Computing Trends report is expected to reveal cloud computing trends and  buying patterns, benefits and challenges related to cloud computing use by businesses.  In addition, over 400 IT firms were surveyed on how the cloud is changing the IT technology channel.  Here are some anticipated highlights of cloud computing trends:

Cloud Computing Trends:  Cloud is an Increasing Component of IT Architecture

According to the research, 90% of companies are using cloud computing architecture in their business.  The research indicates “as cloud components are becoming more prevalent in IT architectures, more companies are relying on cloud computing for business processes such as storage (59%), business continuity/disaster recovery (48%), and security (44%).  This strong usage and strong market indicators show that cloud computing is becoming a default part of the IT landscape.”

Top Benefits of Cloud Computing

As Cloud Computing becomes more mainstream a range of business benefits are reported.  While no single reason stands out, businesses report a broad range of benefits by adopting cloud computing technologies:

Benefits of Cloud Computing

 

Top Cloud Computing SolutionsCloud Computing Reaches Maturity

The research indicates that more than half of  those delivering, managing, integrating and supporting cloud computing solutions feel their cloud computing businesses are mature and strategic.

 

Integration Remains the Top Cloud Computing Challenge

According to the cloud computing study by CompTIA, integration remains at the top of the list for all companies.  Integration of Software as a Service (SaaS) applications with legacy systems using Application Program Interfaces  (APIs) was reported as a challenge almost half the time.  Additionally, changes to IT Policy (40%) and the learning curve for the cloud model (39%) are also reported as challenges of moving IT systems to Cloud Computing.

This research report indicates as more companies rely on cloud computing models, the better equipped channel partners are becoming to support the many challenges related to implementing cloud computing.  Insights suggest partnering with a company with mature cloud expertise will help avoid many of the challenges of moving to the cloud, while maximizing a company’s ability to reap the benefits of cloud computing.