Dave Wilding, the Microsoft Small Business Specialist at Shadowfax, talks to us about cloud servers, virtual bunkers and data security.
Also known as cloud data storage, a virtual bunker offers businesses many benefits. Every business is at risk for 4 main threats. These are the loss of data by third-party providers, unauthorised data access, threats to your service provider (viruses and hacking), and poor security with the internal IT team of the provider.
The loss of even a single day’s data can be enough to cost your business money in terms of lost sales and damaged reputation. But virtual bunkers are changing the data security landscape, allowing businesses to safely store their information in the cloud.
What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing refers to various services that allow information to be kept on servers which are connected to the Internet. This is often also called SAAS – software as a service. Rather than running programs on your own PC, you access programs over the Internet. You can learn more about cloud computing on the BBC or read IBM’s guide.
The Benefits of Virtual Bunkers
The virtual bunker stores data off-site, eliminating the possibility of loss or damage due to a computer virus, hack or other data-damaging event. Even if the systems within your office fail, the virtual bunker always has the most current back-up on hand. One of the UK’s leading service providers is DataBunker.
Access from Anywhere
Another benefit of the virtual bunker is that it gives you the ability to upload files to the cloud, and then perform any action like deletion, editing and downloading from wherever you are. This allows you to work from any location.
No Headaches
Because all of your data is stored off-site, this also means it is managed off-site as well. This means no lengthy software installations or maintenance is required. Most virtual bunkers will upgrade on an automatic basis, with no action required from you.
High Security
In addition to management is security. Because they store the sometimes-sensitive data of several businesses, providers need to ensure they can protect that data. As a result, a high level of security is the norm. And the strength of security offered by a provider is high-level, allowing any business to have access to this high quality protection.
Flexibility
Where an in-house server may reach its capacity, the cloud counterpart can adjust to the needs of a business, instantly allowing it to meet the demand for space when it’s needed.
Collaboration
The virtual bunker allows employees to sync from anywhere and then use documents and apps simultaneously, making collaboration easy. Critical updates can be received in real time, meaning instant updates and faster completion of projects.
A Small Footprint
Cloud usage translates into at least 30% less energy being consumed and carbon being emitted when compared to on-site servers. Small companies who use the cloud can expect to cut their energy consumption and carbon emissions by a whopping 90%.
Fewer Costs
Because most virtual bunker services are pay as you go, the need for capital expenditure is eliminated. The faster deployment of cloud computing also means that there are minimal start-up costs. Ongoing operating expenses are also more predictable when the cloud is being used.
The cloud computing solution continues its rise in popularity. And it’s no wonder; the cloud offers benefits to virtually every department of a business, from the front desk to the warehouse. If you wish to keep up to date in cloud tech, check out Cloud Tweaks.
