Cloud computing benefitsOne of the most frequently asked questions we receive here at ThrottleNet is, “What is the Cloud and what should I know about it?” To answer this question, “cloud computing” is any computer file (data, email, video, image, document, etc.) you upload or download; any storage you maintain online; or any online communicating you conduct. Basically,  “cloud computing” refers to any Web-based activity from most Internet connected devices.

 
Now that you have a very basic understanding of what the “cloud” is, here are some ways in which the cloud can benefit your business:
 
  1. Lower Hardware and IT costs – The Cloud can reduce your overall IT expenses by diminishing your hardware and network management costs.
  2. You Only Pay for What You Need – Due to the way in which most Cloud services are invoiced, you only pay for what you use rather than paying for what you MIGHT use.
  3. Scalability –Rather than pay for expensive programs or hardware, you can easily scale your company’s storage needs.
  4. Remote Access – No matter where you are, your employees or customers can access and update information using a multitude of Internet devices (smartphones, laptops, etc.) rather than waiting until they are at the office.
  5. Better Response Time – The Cloud results in quicker response times in most cases when compared to standard hardware and servers.
  6. Skilled Vendor such as ThrottleNet – With more than 11 years of experience, a company such as ThrottleNet can manage and protect your crucial data so that your IT team (if you have one) can focus on the day-to-day activities.
  7. Disaster Recovery – The Cloud safely stores your business’s data on a secure server in a colocation facility (or data center) offsite rather than in a closet at your business. You will not have to worry about downtime due to a fire, flood, tornado or other potential disasters as long as you have an Internet connection via the Cloud.

Cloud computing also provides unmatched flexibility for businesses, allowing teams to access data and applications from anywhere with an internet connection. This mobility enhances collaboration, enabling employees to work seamlessly whether they’re in the office, at home, or on the go. With cloud-based tools, businesses can also scale their resources up or down to meet demand, making it easier to adapt to market changes without the need for costly hardware upgrades.

Another advantage of cloud computing is its ability to support business continuity through automated data backups and disaster recovery. Traditional data storage methods can be vulnerable to physical damage or cyber threats, but cloud solutions provide secure storage in multiple locations, ensuring data integrity. With the cloud, businesses have peace of mind knowing that their data is protected and recoverable in case of an emergency, minimizing downtime and protecting valuable information.

Following NIST standards for cloud computing security is essential to protecting business data in today’s digital landscape. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides comprehensive guidelines that help businesses securely implement cloud computing solutions, ensuring that data confidentiality, integrity, and availability are maintained. These standards outline cloud computing best practices, including data encryption, access control, and regular monitoring—all designed to reduce vulnerability to cyber threats.

By adhering to NIST’s cloud computing security framework, businesses can build a secure environment that safeguards sensitive information and meets compliance requirements. Implementing these cloud computing standards not only enhances data protection but also builds trust with clients and partners. NIST’s guidance empowers businesses to proactively secure their cloud computing operations, offering a structured approach to assess risks, apply strong security controls, and manage potential threats effectively.

For information on how ThrottleNet can help you get started with a cloud solution, call us at 1-866-826-5966.