When You Should Say NO To The Cloud

Saving information in the cloud (Cloud Storage)is often a good idea, but there are some instances when it’s best to save locally or through other methods. For example, when you have poor Internet or if security is a priority. If you want to find out exactly when you shouldn’t save in the cloud keep reading on.

When You Should Say NO To The Cloud

Poor Internet

When you save locally it doesn’t matter if you have the Internet or not, you can always access your files. However, the cloud is reliant on you having an Internet signal because cloud hosting companies can only be reached online. If you frequently have a weak Internet signal then you could be waiting hours to download and use your files from the cloud servers.

 You Need Extreme Security

If you just need basic security for common files, then saving your files in the cloud should be fine. Cloud hosting companies commonly use strong encryptions that ensure hackers do not break into their servers. However, is you need extreme security because you need to store files that are very valuable or mission critical, then the cloud isn’t for you. Not only is the computer security as powerful as other methods, but it is always possible that people managing the cloud servers will open up your file.

Cheap Internal Network

Often people say how cheap storing information in the cloud is, and it is true that the rates are usually inexpensive, but sometimes it can end up costing you more money. If you have a reliable internal network that is inexpensive to manage, then saving in the cloud can present another expense that is needless. This is because it does not make sense to move to cloud storage if it costs more, especially since your internal network will probably have better security.

Data Security Requirements

Some institutions, such as federal or medical, have data security requirements that must be met in acts such as the FISMA or HIPAA. According to the requirements of these acts, cloud servers are not secure enough and you can at fault for using these servers. Unless you want a large fine on your head, you shouldn’t use cloud hosting companies. This is also true if computer forensics teams must consistently check your business, as the teams need complete access to your hardware to conduct a proper investigation. You do not have complete access to the cloud, so this can be a problem.

Control

Control can be very important for enterprise-level and mission critical files, and if you need complete control over the files then using the cloud is a bad idea. Not only can the cloud company restrict the movement of the file, but there can be interference or other problems that prevent you from retrieving and using the files.

Extremely Large Data

Many enterprise systems have very big databases that must be constantly accessed with high speed and low latency. While clouds are made for fast access, they are not meant for extremely large files, and this can end up slowing down your business.

Geological Factors

Some businesses have to enter agreements where they only store files within a certain country or region, usually due to security but for other reasons as well. You cannot control where the files will be physically located with the cloud, so this can break the agreement and may incur fines.

Conclusion

Saving in the cloud is often inexpensive and easy, but it doesn’t work for every situation. Just be sure to think of what you require as a business or individual before saving in the cloud, and it should be easy to make this decision.