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Have you ever imagined having access to all your files, documents and important data from anywhere in the world, at any time? This is the reality that cloud storage provides.
Cloud computing, or cloud computing , refers to the delivery of computing services — including servers, storage, databases, networking, software , analytics and intelligence — over the internet.
It is a technology that proves to be very useful, as it provides a lot of flexibility and scalability . No wonder, it has become an indispensable solution for individuals and companies
Global end-user spending on Public Cloud services is expected to increase by 20.4%. According to studies by Gartner , this totals US$675.4 billion in 2024, compared to the US$561 billion recorded in 2023.
In this article, we will explore the concept of cloud, explaining how it works, advantages and disadvantages , the different types and models of service and the main reasons that are leading companies to adopt this technology.
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What is Cloud?
In short, the cloud is a global network of remote servers connected and spread across the world to store information, run applications and provide content or computing services.
With the cloud, instead of storing your data on an on-site computer, you store it on remote servers, accessible via the internet. This way, it is possible to view information, documents and applications from anywhere and at any time.
These servers are maintained by service providers such as Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, Google, among others.
Advantages of the cloud
- Accessibility : data can be accessed from anywhere with internet access.
- Scalability : resources can be adjusted according to demand.
- Cost-benefit : reduces the need for your own physical infrastructure.
How does cloud storage work?
Cloud storage works based on a distributed server that allows data and applications to be accessed and managed via the internet.
In other words, instead of depending on a single physical server, data is stored on multiple servers, ensuring high availability .
These servers are located in buildings known as data centers , facilities protected by major security models to guarantee the total integrity of the equipment.
For users, there is no functional difference between saving a document in the cloud and saving it on their local computer. The difference is in the location where the document will be saved, which is on a device miles away — but which can be accessed from anywhere, at any time and from different devices.
What are the types of cloud?
Did you know that there are three main types of cloud? They are: public, private and hybrid.
Each type offers advantages and disadvantages and can meet different needs, so it is important to understand their specificities.
public cloud
Public cloud is a service where infrastructure is shared among multiple users and companies.
This type of cloud is generally more economical , as the server is shared. Scalability is one of the biggest advantages, allowing companies to increase or decrease their capacity as needed.
Organizations like Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud offer these services.
private cloud
Private cloud , as the name suggests, is dedicated to a single user or organization. The entire infrastructure is used exclusively by a single entity, offering greater control and security.
In this way, customization becomes its greatest attraction, allowing specific adjustments to meet the customer’s needs.
As it is only operated by a single client, it is consequently shaped to meet the particular needs of that business.
Therefore, companies with strict security and compliance requirements, such as banks and government institutions, often choose this type of cloud.
But despite the benefits, the costs are generally higher.
hybrid cloud
The hybrid cloud combines elements of the public and private clouds. Information storage can be combined through a single interface.
With this model, companies can keep sensitive data in a private cloud while using the public cloud for less critical data and scalable resources.
A common example is using the public cloud for high-demand applications and the private cloud for storing sensitive information. This arrangement offers flexibility and cost optimization .
Cloud service models: SaaS, PaaS and IaaS
In addition to cloud types, you can choose between different cloud service models depending on your needs. The main ones are SaaS , PaaS and IaaS. They offer different levels of control, flexibility and management.
Understanding their differences is crucial to choosing the most appropriate solution. Shall we see in more detail?
SaaS
SaaS, or Software as a Service , is the option most used by companies in the cloud storage market. This is because it makes use of the internet to allow users access to applications, managed by a third-party supplier.
In other words, with SaaS, it is possible to access applications via the internet without having to install or maintain software . No direct download from the web browser.
A common example of SaaS is Microsoft Office 365. Companies pay a subscription and access tools such as Word, Excel and Outlook.
PaaS
Platform as a Service ( PaaS ) provides cloud components for certain software . With it, you can enjoy a platform that creates, hosts and manages cloud applications.
In practice, this service provides an entire framework for developers to create custom applications.
In other words, the servers, storage and network can be managed by the company or a third-party provider. In turn, devs can also maintain full management of applications.
IaaS
IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) provides virtualized computing resources over the internet. Companies can rent servers, storage and networks according to demand.
Furthermore, this model offers several advantages such as scalable and flexible infrastructure resources and automated IT infrastructure, reducing the time and cost of the infrastructure provisioning and maintenance process.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a leading example of IaaS, offering a wide range of on-demand infrastructure services.
Why are businesses using cloud storage more and more?
As we have seen so far, the cloud is a very useful tool for companies, as it guarantees flexibility and scalability .
Furthermore, since the Covid-19 pandemic, working from home has established itself as a popular way of working, being adopted by many organizations. This model, which made it mandatory for employees to access files, information and applications from anywhere, was only possible through cloud computing.
The benefits associated with cloud storage, however, don’t stop there! Look:
Cost benefit
Cloud storage reduces physical infrastructure costs. Instead of investing in their own servers, companies only pay for the space they use, eliminating spending on hardware, new equipment, program licenses and other operational costs.
This is especially beneficial for businesses with variable growth, as with the cloud you can adjust your plan according to demand.
Furthermore, maintenance and updates are carried out by the service provider. Thus, if the company has an IT team, it can be allocated to more strategic tasks.
data security
One of the biggest concerns for organizations, whether small or large, is data security.
After all, data breaches and other cybercrime can hurt company revenue, customer loyalty and brand positioning.
Therefore, cloud storage providers implement robust security measures that include data encryption, advanced firewalls, and intrusion detection systems.
Furthermore, security is reinforced by constant updates and 24/7 monitoring by specialized teams .
Another benefit that cloud platforms offer is the possibility for companies to define access permissions , ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive information.
Last but not least, automatic backups reduce the risk of data loss by providing an extra layer of security.
business continuity
Cloud storage facilitates business continuity in emergency situations.
This is because crucial data can be recovered quickly in the event of hardware failures or natural disasters. This minimizes downtime and keeps operations running without significant interruption.
Another benefit is remote access . Employees can access cloud information from anywhere, allowing them to work from different locations and respond to emergencies quickly.
Productivity increase
In an increasingly competitive market, staying on top is challenging. However, cloud solutions help you stay one step ahead of the competition.
This is because one of the main benefits of cloud storage is increased productivity and operational efficiency.
Cloud-based solutions enable real-time collaboration, allowing teams to access , edit and share documents simultaneously. This promotes a more agile and efficient work environment.
Integrated cloud-based project management and communication tools also facilitate workflow. Automatic updates ensure that everyone is always working on the most recent version of documents, eliminating confusion and rework , and therefore improving efficiency.
What was the data storage and digital presence of companies like before the cloud?
Technology evolves quickly and in recent years a lot has changed. Nowadays cloud storage is trivial, but in the past things were very different.
Data and applications were stored on-premises , that is, on local servers within the companies themselves. And, if we go back even further in time, several software were made available through a CD, from which the user purchased and installed the program.
Devices used
Companies relied on hard drives and flash drives for data storage. These physical devices presented significant risks of failure and loss, in addition to requiring more work to perform backups, which were not automated.
Connectivity and access
Access to data was generally limited to devices within the company's local network. This meant that remote work was either not possible or was a challenge, requiring complex and expensive private network solutions.
Flexibility and scalability
expensive and time-consuming process . The flexibility to quickly adjust storage capacity was virtually non-existent.
How to migrate applications to the cloud?
After understanding the concept and advantages of cloud computing, the question remains: “how to migrate my company’s data and applications to this environment?”.
It is a process that requires planning and some steps are necessary.
First, set clear goals for the migration. This helps to focus on the objectives to be achieved and measure the success of the project.
Next, identify the applications and data that will be migrated. It is important to prioritize which are critical and which can be moved later.
Then, choose the provider and service model that best meets your company's needs.
It is also essential to set realistic deadlines and allocate adequate resources. Human, financial and technological resources must be well planned.
Another important point to consider is security and regulatory compliance. Ensure data is protected during and after migration.
testing and validation steps to ensure everything is working correctly on the new infrastructure.
Lastly, perform post-migration monitoring to identify and fix any issues.
Count on Skyone to migrate to the cloud
Cloud storage can bring many advantages to a company, such as flexibility, scalability and reduced operational costs. Therefore, migrating data and applications to this environment is a smart option.
And for this moment to become more peaceful, there is nothing better than a partner who knows everything about the subject. Here at Skyone we have extensive experience in cloud solutions, offering complete migration, management and storage services.
Our platform has a cloud computing where we have Skyone Autosky , a product that has everything you need to carry out the migration in a simple, fast and secure way.
With Skyone Autosky you will have:
- mobility, with access to your software from different locations and devices;
- data security with encryption;
- infrastructure flexibility;
- savings with the SaaS model;
- Experienced support team, functional 24/7 and in Portuguese, English and Spanish.
- Multi Cloud (AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud and Huawei Cloud).
To find out more details, request a demo!
Conclusion
Cloud storage has revolutionized the way companies manage their data. flexible and accessible way than was done in the past.
It allows users to access files and applications from anywhere with internet access and from any device. This facilitates collaborative work and remote access to important information.
For companies, implementing cloud storage can result in reduced operational costs and increased efficiency , as investment in physical servers is no longer necessary.
Furthermore, the ability to easily synchronize and share files makes this method attractive for different sectors.
Therefore, in a highly digitized world, where speed and efficiency are crucial for any business, cloud storage stands out as an indispensable solution.
Want to know more about migrating to the cloud? Check out our special guide!
