Not so long ago, data and files were backed up on floppy disks, CDs, and DVDs. Companies kept their business-related information on servers located physically on the premises that required special room and separate security protocols. It was a stressful nightmare that involved complicated logistics and the organization of staff, as well as special infrastructure to make sure there is no breach or theft of data.
As technology advanced, so did the means to protect sensitive information of individuals, organizations, and companies. Hence, the cloud environment that offers a reliable solution for the migration of resources, bringing a new level of innovation to every business practice and personal need.
However, cloud computing is not without risks, costs, and challenges, although beneficial. So, let's go over the process, benefits, and risks migrating to the cloud can entail for your company.
Understanding cloud migration
By definition, the cloud is a server consisting of databases and software used to store information and access it over the Internet. Since the cloud is in the data center anywhere in the world, you don’t have to keep data and applications on physically-present servers at work.
When it comes to companies, the cloud server can facilitate international operation, save money on maintenance of their own servers, and provide infrastructure for small businesses. The technology used for cloud computing is called virtualization and it creates a virtual computer that behaves as a physical one known as the virtual machine.
Because of this, you can access the cloud from any device through applications or browsers. For example, when you use Gmail, you access the cloud storage where all your emails are located. This is why you can log in from your phone, tablet, or computer.
Strategies of cloud migration
To migrate to the cloud, you need to employ strategies. This includes considering whether it will be a public, private, hybrid, or multi-cloud model. Also, you have to determine the service category, namely whether it will be:
· Software as a Service (SaaS) — when applications are located on the cloud server and not your device.
· Platform as a Service (Paas) — when a company pays for tools and resources to build an application on the cloud server.
· Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) — when a company uses the cloud for its servers and storage for its operations.
The following six strategies are the top examples of what you can do when considering the cloud computing:
1. Rehost
Often referred to as Lift & Shift, rehosting includes the migration of data from servers located in your company (lift) to the cloud (shift). This is a strategy commonly used by businesses that are migrating their operations to the cloud for the first time.
2. Replatform
Replatform strategy requires programming since it involves optimizing the application that is migrating to the cloud. It may also require that you switch from your on-location database system to the one available on the cloud.
3. Repurchase
Repurchasing or dropping and shopping refers to completely switching to another product, meaning you stopped using one service in favor of a new one.
4. Refactor
Refactor involves redesigning to improve service or an application, with a goal to upgrade its availability and reliability.
5. Retain
In case certain software is not easy to migrate to the cloud, you will need to keep them as is. This is known as the hybrid model because you will combine software available on-premises and on the cloud.
6. Retire
When you are retiring services, you are identifying resources you don’t need so that you can concentrate on those that are of immediate value.
The process of migrating resources to the cloud
Depending on factors, resources, and type of migration, the process of cloud migration may include the following:
· Defining security requirements,
· Evaluating the performance,
· Choosing a cloud provider,
· Determining the budget and costs,
· Reorganizing needed for cloud migration.
To make sure everything is on order, a company should perform cloud migration testing. This will allow you to see whether any problems will prevent you from using the cloud as intended. Additionally, it will give you insights into cloud migration security and what kind of training your IT staff may need to work with resources on the cloud.
Benefits of migrating resources to the cloud
Implementing cloud solutions comes with various benefits for the organizations and businesses, especially those that are small:
· More flexibility and agility,
· Faster time to delivery,
· Reduction in costs,
· Faster innovation,
· Better management of rising customer demand,
· Immediate results,
· Scalability,
· Simpler IT service,
· Enhanced performance,
· Provision of self-service,
· Easier access to resources.
To sum it all up, a business can increase its data security and performance while lowering the costs of operation, as well as meeting its customers' needs more efficiently. Cloud migration is also a good method to modernize a company's services and offering innovative follow IT solutions, like hosting virtual events that can be accessed from anywhere. This fact that employees can work outside of the office space can increase their productivity and overall satisfaction, something that was tremendously valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Risks of cloud migration
Every business endeavor comes with certain risks and so does cloud migration since it’s a complex process. Some of the common challenges for businesses may include not being able to switch providers since services used on one platform may not be extended to another.
Another issue can be security since a large portion of it falls on the company's shoulders. This comes from the fact that security protocols on the cloud are basic so the users need to add and modify them for their purposes. Security is crucial during the migration process since then your data is the most exposed and susceptible to breach.
When migrating to the cloud, a business will have to take its on-premises servers offline. Although this is temporary, it can lead to customer dissatisfaction due to hindered application performance. Moreover, consider whether migration is an expanse your company can handle since the process can be costly.
The bottom line
Approach migrating your resources to the cloud with careful evaluation and planning to do it efficiently and with minimal risks for the business. The process may require time and money, but it’s a well worth investment that will allow employees to be more productive and for data to be more accessible. Besides, it is a key factor for successful remote operation so you can expand your business on the international level.
