Cloud storage solutions use a network of servers located in multiple offsite locations, offering constant accessibility to data and information
The data that your business collects, manages and stores every day needs to be secure and accessible at all times. Delays in data retrieval cause the customer experience to suffer, and data loss can spell the end for your company. Cloud storage offers a flexible solution with reliable protection for critical business information.
How ‘the cloud’ works
Traditional data storage relies on hard drives, external media and onsite servers to manage data. This creates a closed network that can only be used in the building where the hardware is housed and increases the risk of loss due to natural disasters and system failure. The lack of remote access hampers efficiency by restricting communications and making it nearly impossible to maintain a mobile workforce.
By contrast, cloud storage solutions use a network of servers located in multiple offsite locations. Both applications and data are stored on these servers, so all cloud users have access to the same functionality and information at all times. Syncing of data ensures that the latest versions of files are available the instant that updates are made. Hardware, applications and security are managed by the cloud hosting company, which takes the burden of network maintenance off of your staff.
Why use cloud storage?
Switching to cloud storage addresses two key factors that are important to business success: accessibility and cost. Files and applications stored in the cloud are available to every employee in the company whether they’re on their office computer or using a tablet at a remote location. The reduction in lost time due to travel, errors or lack of communication has a positive impact on productivity that supports continued business growth.
Cloud storage can be purchased on a month-to-month basis or in yearly packages and costs much less than investing in onsite storage hardware. Routine updates to software, hardware and security protocols are included, allowing you to focus on what you need to get done every day rather than devoting a large amount of resources to data management. Cloud service providers also offer backup options that create multiple copies of your data for easy retrieval in the event of a disaster, thus preventing costly downtime.
Features to look for
When choosing cloud storage solutions for your business, start by assessing your needs. The solution you settle on should offer features that make data management easier and ensure the security of all stored information:
- Automated backups across multiple machines
- File versioning
- Application development environments
- Migration support for existing apps and data
- Automatic application and security updates
- Encryption for data during storage and retrieval
- A user-friendly interface with cross-platform accessibility
- Scalability both up and down as usage needs vary
- Reliable technical support
We offer secure cloud data storage with features that ensure data integrity and provides the tools you need to create a customized cloud environment that can be adjusted to meet changing business requirements. With a strong underlying architecture and dependable security, cloud storage from EMC is built to support the unique operations of your company.
Brought to you by EMC Cloud Storage
