The term cloud does not denote a certain place nor is it a stand-alone technical solution. Far more, it means a concept for providing services via the internet. Until the mid 2010s, the cloud was predominantly used as a storage space for large files, and it‘s still used for this function, however, now the cloud has been developed even further and has become a place where IT services can be sourced on-demand and via self-service. This is enabled by numerous servers that are mostly located in large data centres and often spread across different continents, networked together to make up the cloud. Meanwhile, there are numerous cloud services from America, Europe and Asia. These cloud platforms are accessed by users via different end devices, for example desktop computers, smartphones or tablets.
The cloud has changed many sectors by enabling new technologies and business models. More and more products and services are using the cloud—from smart kitchen devices and fitness apps to networked vehicles. Via the cloud, machines can access data from the internet or share these with other machines, which grants them intelligent functions. This way, new innovative technologies are created, such as the Smart Home, connected mobility or Industry 4.0. Companies can also migrate their entire IT infrastructure to the cloud by procuring Software as a Service via the internet and using this on virtual computers. This prevents large investments into their own hardware, takes a load off the IT department and allows them to scale their IT flexibly. Cloud resources are available fast and can be scaled up or down at any time. This supports a company‘s dynamic growth during seasonal load peaks or when introducing new services and products.
How secure are my data in the cloud?
Whether its blueprints for construction, key production figures or customer addresses, critical data are invaluable and must be protected from unauthorised access. Contrary to popular belief, a company‘s own data centre is not the most secure place for data, even though it‘s closer to home. The level of security provided has much more to do with the know-how of the IT department and the investments made into IT security. In this regard, large cloud service providers are much like banks, storing valuable assets—in this case data—and protecting them from attacks. They invest large sums into protecting their cloud platforms, using the latest technologies, updating their systems regularly and hiring numerous IT security experts. This is why data are mostly more secure in a cloud than in your own data centre.
As an experienced IT System House, Bechtle offers everything you need for successful cloud operation. We work with large hyperscalers from America and Asia as well as with European cloud providers. Our customers have access to a holistic service—ranging from cloud architecture consulting and integration into their own IT systems to management and operation of the cloud in use. Our portfolio includes different services in the cloud, known as Managed Services, which we use to take tasks out of your hands, such as data backup, billing management, cybersecurity and much more. With Bechtle by your side, you’re ready for the next steps of your digitalisation journey. Time to face the future—contact us now!