Cloud Computing: Key Considerations
The benefits of a private or hybrid cloud are certainly intriguing. You receive the full access and capabilities of a private computing environment, just without the expense, hassle or maintenance responsibilities tied to owning a physical infrastructure.
This, however, certainly does not mean that you can just choose any available cloud computing solution. There is not one “all mighty cloud” where your data and applications are stored and managed. Instead, your options are almost as wide-ranging as the number of cloud providers available – with each available service and solution directly dependent on the provider you choose.
When researching the available cloud computing providers, there are three keys areas to consider: Security, Availability and Mobility. Understanding the provider’s approach to each area can help you identify the solution best suited to meet your needs:
Security
With cloud computing, you are entrusting the security of your mission sensitive data to a third party. The provider must be able to meet industry regulations and compliance needs. It is also equally important for them to be able to illustrate who has access to your data, and what systems, infrastructures and environments your data touches throughout its life-cycle.
Availability
How does the provider ensure up-time and data availability? The Service Level Agreement (SLA) can offer some insight into the provider’s capabilities. Keep in mind, however, that even SLAs that offer 100% guaranteed up-time may not provide the protection you need, as many are capped at the monthly service fee – an amount far less than the cost to the business if the service becomes unavailable or if data is lost.
Mobility
For many businesses, the adoption of a cloud computing solution is a multi-step process – one that begins with virtualization and colocation, and then transforms into a private and then public cloud solution. It is important to ensure that the provider offers physical colocation along with their cloud offerings. This allows for the seamless communication of data and applications across physical and virtual platforms.
Of course, at Expedient we’re always ready to answer any of your questions. Contact us today for more info or to schedule a tour at one of our data centers.
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_Bryan Smith_ _serves as Chief Strategy Officer at Expedient and brings more than 21 years of experience in the Telecommunications and Technology industries to his role. He oversees strategic growth planning and business development for Expedient. Bryan was one of the initial employees of Expedient in 2001 and has been instrumental in identifying expansion/acquisition opportunities within the Pittsburgh, Boston, Columbus, and Memphis markets.
