Cloud Computing: Where Does Your Company Stand?

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Among the many advancements business has made, none are more revolutionary than the concept of cloud computing. The ability to allow each user access to all the software, files and data from any internet-capable device offers staggering possibilities. But before you jump on the cloud computing bandwagon, take a few things into consideration.

Exactly Who Has Your Data, and Where?

Some companies find a cloud computing service online and trust them with sensitive company and customer information without a second thought. Before handing over information that could potentially ruin your company or destroy your customer's credit, do some research. Where is this company located? Who owns it? How is it managed? What security measures do they have in place, not just from internet hackers but for their own employees? If you don't get satisfactory answers to these questions, don't hand over the cookie jar.

What Measures are in Place to Back Up Your Systems?

Disasters happen. It's just a fact of life. If your cloud computing service is vulnerable to tornadoes, wildfires, tsunamis, earthquakes or other hazards, so is everything you need to run your business every day. Know what off-site backups are in place, how often information is backed up and what measures are in place to restore data that is lost in the event of a physical disaster on the premises of your cloud server.

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What are the Options?

In addition to cloud computing, there are other options that offer the same flexibility and convenience with fewer security concerns. Many companies turn to thin client or zero client solutions. These solutions centralize all software, applications, data and files on a server owned and maintained by your company. Users access these files and data from your server instead of a remote server maintained by a third-party. These solutions are cheaper to operate and maintain than "fat clients", which are networks of desktop computers.

Desktop computers are high energy consumers, requiring the computer in addition to a monitor and often other accessories. Laptop computers and other devices consume less power, and you can maintain such a system with fewer IT professionals. Instead of maintaining dozens or hundreds of individual desktop computers, IT staff merely needs to maintain the centralized server. For fast cash to cover the expenses of the devices you need, mobiloans.com are quick and convenient, and you can get one on the go.

There are many ways to do business with a network of individuals, and each company should weigh the risks with the advantages before choosing a solution. Take time to research the companies you trust with your sensitive information. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and once your data is out of your hands there may not be a way to get it back.