Data is arguably the most critical aspect of any business in this progressively technology-driven economy. Whether it’s in a local server or a cloud server backup in the UK, where you store that data could severely impact your business. With that being said, let’s dive deeper into client-server vs. cloud computing.
The main difference between a client-server and a managed cloud computing company comes down to whether you feel your business needs to own and manage your own private, local servers. Client-server computing is suitable for specific industries but requires substantial capital to initiate and maintain as your business may expand and need more space and updated equipment. However, business cloud services can provide unprecedented flexibility and are becoming increasingly secure and accessible for companies of all sizes and industries.
At Optimising IT, we can help you analyse and determine which data services would be best for your business.
Cloud Computing: Client-Server Benefits
A client-server network comprises at least one central server that directs the client access points, like PCs and laptops. These networks utilise the designated server to store data, manage and provide resources, and control user access and authorisation. They function similarly to a two-way street; the clients’ computers or access points submit requests to the server, and the server responds.
The main benefits of utilising client-server networks are related to the fact that they are centralised. One or multiple servers containing the vital data needed to run your business can be housed in the same area, making data security and controlling user access much more manageable. Since the servers are typically housed locally near the company, client access points are likely to be able to access certain parts of the data if there are internet outages.
Because the data is centrally managed, data security is pretty straightforward. You know where the information is physically located, authorised user access is easily managed and monitored, and data can be recovered from one single backup if needed.
Additionally, client-server networks are relatively easy to expand with few major disruptions when upgrading hardware or software. The servers and resources they provide can grow as the business grows.
Some important things to consider with client-server computing is that acquiring, maintaining, and upgrading these networks can be very expensive, making them inaccessible to businesses with smaller budgets.
Servers are typically constantly left running, so they need regular maintenance. If and when something goes wrong, the whole network can crash, grinding business to a halt until the issues are resolved.
Cloud Computing Benefits
Over the past roughly ten years, the term “the cloud” has increasingly become a part of daily vernacular. But what exactly is “the cloud”, and how is it related to cloud computing? The cloud is the colloquial term for the virtual server called a cloud storage system. Third-party organisations typically house these servers for public cloud systems, and services can be accessed via the internet. There are many benefits to utilising a managed cloud computing company, including:
- Reduced chance of total network outages
- Lower costs
- Greater flexibility
- Smoother services and IT support
Reduced Chance of Total Network Outages
Business cloud services typically utilise public cloud servers housed in hundreds of physical servers worldwide in buildings known as data centres. This means that you can access your data from anywhere in the world, and if there is something wrong with the data in one server, your system will automatically switch to another server to get what you need.
Lower Costs
Whether utilising public or private cloud services, the cost of implementing and maintaining business cloud services is substantially lower than establishing client-server networks. Depending on your industry, business model, and IT provider, the entire cost of running your IT infrastructure could become one monthly fee.
These super-low costs make it extremely easy for any business to establish itself and prosper rapidly. You don’t have to buy expensive hardware or hire a whole in-house team to maintain it. You can pay for what you need and always have room for expansion without investing in physical land.
Greater Flexibility
One of the most obvious benefits of business cloud services is that you can access your business data and services from anywhere in the world with a phone or laptop connected to the internet. This has revolutionised nearly every aspect of the global economy and daily living. Remote work in the cloud is the way of the future as technology evolves and high-quality internet access becomes increasingly available.
The lowered cost of IT infrastructure contributes to the greater flexibility that a managed cloud computing company provides. It allows for virtually unlimited business evolution, so you can focus on staying ahead of the competition and promoting an environment for improved client and employee satisfaction.
Smoother Services and IT Support
When you choose to implement cloud computing and storage in your business with the help of Optimising IT, you are making it easier to protect the longevity of your devices and your hard work. By saving your data in online and offsite virtual servers, your laptops and PCs are relieved of being overloaded by downloaded data. Your work is securely saved automatically in a cloud server backup in the UK. Your systems are also automatically updated, so you can rest assured that you will always have access to state-of-the-art software that is cost-effective and boosts your business efficiency.
With business cloud services, your IT support is on-demand whenever you need it, constantly monitoring and protecting your data. Remote work in the cloud is becoming increasingly accessible and safe thanks to providers like Optimising IT.
Whether for personal or business use, data and software will always need to be stored in servers. Contact Optimising IT today to see if business cloud services are what you need to help your business reach new heights.
