If you use a computer to conduct business, then you’ve probably heard of cloud hosting. Also called “cloud computing,” cloud hosting is a digital network that lets business owners save their files, computer applications, and other resources on a remote server.
The most obvious advantage of cloud hosting is that you can access your data from any Internet-enabled device. Other benefits include:
- Project teams can collaborate in real-time using the same files and computer applications;
- Cloud storage tends to be cheaper than buying several high-end hard drives;
- And if your computer or hard drive gets destroyed or stolen, you will still have access to the data you saved on the cloud.
Depending on how you intend to use the cloud, migrating to cloud hosting is relatively easy. However, some business owners make mistakes that cost money, prevent them from taking full advantage of the cloud, or worst of all, cause them to lose their data.
Here are four mistakes to avoid if you plan to migrate to cloud computing:
Mistake #1: Choosing the wrong cloud hosting service provider
It is critical that you choose a reputable cloud hosting service provider. Before you transfer all of your files to a remote server, read online reviews to find out if past customers have lost their data.
The demand for cloud computing has motivated plenty of fly-by-night entrepreneurs to offer inexpensive cloud hosting. But if your provider doesn’t back up your data and something happens to the server, you could wind up losing your saved resources.
Ask your cloud hosting provider if it backs up its servers – and how many backups there will be of your work.
You should also find out if your data will be encrypted when you upload or download it from the cloud. The most secure hosting providers require that the browser or app you use to access the cloud has an encrypted connection before you can download or upload content. Look at the padlock next to the URL to confirm that is says “https://”.
Another important question is, “Will my data be encrypted?” You can probably find out by reading the hosting provider’s terms of service. You should not store sensitive content on the could unless it is encrypted.
Mistake #2: Not taking full advantage of cloud hosting
The cloud is a versatile system, but many business owners fail to take full advantage of its benefits. Cloud hosting can help you save time and reduce expenses by optimizing your business processes.
If you choose a reputable cloud hosting provider, then you won’t have to back up content you save on the cloud. So be sure to transition every possible digital resource to the cloud to minimize your storage backup responsibilities.
If you work from both your home and office, then you don’t constantly need to transfer data from one computer to the next. Your content will be readily accessible on the cloud using any Internet-enabled device.
Also, keep in mind that you can give clients and employees access to select files and applications on your cloud server. This offers a range of benefits – for example, employees can collaborate in real-time, and clients can monitor the progress of digital projects.
Mistake #3: Underestimating the amount of bandwidth you need
If you don’t purchase enough bandwidth, then your applications will run slower. Fortunately, cloud storage is cheap, and you can scale your bandwidth up or down depending on your specific needs. If you really want to cut costs, then you can compress files and use data deduplication, which eliminates redundant data.
Mistake #4: Not making a full transition to cloud hosting
Many business owners are reluctant to abandon their tried and tested business processes. It’s not easy to trust a third party hosting provider with your sensitive data, but if you do your research and ask the right questions – as outlined in “Mistake #1” – then your digital resources will be secure.
Whether you manage dozens of employees, run a brick-and-mortar store, or work as a freelancer, you could probably improve efficiency and reduce your expenses by migrating to cloud hosting. Be sure to avoid these four mistakes, and you’ll be able to enjoy the many benefits of cloud computing.
