Which Cloud Model is Right for Your Business?

Cloud computing improves the way businesses utilize and budget for their IT infrastructure. Migrating some or all of your IT infrastructure to the cloud does more than just free up office space and reduce technology expenses. Small and medium-sized businesses can also access better solutions and see many profit-growing advantages. There are a handful of well-known cloud providers including popular choices such as Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services (AWS). They all vary in cost depending on your business needs but can provide your business with the reliability and peace of mind you need when you choose to take the leap into the cloud. In fact, if you are using Microsoft 365 for your email, then you are already using a part of Azure and may not even realize it.

What is the Cloud?

The cloud is a broad term for a service that utilizes cloud computing technology. This is typically the act of using powerful high-end equipment to handle the workload that would normally be conducted by many individual servers. Businesses can utilize the cloud to reduce capital technology expenses and management costs. It also allows small businesses access to capabilities normally reserved for larger enterprises without the upfront costs.

Types of Cloud Models

There are three primary models to choose from when deciding to implement a cloud solution.

1. The Public Cloud
   
   This model is based on using physical hardware hosted at a data center. The public cloud is the most affordable because the cloud provider can have multiple customers on a single piece of hardware without sacrificing performance. This divides the cost of the hardware and maintenance between multiple customers in the same way that carpooling reduces traffic and saves on fuel. Besides being the most cost-effective, a public cloud solution is scalable based on your needs. However, if your business has very specific requirements such as data security or industry regulations, the public cloud might fall short.
   
   
2. The Private Cloud

Unlike the public cloud, this model does not divvy up hardware to multiple customers. Instead, your business is set up on its own dedicated server within the managed data center. You get to enjoy the benefits of agility and efficiency, as well as greater levels of control and cybersecurity. The private cloud model can be more customizable for your specific needs with a cost that’s still more effective than keeping your infrastructure in-house. Microsoft Azure, which we mentioned earlier, is an example of a private cloud. However, they also have a public option.

3. The Hybrid Cloud

By leveraging the scalability of the public cloud for non-sensitive solutions and the private cloud for mission-critical operations, this model gives you the best capabilities of both models without the sacrifice. The most important factor to consider here is that the hybrid model is still more cost-effective in the long run compared to purchasing and managing your own hardware at your office location.

If you’re still unsure which cloud model is right for you, our team of IT experts at MidnightBlue can help guide you in the right direction and provide more details on each model. Reach out to us at support@midnightbluetech.com or 412.342.3800.