How to Choose Between Public and Private Cloud Services

Cloud computing is a relatively new technology, which is why some businesses still approach it with caution. However, the cloud isn’t as complicated as it seems, and it can be incredibly beneficial to your business when used effectively as part of your larger business operations systems.

One decision you’ll need to make when setting up the cloud for your business is whether you’ll use a private or public cloud service. While there are benefits and downsides to both, it’s up to you to figure out which best suits your specific business model. This post will cover some of the pros and cons of public and private cloud services.

What Is the Cloud?

“The cloud” is a very broad and often misunderstood term. Simply put, the cloud is a collection of servers (computer storage) accessed using the internet. The databases for these servers are located all over the world. The main purpose of the cloud is to eliminate the need for users to have physical servers or to run software on their own technology. This allows for seamless and efficient access to all your data, wherever you may be. 

Public vs. Private Cloud Services

Public Cloud Services

In a public cloud database, the same server is used by multiple ‘tenants’ or users, with the database located off-premises. A contract will be set up with the owner of the server, allowing you to use it for your business while staying clear of the responsibilities that come with running your own server.

Pros and Cons

As with any business technology, using a public cloud service comes with costs and benefits.

Pros:

Management and maintenance: All of the server management is completed for you by the owner of the server. Your provider is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the server.

Regular backups: Data is typically backed up regularly by the provider, so there’s no need to worry about information being lost.

Cost savings: Using a public cloud is far less costly than having a personal cloud database, since you’re not responsible for maintaining it or paying for any issues that occur with the server.

Cons: 

Security: Many businesses worry about the security of a public cloud server. If you choose to use a public cloud service, ensure the provider is trustworthy and has the proper security measures necessary to keep your business safe.

Vendor lock-in: While not talked about often, vendor lock-in is an issue faced by many businesses that use public cloud services. Over time, your business may become reliant on the services offered by your vendor, making you reliant on the vendor. It can be difficult and costly to disentangle your operations from the system.

Private Cloud Services

In private cloud services, the server is accessible by only one tenant or business. Typically, the database will be located on-site, but it can be off-site as well. If you choose to start a private cloud, you will be responsible for its management and upkeep.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

More flexibility and control: With only one tenant on your private cloud, you can customize the server to suit your exact needs, and you have full control over how the server works.

More privacy and security: While data may leak through on a public server, there’s no risk of that when you’re running a private server. Everything on the cloud is secured and catered to you, as long as you properly maintain it.

Cons:

Costly: Creating and maintaining your own cloud server is significantly more costly than using a public one.
Responsibility: As the owner of the server, you are expected to maintain it and ensure that it’s running properly.

Get Cloud Service Setup and Consulting from IT Professionals

At Alt-Tech, we want your business to succeed as much as you do. That’s why we offer high-quality, expert cloud services to businesses in Alberta and beyond. Contact us today to find out how we can help your business choose the services and tools that make the most sense for your operations, budget, and long-term plan.

 

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