Nearly two-thirds of the global population will have internet access by 2023. However, that doesn’t mean that everyone connects to the internet in the same way. In our digital world, we’ve come a long way from dial-up. Now, connectivity to the cloud is vital for many businesses. But what does that really mean? And how have these programs already started to evolve? We’ll answer some of those questions in today’s post to illustrate just how important layer 3 services and reliable connectivity to the cloud really are.
What is Cloud-Based Software?
Some people have a vague idea of what “the cloud” is, but could you really describe it to someone else? Cloud computing presents a way to access and store data, software, applications, and even entire servers via an off-site network of computers. This data can technically be housed anywhere, but the key is that all of this information can be accessed on-demand at any time. Instead of devoting an immense number of resources to computing, businesses can rely on direct cloud connectivity to protect and provide access to the information they need, whenever they need it.
Why is Connectivity to the Cloud Important for Modern Business?
There are several reasons why businesses are so in favor of connectivity to the cloud. Mainly, direct cloud connectivity and cloud-based platforms provide better security and support, reduced costs, and improved efficiency. It’s also proven to be a critical tool during the pandemic, as cloud connectivity (and layer 3 connectivity, by extension) allows for controlled remote access to data from anywhere. At a time when employees may be scattered across a city, a country, or even around the globe, cloud connectivity ensures that operations can continue without interruption.
How Have Cloud-Based Platforms Changed?
Now that you have a good understanding of what the cloud is and why businesses rely on it so much, you may be curious about the evolution of cloud-based business platforms. Within cloud-based programs, there are a few different options to choose from. Typically, you’ll be able to decide between:
- Private
- Public
- Hybrid cloud models
You’ll also have a choice between:
- SaaS (software as a service)
- PaaS (platform as a service)
- IaaS (infrastructure as a service)
each of which provides different levels of capabilities and support.
Although the cloud might have once been an outlier in the way businesses operate, data shows that organizations are now adopting cloud computing in various ways and at a staggering rate. Cloud-based solutions for web and email hosting, productivity tools, data backup and recovery, app hosting and access, and more are becoming far more common. We’re also starting to see more prevalence in enterprise-level cloud usage.
Cloud-based tools are now emerging for payroll and timekeeping applications, device workflow streamlining, and remote work innovations. If you’ve ever been invited to join a Slack channel or contribute to a Trello board, you’re already using cloud-based platforms without even realizing it! Google Suite programs, which allow you to share and edit documents with others in real-time, are also great examples of popular cloud-based platforms. We can expect to see cloud technologies applied to everything from HR tasks to product development in the future. The sky truly is the limit when it comes to the cloud.
While there’s far too much about cloud computing to fit into one post, one thing is clear: cloud connectivity is now a priority for countless businesses across the world. Please contact us today to learn more about how we can boost your business operations with direct cloud connectivity.
