Businesses should improve cloud knowledge before adoption

Friday, December 30, 2011 4:26:31 PM

Cloud computing provides businesses with many benefits and solutions to IT problems, but it's essential for prospective adopters to understand the cloud and decide which specific services are right for their company's needs.

In a recent Daily Journal of Commerce column, IT expert David Murray reveals what exactly cloud computing is, how it's evolving and what businesses must consider before adopting it.

According to Murray, security is one of the top factors companies should consider when evaluating a transition to the cloud. Data, in all forms, is a critical aspect of most organizations, but the cloud can help enterprises secure their data if both the provider and customer take security precautions, Murray says.

"Knowing who has the keys to the kingdom is an important consideration when evaluating cloud solutions," Murray explains. "It requires careful attention to make sure data does not end up in the wrong hands or subjected to a higher risk of hacker attacks or virus infections."

Furthermore, the report said saving on IT costs is a major cloud computing advantage, as cloud adopters continue to reduce expenses related to infrastructure, storage and software.

According to a recent survey, 47 percent of companies decrease operating costs after cloud adoption, and 52 percent experienced a rise in efficiency.

-McAfee Cloud Security