Cloud computing can be a wonderful thing when you completely understand what it is. With the hype and the transformative nature of the cloud, there are many myths that surround this innovation. The new technology can seem scary and too complicated to deal with, but here are some truths to help clear up these myths once and for all.
Myth 1: The cloud is not secure.
The biggest generalization about the cloud is that it is not a secure method to store important and sensitive information. The misconception comes from the fact that people see the cloud as one place where everyone and anyone has access to store data – and therefore also the power to change or steal from the cloud. Due to this belief, CEOs and other business owners have been somewhat reluctant to switch to the cloud. Instead, they continue with their current, outdated methods, which they are familiar and comfortable with.
Belief in this myth demonstrates a lack of understanding the cloud fully. While there have been well-publicized security issues in the cloud, there have also been plenty of security issues with traditional computing. The problem isn’t the cloud – it’s security management. A great cloud provider will certainly offer a wide selection of security measures with its cloud solutions, many of which an organization wouldn’t be able to provide to itself, but the organization needs to take responsibility for security as well. This should be discussed prior to the cloud transition.
Myth 2: Migration to the cloud means automatic conversion to all cloud characteristics.
Many believe that taking the step to implement cloud computing means completely converting everything to the cloud. This is not true. Businesses today have the need to be quick and rapidly circulate information. It makes sense move into the cloud and convert some systems/processes to the cloud while part of your business remains out of the cloud. Some private clouds provide self-service and auto-scaled environments for businesses to move to the cloud in the way that they need to without the complete commitment of converting everything.
Myth 3: The cloud costs are either really high or very low.
The cloud is, in most cases, a net positive for businesses. Migrating to the cloud during its early stages can seem costly but the overall savings offset initial costs. Do keep in mind that costs that come with migration and monthly fees all depend on the needs and requirements of your business. You pay as you go, getting the resources you need when you need them. This means the costs will rise and drop based on the requirements of your business. Additionally, many of the costs transfer to the cloud provider, who ends up handling infrastructure, maintenance and management costs. Check out our latest CloudUniversity course here to learn more about the financial benefits of cloud computing, and how it’s transforming IT from a cost center to a profit center.
The cloud will be, if it isn’t already, a part of your business in one way or another. It is common for there to be misconceptions and misunderstandings of something new, but the cloud is quickly becoming the norm in businesses all over the world. The best way to remove any uncertainties you have is to do research! Clear away some more misconceptions by reading our recent blog post, 4 Myths About Mobility in the Workplace.
Author Credit:
Ivy Lin
