Wednesday, January 13, 2021

5 things to consider when choosing the right cloud storage services

For many business owners, the growth of their companies remains the key direction that drives their business decisions. One of the tools that is being used more and more, especially in recent years, to facilitate this process is cloud computing. The cloud offers companies more flexibility, lower operating costs, and more efficient and productive operations, but even with these benefits, some companies may find it difficult to find a Managed Storage Services that is right for them. In many cases, the question is not whether the business should do this, but how well the cloud will fit into the organization's existing processes. When it comes time to make the big decision on who to choose to meet your cloud storage needs, there are five things to consider.

1. Security features

One of the biggest factors preventing business owners from using the cloud is security concerns. When you use the services of a cloud storage provider, you are essentially transferring your valuable data to a third party in the hope that they will save it. Still, given the wealth of news surrounding security breaches in large companies, business leaders may not be very excited about passing their data on to someone else. Most cloud storage companies have responded to these concerns by improving their own security by adding new measures to protect customer data. When choosing a cloud storage provider, make sure they have the proper security measures in place. These can include antivirus software, data encryption, firewalls, and regular security checks.

2. Price considerations

While this may not come as a surprise, lower operating costs are the main reason many companies have started using the cloud. And since many cloud providers are eager to help your business, the prices have become very competitive. Take a close look at how each provider's pricing structure works. Many providers offer a certain amount of storage for free, but companies that require much more storage will have to pay for their services. Some providers have a monthly subscription fee, while others have a fixed prepayment that generally lasts for the entire year until you renew it. Once you know how the salesperson charges their customers, find out which plan is best for your business.

3. Data storage location

Storing data in the cloud is not a vague abstract concept. This data is stored in a real physical location; it is simply transmitted over the Internet. When looking for a cloud provider, know where you plan to store your business information. If a provider stores your data in another country, the laws of that country may affect who has access to it and how it can be managed. Another factor to consider is whether the data storage location is at risk from natural disasters such as tornadoes, earthquakes, or hurricanes. Know that your cloud provider has a plan on how to protect and maintain your data in c

4. Service level agreement

A service level agreement (SLA) should be a key consideration when choosing a cloud storage provider. An SLA basically describes what the supplier will do for your company and what the customer's responsibilities are. This can include things like the type of data to be stored, how it will be stored, how it will be protected, how problems are resolved, and many other elements critical to understanding how a cloud provider works. Make sure you know what the SLA of a potential cloud provider entails so you have a good idea of what to expect from them.

5. Technical support

No technology is perfect and from time to time problems will arise. When disaster strikes, it helps to know that you can contact your cloud provider for much-needed help. So before choosing a provider, find out how they handle technical support. Ask them when they will be available (preferably 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and holidays) and what is the best way to reach them (online or by phone). You also need to find out how quickly they respond to an issue or problem, as shutting down cloud storage for a few days can be disastrous for your business. It is best to avoid a provider that does not meet these needs. 

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