It’s hard to look at anything related to computing these days without seeing some reference to “the cloud,” a rather lofty-sounding idea that’s actually very simple. Cloud computing for individuals simply refers to storing data or programs online, in the “cloud” of the internet, rather than locally on your hard drive.
An increasing number of consumers and businesses alike are shifting to the cloud to back up their data and access it from anywhere. Telecommunications companies in particular are interested in what these cloud systems can do for their customers, since they deal with large volumes of data to process. Here are five facts you should know about this “Telco Cloud.”
1. Connectivity varies by region
Although we may think of the cloud as being some sort of magical, omnipotent force out there, it’s just the internet. And just like your wireless connection, connectivity to the cloud will vary depending on where you are and what type of network is available. If you’re comparing telecom providers, you’ll want to see what type of infrastructure they have in place to assure a reliable connection – some may be able to better provide this service in your location than others, particularly if you live or work in a rural location.
2. Cloud security works differently
One of the biggest concerns related to cloud storage is security, particularly with recent news stories about leaked data. For example, the recent data breach at Target ended up with credit card and personal information being stolen for as many as 110 million of the company’s customers. Telecom companies have raced to come up with solutions that are as secure as local data storage to prevent further incidents.
However, it’s important to note that cloud security operates slightly differently, opening up new avenues for hackers to break into the system because it’s not a closed one. While your local server essentially locks all the gates with firewalls and anti-virus programs, cloud security involves the use of monitoring each application that accesses it on a constant, moving basis. This helps keep an evolving, fluid system safe at multiple points of intrusion, preventing future security breaches.
3. You probably already use cloud-based communication services
Have you ever used Skype? Then you’ve communicated using the cloud already and have a basic understanding of how this works. The telco cloud is not just about securing data for businesses – it’s also about enabling new ways to communicate efficiently. VoIP programs like Skype are just one example of using the cloud to communicate remotely from any device, all using data packets rather than traditional networks.
4. Telco Cloud systems can be designed to respond and adapt to network traffic
Telco cloud architecture involves more than simply moving everything into a virtualized environment; it also involves managing applications so that the network can adjust as needed to the volume of traffic it’s experiencing. When you sign up for telco cloud management with providers like Nokia Networks, you should also be sure that this type of application is included.
5. Businesses don’t have to transition all at once.
Are you not quite convinced of the powers of the cloud? If you run a business, you may think that once you transition to the cloud that’s it for other forms of storage and communication. Yet it’s more than possible to move a portion of a company’s IT load into the cloud, while keeping some kept behind on local servers. The amount can be adjusted as needed.
Cloud storage and architecture is becoming increasingly commonplace, particularly as telco companies make their move to streamline their services. Although there are still a few kinks to work out, improvements in security have made this a convenient option for businesses and individuals alike
