workloads to Software-as-a-Service ( SaaS ) applications such as Office365 before moving the rest of their infrastructure to the cloud .

The factors accelerating the cloud trend

While the first few months of the pandemic saw many major infrastructure projects temporarily put on hold while businesses focused on implementing remote working , demand for cloud migration support is now picking up fast . This is driven by several factors . Small businesses making the move largely benefit from the same advantages as larger enterprises : no more one-time capital outlay on hardware , controllable costs , doing more with fewer resources and the flexibility to scale up or down as required . Cloud applications and services make it easier for organisations to support remote workforces . Moreover , the cloud transition can give businesses direct access to the latest technology and cutting edge tools , so adopting a cloud infrastructure becomes a key component of a forward-looking IT strategy .

On the other hand , transferring data and applications into the cloud includes a level of perceived loss of control . Technology overwhelm is real for SMEs which have no or little internal IT expertise . Cloud contracts and cost models can be complex and difficult to understand and can be a reason SMEs hesitate to make the move .

In addition , many SMEs are unnerved by endless reports of ransomware and other cyberattacks – and question whether the

cloud is secure . Keeping all applications and data in the local server room can – on the face of it – feel a lot safer , so moving to the cloud inevitably throws up a number of data protection questions .

The truth is , migrating to the cloud , if done correctly , can actually improve an organisation ’ s level of security . Cloud providers and third-party vendors alike have developed sophisticated security solutions and are constantly improving these to mitigate the latest threats . By making use of these tools and services , and with support from an experienced IT partner , SMEs can put in place a more comprehensive cybersecurity strategy .

Here is some advice for businesses wanting to make the move to the cloud :

Enlist the help of an expert

Firstly , and crucially , don ’ t tackle this transition on your own . Shifting your infrastructure is a complex task , so find a trusted managed service provider ( MSP ) with proven experience in cloud migrations . Many MSPs have helped numerous clients with successful cloud projects and are experts in this space . They can help you decide on when to migrate , which parts of your infrastructure to move to the cloud and how to do it smoothly . For peace of mind , make sure they have strong security capabilities and can put in place the right security controls to meet your requirements . When selecting your partner , look into how they are pricing their services , too . Is the pricing transparent and predictable ? Could there be fluctuations in your monthly costs ?

Bob Petrocelli , CTO , Datto

THE CLOUD TRANSITION CAN GIVE BUSINESSES DIRECT ACCESS TO THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY AND CUTTING EDGE TOOLS , SO ADOPTING A CLOUD INFRASTRUCTURE BECOMES A KEY COMPONENT OF A FORWARD- LOOKING IT STRATEGY .

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