What Is the Best Cloud Storage? We Debunk the Myths to Find Out
With so much chatter about safe data storage, you can find yourself with a lot of questions.
Is cloud storage secure?
How much does it cost?
What is the best cloud storage provider?
We took the time to comb through the most common cloud storage myths and set the truth free about all things cloud. Take a look for yourself.
Myth #1 – Cloud Data Is Insecure
This is by far the most common myth about cloud storage. While certainly not unreasonable, this misconception stops plenty of companies from switching to the cloud.
But before writing off such innovative technology, there are a few facts to know about cloud security.
First, security is a top focus for all cloud storage providers. Security experts work around the clock to stay ahead of hacker trends and protect their servers. In a cloud storage comparison against in-house servers, security is often vastly improved with the cloud.
Servers are often more physically secure with cloud storage as well. They’re typically monitored with camera systems, kept behind physical barriers, and can only be reached by a select few.
Also, many cloud breaches aren’t breaches at all. They’re the result of poor password security. A recent report from Gartner states that customers will account for 95% of cloud security failures through 2020. While there are additional security measures you can take, like data encryption and two-factor authentication, protecting your credentials should always be at the top of your list.
Finally, it’s important to know that cloud service employees don’t have access to your data. It’s a common misconception that your data is floating freely within the cloud for its technicians and customer service representatives to browse. This simply isn’t true.
Myth #2 – Cloud Services Are Expensive
At first glance, cloud services can seem out of reach, especially for smaller businesses with nominal budgets.
But when all considerations are priced out individually, it often becomes clear that businesses can actually save money by using the best cloud storage solution for their needs. In fact, a CompTIA report found that 47% of respondents listed overall savings as the top benefit of moving their data to cloud storage.
The costs of in-house storage are often mixed in with other business costs, making it difficult to determine what’s solely related to data storage. But when you consider utility costs, IT personnel salaries, hardware, and maintenance, the idea of paying a transparent flat rate for data storage makes more sense.
Myth #3 – Cloud Technology Is a Fad
By 2020, 83% of the company workload will be on the cloud. With that high of a percentage, it seems nearly impossible that cloud storage will ever disappear. The conception of cloud services can be traced back to the 1950s, so it can be said that the cloud has some definite staying power.
The future of cloud services is bright, with the industry estimated to reach a worth of $150 billion by the end of 2020. This anticipated jump has allowed cloud storage to surpass several other industries, including education services, corporate management, and utilities.
Myth #4 – Transitioning to the Cloud Is Slow and Difficult
Business owners often worry that switching to even the best cloud storage solution will put a screeching halt to their productivity for weeks or even months on end. The truth is that getting started on the cloud takes just a few minutes. In most cases, businesses can be utilizing the cloud in their normal business protocols on the same day they sign up.
A good cloud provider will make sure that the process of switching data over is simple and stress-free. While it may take a few days to get a handle on all the features and move over every last bit of data, productivity within a team utilizing cloud storage should sharply improve with time.
Myth #5 – My Business Isn’t Ready for the Cloud
The cloud is incredibly flexible. Many cloud providers offer their technology on a modular basis, so you’ll only pay for what you need. And if you find that your cloud needs change over time, it’s simple to increase or decrease your storage space.
If you’re worried your business isn’t ready for cloud storage, think of the alternative. Having a small staff now with in-house storage might work just fine. But should your business suddenly grow, the complexity and cost of upgrading your data storage could quickly get out of control. Switching to the cloud now can save your future resources.
There are plenty of rumors swirling around about the cloud. Before you let them make the decision on cloud storage for you, take the time to do a little investigating of your own.
So, what is the best cloud storage? It’s the one that makes the most sense for your business. Whether you’re looking for the best cloud backup solution, want to utilize secure file sharing for business clients, or need a service that allows you to complete most of your business exchanges within their servers, there’s an option out there for you.
To learn more about cloud storage and what it can do for your business, reach out to Onehub for a complimentary demo.