So, have you got your head in the cloud? Cloud computing is becoming the norm with most people able to access their data on a device from pretty much anywhere with internet. This form of data storage is invaluable. However, with the new General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) initial date looming and people concerned about the data you may hold on them, its time to re-evaluate cloud computing.
What is a cloud?
A cloud is really a section of space on a hard drive, that is connected to the internet. You then log into that section and you can upload or download your files to use. Typically, the hard drives are stored in a racking system in a large warehouse. The cloud service provider may include some space free and then ask you to pay for more space as required. The hard drives are scanned regularly for malware, bots or other types of viruses. The cloud service may also make backups of your files in another physical location, so that if there is a failure at one site, you still have your data.
Cloud computing- What are the advantages?
Firstly, that you are not storing all your files in one place. You can access the data anywhere you have internet. That data can be shared with anyone you need to, they can make changes to the files you have shared. Large files can be sent without using email.
Cloud Computing- What are the disadvantages?
The biggest disadvantage comes when you do not have an internet connection, as you will not be able to get to your information. If security is a concern, then not always knowing where your files are could be a problem. It can become costly if you need to store large amounts of data, like high quality video.
Different cloud services
There are several cloud services, Drop Box and One Drive are two well known examples. Though it is also possible to have your own cloud, using a networked hard drive, which is then connected to the internet. Here at Jolly IT we also have cloud services and you can read more here
Security and protecting your data.
This is probably the biggest concern for users of cloud computing. As the cloud is accessible from the internet is means it is open to attack from anywhere. As explained earlier most cloud service providers go to great lengths to protect your data, probably a lot more than you will do with the files you store on your computer hard drive.
GDPR
On the 25th of May the new regulations GDPR come into force, for businesses there are new changes, to how you can accumulate information about people and store it. You must also inform people on what you will be doing with that information. If you need to know more then please contact us.
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