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By Alberto Jessurun / August 17, 2022 / Blog

Advantages and Disadvantages of Cloud Storage

There are many advantages of cloud computing. Also, there are a few disadvantages. A business must consider these pros and cons before using cloud storage. This article discusses them in detail.

Key Takeaways

Advantages

Data backup to the cloud
Cloud storage replaces hard drives
Remote updates and file syncs
Easy file sharing
Cloud computing makes remote work easier
Quality control
Automatic software updates

Disadvantages

Security and privacy concerns
Extra costs storage space
One must have an internet connection to use the cloud.

Despite evidence showing cloud computing's business efficiency, cost benefits, and competitive advantages, many businesses continue to function without it. While moving to cloud computing might seem like a difficult job, it is worth it. Still, it could have a few drawbacks. This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of cloud computing.

Advantages of Cloud Computing

Sixty-nine percent of firms use cloud-storage technology, and 18% more aim to do so. Dell states that firms using big data, cloud, mobility, and security achieve 53% quicker revenue growth. The study indicates that tech-savvy firms and industry leaders recognize cloud computing’s benefits. They use this technology to manage their businesses more efficiently, better serve consumers and boost profit margins. Some companies want to invest in cloud computing, but are still unaware of its benefits. Here’s a rundown of cloud-computing advantages.

Backup of Data to the Cloud

Data backup is essential, especially for businesses processing vital information from their clients, such as hospitals and law firms. If a hard disk dies, it must be replaced, and sometimes the data gets lost forever. There are ways to salvage data from a dead hard disk, but it’s a slow, expensive process, and it does not always guarantee data recovery. Backing up to the cloud, on the other hand, ensures that data is never lost. Users can retrieve data in the cloud using any Internet-connected device.

Cloud Storage Replaces Hard Drives

In the modern world, portability is essential; people travel for business meetings. Laptops introduced the idea of portability, but cloud storage makes it even easier. Users do not need to carry their computer, USB, or external hard drive to every business meeting. Cloud services ensure users can access data anywhere once they log in to their cloud accounts.

Remote Updates and Synced Files

When someone edits a file on one computer and wants to do the same for a file on a different computer, they do it manually. They copy the file from one computer and then transfer it to another. However, a file updated in the cloud is the same within every device used to access it. My cloud offers a synchronization feature that allows users to sync their files. Others have network drives that allow users to access files without syncing them.

Cloud Makes It Easy to Share Files

The primary advantage of cloud computing is the ease of sharing files. A user does not need to send an email to share a file. If the file is in the cloud, the user locates it and hit share. The cloud account will automatically create a link that users can copy and paste wherever they want. The individual shares the link via WhatsApp, SMS, and any other file-sharing app, and the recipient will view or download the file.

Cloud Computing Makes Remote Working Easier

Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, remote work has become routine. Cloud technology makes offsite work possible; without it, people are stuck moving back and forth between the offices to get files, defeating the primary purpose of remote working. Cloud computing leaves all the necessary files at the user's disposal, which means they can access them wherever they are.

Quality Control

Few factors are as harmful to a company's profitability as poor and inconsistent reporting. A company's documents are kept in one location and format in cloud computing. With everyone having access to the same data, companies can preserve data consistency, prevent human error, and keep track of all modifications and updates. Managing information in silos, on the other hand, can result in employees unintentionally saving separate versions of documents, resulting in confusion and diluted data.

Automatic Software Update

For busy people, waiting for system upgrades stinks. Cloud-based apps update themselves so IT departments don't have to. This saves IT employees time and money on consulting.

Disadvantages of Cloud Computing

While cloud computing has many advantages, it is not perfect. It has a few drawbacks that users should consider before they decide to adopt it. These disadvantages include:

Internet Connection is Necessary

It is impossible to use cloud storage without an internet connection. Yes, it is possible to sync files and access them while offline, but accessing the cloud account requires being online. Therefore, those in areas where they cannot access the internet cannot use cloud computing.

Extra Space Costs Money

Cloud storage space, not surprisingly, is not free. However, most cloud-service providers offer affordable services, so cost shouldn’t be an issue.

Security and Privacy Concerns

Many organizations are afraid of adopting cloud computing because of security concerns associated with cloud computing. Most cloud services encrypt data to protect it from hackers. Still, that does not eliminate cloud storage’s vulnerability. Furthermore, some providers are not sufficiently equipped to provide quality services to their clients, which makes it even riskier.

Wrapping Up

Organizations can benefit from cloud computing. While it has some downsides -- security concerns, cost, requiring an internet connection -- cloud storage has more benefits. It allows users to share files easily, back up data, replace external hard drives, improve portability, and remotely update and sync files. Unisol offers a wide range of services, and you can count on us for quality cloud-computing services. We are equipped to meet our customers' objectives. Contact us to discuss how we can help you.

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