Taking Care of Business in the Cloud

As more companies have transitioned into remote work, the use of cloud computing has increased. Whether a business is considering using the cloud or has already begun working in the cloud, it’s important to understand how the cloud differs from other data-sharing services, and how to keep company information private while using it.

Aeko Technologies, a local IT firm, often helps small to mid-sized companies navigate this new terrain. 

"We don't have a cookie-cutter approach to any of our services," said CEO, Brian Rodgers. "We do have basic services we offer, but we don’t force any kind of paradigm onto any company, because every company is different. We dig into understanding processes and workflows so we can help each company find the best and most economical solutions for their business." 

Why the Cloud? 

Unlike computers, where data is stored on a hard drive, or hosted solutions, where data is stored on one server in another location, the cloud stores data across multiple servers in multiple locations. This data can be accessed anywhere by employees, given that their business has given them access to the shared data space.

It can be concerning to think about data being spread across multiple servers. Multiple servers require more complex security; however, with the right preparation and protection, cloud computing can be quite secure and cost-effective for businesses who would like to work remotely with ease. 

"Maintaining the infrastructure required for remote work and keeping it secure yourself can very expensive to maintain and requires a great deal of attention and ongoing maintenance," Rodgers said. "When you move to the cloud, you help to offload some of those costs and take advantage of scale that cloud providers can provide."

Moving into the cloud can increase a business's...

• Accessibility— Employees, investors, and clients can access data from anywhere, with permission.
• Efficiency— The system won’t slow down when multiple people are on it. 
• Security— Well-designed clouds keep data secure and protect companies from losing data due to unexpected changes or weather problems.
• Scalability— It’s easy to scale cloud storage as the business grows, and software and technology updates within the cloud so employees don’t have to maintain updates with programs on their hard drives. 

Already in the Cloud?

Security threats businesses often face in the cloud include insecure interfaces and APIs, data loss and leakage, and hardware failure. If a business is already using cloud computing to share files with employees, it’s important to make sure that the space they’re using is secure and is the best solution for their company. 

Whichever way a company’s data is saved, it’s imperative that they read through the cloud provider’s privacy policy. After all, your business is only as secure as the privacy policy of your vendor.

Many businesses use public clouds, like Google Cloud or Apple iCloud. These platforms, while affordable and easy to use, are not as secure as a private cloud. It’s like a filing cabinet with different drawers for different companies—they’re separated by each locked drawer, but ultimately stored together.

Creating a private cloud is often a more expensive option, but companies who take this route can rest assured that their data is not being shared with anyone else on the internet. It's like having your data in a private filing drawer! This type of cloud can be tailored to company needs and secure both sensitive and non-sensitive data. 

Some companies choose to mix and match these two options, storing sensitive data in a private cloud while storing non-sensitive data in a public cloud. Hybrid cloud computing like this can save money while keeping important data locked up tight. 

"It doesn’t have to be an all-or-none deal," Rodgers said. "You can have a hybrid environment where you have some resources local and some up in the cloud. Just be sure to work with a partner that understands the strengths and weaknesses of all options; Someone who's willing to learn your business and your processes to help navigate what your best cloud allocation is." 

Considering the variety of ways companies can use the cloud, it's important to understand different options and what they entail. 'Moving to the cloud' could mean storing files like iCloud or OneDrive, or it could mean moving a business application offsite by using Ouickbooks Online or Salesforce. For some, it could mean moving entire servers off of the local infrastructure into a cloud provider's infastructure. 

Each option has its own set of things to consider, and as with anything in life, each cloud option has its pros and cons. An in-depth evaluation of your businesses' needs and goals is truly necessary in order to effectively weigh your options and make the best decision for your company. 

Are you considering moving your business to the cloud? Concerned about your current cloud security? Contact Aeko or book a meeting with Brian Rodgers, CEO, to discuss innovative solutions that can help your company work more smoothly—and more safely—in the cloud.