Cloud computing is currently breaking new ground when it comes to networking, and one of the most beneficial ways to use this technology is by combining various cloud services into a hybrid cloud. A hybrid cloud is basically a cloud that is made up of public and private services, and each contributes its own distinct advantages to the whole. Hybrid clouds are generally more beneficial for business owners, but they can be used for individuals as well.
Benefits of Using a Hybrid Cloud
One of the main benefits of using hybrid cloud services is that they allow certain data to be made public, while sensitive data can still be kept secure onsite. For example, a company may choose to partner with a public cloud provider to offer documents to potential consumers, while all proprietary information regarding the company’s business dealings may be kept on servers and Intranet sites that are managed by the company itself.
Hybrid Clouds for Individuals
In terms of individual use, a person may choose to use a public cloud to save and access documents or files that they have created to share with others, while at the same time, they can use a private cloud to keep personal documents relating to their documents or files away from public access. Just like in a business setting, this allows users to protect sensitive data from being exposed to criminals, intellectual property concerns and more.
Save Time and Money
Hybrid clouds are also a great way to save time, money and resources. In many cases, setting up an extensive cloud can cost business owners a great deal of money, and the IT resources needed to monitor and maintain a cloud can be considerable. By using a hybrid cloud, business owners are able to access their own local, on-site resources, as well as established resources from a public cloud, all without having to spend extra money, hire extra personnel, upgrade equipment and more.
Hybrid Clouds Expand Business Partnerships
When you choose to use a hybrid cloud, you also get the distinct advantage of a business partnership. Each entity in the hybrid cloud relationship has certain responsibilities and obligations to maintain, which ultimately relieves some stress and pressure from business owners. When you enter into an agreement with a public or private cloud provider, you basically get their guarantee that they will uphold their end of the bargain, deliver services to your customers and maintain their software and hardware, all without your business having to do a thing.
Do Your Research
If you’re considering using a hybrid cloud model to expand your business’ networking capabilities, you should always do your research first. In most cases, a company that provides hybrid cloud computing should be able to offer you a contractual agreement that spells out each piece of the company’s networking obligations, security procedures and maintenance schedules. This agreement is very important in defining who is responsible for what in the hybrid cloud environment, and you may want to consider seeking legal help in reviewing such agreements.
Finally, as with any cloud computing, knowing all of the elements within your clouds, whether public or private, is important. This is not to say that you need to understand every aspect of every company involved in the cloud chain, but it does mean that you, as a business owner, need to understand how your clouds interact to get the best performance and most return on your investment.
About the Author: Molly Henshaw is a freelance technology writer living in the DC metro area. She is also a contributing author for the data storage professionals at QTS. Contact them to explore the best cloud options for your business!
