Cloud computing. You’ve heard of it, most likely, and you’ve heard there are advantages to it, but if you’re like a lot of people, the idea might be a bit fuzzy. What exactly is cloud computing and how can it help?

Cloud computing can be defined as the storing of programs and data in secure super-servers on the Internet. This is opposed to traditional, onsite servers.  Storing information in the cloud can help keep more dollars in your pocket by cutting down on your IT costs.

Why is it cheaper to do business this way?

If you have programs that you use every day and you store them on local servers, you have to pay money for:

• software licenses for all the machines that use that particular software
• hardware to store the information
• upgrades to hardware and software
• services to keep it all running smoothly

Cloud-based computing simplifies that process for business owners and puts the maintenance costs on the “utility” company that owns the Internet based servers. This is great news, especially for small business owners who need to harness cost effective solutions.

You may be using cloud-base solutions right now and aren’t even aware of what is happening behind the scenes. Furthermore, Many applications now are web-based and you only pay for the space, licenses and features that you use. Most of these applications are on a pay-as-you-go basis, so there’s no long-term commitment. Also, you can experience all the functionality of the program you need for a fraction of the cost.

It makes sense, especially for smaller businesses, to take advantage of the higher IT budgets of the large, cloud-based computing companies. They also specialize in IT operations and can more efficiently help store your applications and data than you could do on site with a small business budget.

Finally, virtually everything from watches to refrigerators has Internet connectivity, cloud-based solutions are accessible for any company. Internet-connected devices are getting less and less expensive and connectivity is everywhere. This is making cloud-based solutions a good option to lower the cost of doing business, while increasing productivity.

Free Cloud Readiness Assessment

Want to know if your business is ready for cloud-based solutions (and how much money you could save on IT costs)? During May, we are offering free assessments to any business in the area with 10 or more computers and an onsite server. We come to your office and review your network software, data, hardware and processes to determine how cloud computing could help your business. There’s no cost or obligation, simply information that could potentially save you money. Contact Matrix Computer Consulting today to make an appointment. Call us at 703-368-2553 or email us at info@matrixcc.net.