Just a few years ago it was common to get all your software on CD’s, and then install it onto your desktop computer or network. Each year or so, the provider would provide an updated version of your chosen programmes requiring you to spend a small fortune for the latest features. The documents you created with that software were stored on the hard disc on your PC.
All that has now changed thanks to the internet. Today we buy more and more of our software as SaaS (Software as a service). We pay a small monthly subscription rather than a large up-front lump sum, and our data is stored securely “In the cloud”. Almost every type of program from accounting packages like Xero and FreeAgent, to the ever popular Microsoft Office are available in this format. Welcome to the world of Cloud Computing!
What is Cloud Computing?
The term “the cloud” originates from early computer network diagrams where “the Internet” was always depicted as a cloud. The cloud indicated that you didn’t need to worry about how your data was routed, “the Internet” would take care of it.
Software marketers selling the first Software as a Service products quickly decided that the term Cloud Computing was more acceptable to non-techies than SaaS (and they were probably right!) In reality, the terms are pretty much synonymous. SaaS is probably more accurate as, generally, you pay a monthly/annual amount for a software service.
Where is my data stored?
The name Cloud Computing suggests that all your precious information is floating around somewhere in the sky, but that isn’t the case. Your data is stored on the ground in one or more secure data centres. You don’t actually know “where” your data is – it doesn’t matter. In fact, often no actual complete document is stored on a single server. Instead, it is distributed across the web between many different servers with only a master server knowing the location of each individual piece of information.
Should I worry about changing to a cloud computing solution?
Relax, there’s no need to worry. Cloud computing is a proven business solution that is secure, efficient and cost-effective. That’s why more and more businesses, institutions and even governments are using it. Just think of it as renting a service rather than paying in full for it. The key benefits are:
- Your software is always up to date
- The costs are easy to predict
- The solutions are scalable, allowing your software to grow as your business does
- Your data is always backed up and secure
- You can access your information 24/7 from any PC or mobile device with an internet connection
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