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Nearly two-thirds of the world’s population will have access to the Internet by 2023. However, that does not mean that everyone will connect to the Internet in the same way. In our digital world, we have come a long way from dial-up access. Cloud connectivity is now vital for many companies. But what does this mean? And how have these programs begun to evolve? We’ll answer some of those questions in today’s post to illustrate just how important Layer 3 services and reliable cloud connectivity really are.
What is cloud-based software?
Some people have a vague idea of what “the cloud” is, but if you were asked what it is, could you describe the concept clearly to someone else? Cloud computing presents a way to access and store data, software, applications and even entire servers through a network of computers outside of the physical site where your own computers are located. Technically, this data can be stored anywhere, but the key is that all this information can be accessed on demand and at any time. Instead of dedicating an immense amount of IT resources, enterprises can rely on direct cloud connectivity to protect and provide access to the information they need, whenever they need it.
Why is cloud connectivity important for modern enterprises?
There are several reasons why companies are so in favor of cloud connectivity. Most importantly, direct cloud connectivity and cloud-based platforms provide better security and support, reduced costs and greater efficiency. It has also proven to be a critical tool during the pandemic, as cloud connectivity (and thus Layer 3 connectivity) enables controlled remote access to data from anywhere. At a time when employees may be scattered across a city, a country or even around the world, cloud connectivity ensures that operations can continue without interruption.
How have cloud-based platforms changed?
Now that you have a better understanding of what the cloud is and why enterprises rely on it so heavily, you may be curious about the evolution of cloud-based enterprise platforms. Within the cloud-based programs, there are a few different options to choose from. Normally, you will be able to decide between:
- Private
- Public
- Hybrid cloud models
You can also choose 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.
While the cloud may have once been an outlier in the way businesses operate, data shows that organizations are now embracing cloud computing in a variety of ways and at an extraordinary pace. Web and email hosting, productivity tools, data backup and recovery, application hosting and access, and more are becoming much more common. We are also starting to see a greater prevalence of cloud usage at the enterprise level.
Cloud-based tools for payroll and timekeeping applications, device workflow optimization and remote work innovations are now emerging. 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 excellent examples of popular cloud-based platforms. We can expect to see cloud technologies applied to everything from human resources tasks to product development in the future. The sky is really the limit when it comes to this topic.
While there is too much about cloud computing to fit in one post, one thing is clear: this type of connectivity is now a priority for countless businesses around the world. Contact us today to learn more about how we can boost your business operations with direct cloud connectivity.
