What Is the Cloud?

With permission from Gary, we’ve created a series of answers to some of the most common problems in the IT industry that Gary has asked us for help with over the time we’ve been his IT consultant. We’ll take it from here, thanks, Gary.

“What is the cloud and how do I use it?”

Thanks for asking, Gary. When IT specialists like us talk about the cloud, we’re speaking about the collection of data formed and held on the internet to keep your information safe and secure.

You can use the cloud for a variety of things from uploading files to encrypting servers and securing links so that only certain individuals can access the content behind them. You are probably already using a cloud-based service without even realising it! Such as a Google drive or a Dropbox account to store and send files.

When it comes to data security, there can be no substitute to having an offline backup that is only accessible by a designated person. However, the cloud has its own benefits. You can see a full quantified guide to its benefits in our Cloud Computing Statistics guide.

Data stored on the cloud can be accessed from anywhere by an authorised person, allowing work to be conducted when mobile and at home. This also means that data is backed up and secured, so should the worse happen, your data can simply be re-downloaded and restored whereas a physical backup cannot be restored if the server or databank is destroyed/damaged.

For convenience, while maintaining a large element of security, having a password protected cloud is an ideal solution for protecting your data from a cyber attack. Though you will need a good password and must ensure employees follow proper password procedures to prevent it from being breached.

“Oh, so, what’s this cyber attack thing you mentioned?”

Ah! Well, Gary, That sounds like another GFAQ in the making. We’ll answer this question (and many more, we’re sure…) next time.

In the meantime, if you or your IT department are looking for assistance with your IT services, consider giving us a call like Gary and outsourcing to one of our experienced IT  consultants. We can even be your IT department if you don’t have one. External or on-site, find out what AAG-IT can do for your IT services today on 0114 352 0688.