Cloud is the buzzword of the moment. What is it and what can it do for your business?

Simply put, the cloud is an internet-based server or service. “Cloud” servers and services have existed as long as the internet has existed. Where virtualisation technology has taken us to recently is that what you use as a “server” is not a physical box in a data centre. It is a virtual server that can exist across multiple pieces of hardware. Most vendors offering cloud services exist on virtualised servers with redundancy of hard drives, motherboards and other hardware as well as redundancy of data links and goeographic location. They are often elastic and can expand or contract as you require.

Some businesses use a hybrid cloud solution where for example their email is hosted on a cloud product such as Microsoft Hosted Exchange but they keep their files and data in an on-premises server.

A couple of key points to remember if considering a cloud solution for your server.

• You need to have a good speed internet connection (ADSL2+ or better recommended) with a redundant link (such as 3g) if possible.
• A Private IP link would be recommended if running a server such as a domain controller which would involve extra outlay.
• You will have much lower up-front costs however you will be liable for a monthly subscription cost.
• Your server can be expanded or contracted as required.
• If you lose connection to the Internet you may experience downtime.

If you are interested in looking at a cloud solution for your server then give OJ Networks a call.