Is cloud computing secure?
There is always some level of risk involved because if a company loses its Internet connection, it cannot access its cloud-based systems. However, this is becoming less of an issue with the newer wireless devices. With a cloud-based system, you also have the ability to access information from anywhere should internal issues such as a system crash occur.
Regarding security, the providers of these offsite systems must earn a SAS 70 certification, which involves rigorous security audits. Generally, they have better backups and disaster recovery than most companies that manage systems internally.
Rest assured, cloud computing has evolved significantly in recent years to become a strong option for companies of all sizes. Of course, to minimize risk, management teams should conduct a thorough study of alternatives and create a cloud computing roadmap.
What should a company consider when evaluating which IT services can be shifted ‘to the cloud’?
First, take an inventory of all hardware and software systems — your portfolio of IT assets. Divide that portfolio into distinct groups, for example, by department and by function, and analyze each section.
How old is the technology? How well supported are the systems? How could operations be improved? Tie this into the bigger picture of business objectives: How does existing software/hardware support your goals for the future? This exercise will help you focus on cloud computing as a business value proposition. As you do this analysis, consider the cost of purchasing systems. It’s not just what you pay today for software/hardware. Figure the total cost of ownership, including periodic upgrades and maintenance.
This is where cloud computing offers a real economic advantage. For scalability, ease of maintenance and lower cost of ownership, cloud computing offers competitive systems that give companies increased flexibility and the ability to access information from anywhere.
Sassan Hejazi is director of the Technology Solutions group at Kreischer Miller, Horsham, Pa. Reach him at (215) 441-4600 or [email protected].
