Have you ever wondered what a cloud-based solution is and how it works? Nowadays, terms and phrases like “cloud-based solutions” and “on the cloud” are becoming increasingly common. However, many still feel unsure about this since cloud-based solutions are still a relatively new concept.

With this thought in mind, today, we’re looking at some of the key things you need to know about cloud-based solutions, including what they are, how they work, and why businesses are switching to cloud technology overall.

What is a Cloud-Based Solution?

The vast majority of us have heard about cloud computing in this day and age. However, just because we have a vague understanding that cloud computing exists doesn’t necessarily mean that we understand a cloud-based solution, which is very important to consider.

A cloud-based solution, at its most basic, is a form of online service that’s provided via the Internet. Most commonly, the term “cloud-based solution” is used to describe a service that delivers IT resources and the like – however, this can actually extend to many different services, such as data storage (e.g., saving a Word document on the cloud) and the like.

As such, a cloud-based solution provides a rapid delivery of internet-based computer services directly to your device. Unlike traditional solutions, this means that cloud-based solutions can provide several substantial perks, including greater flexibility and scalability.

How Do Cloud-Based Solutions Work?

It’s easy to say that cloud-based solutions provide online services, but how does this actually work? Well, without getting too technical, cloud-based solutions are based on data centers, which effectively “replace” traditional forms of data storage.

It’s perhaps easiest to think of these like large filing cabinets – but instead of processing and storing hard copies of information (e.g., a file), these data centers are instead responsible for storing digital data. The data center does so in a secure, protected, and well-protected manner to reduce the risk of issues arising.

Cloud-based solutions work in many different ways, and this can strongly influence the type of service or solution you receive. Some of the most common types of cloud-based solutions include software as a service, platforms as a service, infrastructure as a service, and so on.

SaaS is undeniably the most widely used form of cloud service in this regard, with IaaS systems coming not too far behind. These are usually based on numerous different cloud networks, which can be either private or public in nature (or a mixture of the two).

SaaS

Software as a service is one of the most common forms of cloud-based solutions since it’s the type of service that many people have invested in for their own businesses. With software as a service solutions, your business uses specialist software that has already been hosted on the cloud network. This software is often readily accessible and very easy to use and harness for your business, accordingly.

PaaS

Another common option you could consider for your business is platform as a service. Platform as a service models are much more niche than regular SaaS models, but these focus on developing a new platform or application for the business in question. This allows the business to invest in exciting new software and systems without requiring its own dedicated cloud-based infrastructure.

IaaS

Infrastructure as a service takes things one step further. These solutions are designed to allow businesses to develop their own infrastructure from which to run systems and software.

Usually, IaaS solutions are limited to large businesses and corporations due to the cost involved with owning a dedicated cloud infrastructure. However, for businesses with a great enough scale, the additional security is often well worth the additional investment.

Private, Public, and Hybrid Clouds

Private, public, and hybrid clouds are all other examples of common cloud systems. As the name would largely suggest, private cloud systems are exclusive to that business only, and they are commonly reserved for businesses requiring a large amount of computing power and large data storage solutions.

By contrast, for the majority of individual and business cloud users, this may be far more than they would need. In such scenarios, a public cloud may be much more effective, offering a value for money solution that provides just the right amount of data storage space and power without costing the business more than it could afford. SaaS, IaaS, and PaaS systems are usually all based on public cloud types.

Finally, there is the hybrid cloud. Unsurprisingly, this offers a little of everything; they mix private and public cloud computing approaches and are much more flexible, making them good for businesses that may have frequently changing budgets and/or requirements.

Why are Businesses Switching to Cloud-Based Solutions?

When it comes to business management, staying ahead of the game is critical to success. As such, it shouldn’t come as a major surprise that so many businesses have made the switch to cloud-based solutions, too. But why is this? What incentivises businesses to change to cloud-based solutions? Well, the benefits that cloud-based solutions can provide are numerous, and this is important to keep in mind as part of your choice.

–          Cloud solutions are often incredibly affordable, making them great options for businesses looking to manage a tighter budget

–          With professional cloud-based solutions, businesses can access the information they need on the go and from multiple devices

–          With expert cloud-based solutions, businesses often enjoy much faster and simpler data management – making it easier to find the information that’s needed

–          Cloud solutions are designed with security in mind. As such, businesses requiring incredibly secure solutions may choose cloud-based options.

Final Thoughts

Without a doubt, cloud-based technology solutions are becoming ever more popular as time goes by. In line with this, if you need further guidance, advice, or support for implementing cloud solutions to your business operations, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team at CTG today. We’re here to help you find the ideal new opportunities, no matter what they might look like.

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