According to the latest report from @Datto, most Managed Service Providers (MSPs) expect that at least half of clients’ workloads will be in the cloud by 2023, and their observations reflect our experience as we help more clients move to the cloud for their IT services.
What is cloud computing?
Cloud computing is a service whereby individuals or businesses can rent access on computing infrastructure or data centres for a wide range of services including storage, networking, and processing power. It is accessed over the internet and can be on contract or pay-as-you go.
Access to cloud computing is provided on subscription, freeing businesses from capital expenditure on equipment and ongoing maintenance of IT infrastructure.
The cloud offers immediate scalability, for example more storage can be obtained quickly, or conversely can be reduced according to changing circumstances.
Why cloud based computing appeals to SMBs
· It a scalable solution and can accommodate the needs of a growing business
· Cloud applications can help collaboration by improving information sharing and storage
· Cloud services offer all the advantages required for a robust Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery - BCDR. Your data is retained and can be accessed and restored even if the laptop is lost or stolen
· Costs can be spread throughout the year – no need for capital expenditure to upgrade equipment
· Software updates can be rolled out easily – ensuring all employees are up to date without disruption to productivity
· The cloud reduces spending on expensive hardware, removing the need to purchase and maintain servers on-premises
· It’s great for mobile working as cloud storage allows users to access their information regardless of location
All of these benefits help small and medium sized businesses – SMEs - to be more responsive to the market and therefore become more competitive.
If you’d like to discuss how your business can adopt cloud-based IT solutions, please contact Richard Twigger.
T: 0113 234 1548
BaaS is a service whereby a business’ critical data is backed up to cloud-based servers. The task of backing up systems is outsourced to a provider, therefore taking the onus away from the business. Having the right backup system in place is essential to recover files and data, should a business be the victim of a breach.
Clearly, we would recommend robust IT security, as prevention is always better than the cure, but should a business need to recover files and data quickly, BaaS is an ideal solution for small and medium sized businesses and should be used in conjunction with IT security and prevention.
Baas is a simple, safe, and cost-effective way to ensure the essential task of backing up folders and data, is being appropriately carried out to ensure data is retrievable. For a single subscription a business can enjoy cloud backup, replication, and disaster recovery.
Data loss could be the result of damaged hardware, fire, flood, or burglary but the most common (and increasing) threat is a cyber-attack. SMEs are increasingly becoming the targets of sophisticated hacker attacks, with an estimated 65,000 attacks being carried out on UK SMEs every day last year, resulting in 4,500 breaches. So having resilient and appropriate backup is one of the most fundamental business requirements.
Many SMEs do not have the resources or inhouse skills to deploy comprehensive BCDR and therefore rely on expert assistance from IT specialists like Conformedia.
Don’t wait for an attack – be prepared and have resilient and appropriate backup in place. Call Richard for more information about BaaS and how we can help you.
T: 0113 234 1548
Although technology is the key to increased efficiency and competitive advantage, having the capital expenditure to buy the latest IT technology can be a strain on micro businesses and SMEs, and is therefore often low on the list of priorities for investment.
Tech as a Service, TaaS, is an excellent way for small and medium sized businesses to access the latest IT technology and support needed for them to grow and remain competitive. It provides access to up-to-date hardware and software, security and collaborative tools and also includes IT services and support. All IT aspects are wrapped up in a monthly, quarterly, or annual subscription plan. One solution, one partner, one bill.
There’s no need for large capital investments. Instead, you can access the technology, training, services and maintenance support and save around 30% of total cost of ownership, plus the VAT can be spread over term -and all payments are 100% tax deductible.
It’s a great way to manage cash flow.
Finally, having the flexibility to return, renew or purchase equipment allows businesses to scale when needed and at a pace to suit their growth.
If you’d like to know about Tech as a Service, or the other managed services we offer, please contact Richard Twigger.
T: 0113 234 1548
