Remember when putting data in the cloud seemed dangerous? Everything has changed. Now public and private cloud providers are comfortably claiming that the cloud is more secure than traditional on-premise infrastructure. Why? Because of the prioritization of security in cloud designs compared to that of cost and functionality in traditional enterprise computing. With more organizations moving away from on-premise infrastructure to the cloud, some CIOs are looking to the private cloud for reduced security risks and more control. If you fall into that category—keep reading—this blog is all about the benefits of the private cloud and industry best practices for getting there.
Why use the private cloud?
First, there are a few variations of the private cloud to consider. For this blog, private cloud is defined as a dedicated (Private Network), a highly available and scalable infrastructure usually consumed under operational expense.
Based on this definition, the private cloud can deliver a lot of the same benefits as the public cloud, all with an architecture designed specifically for a single enterprise. The resources are not shared with others and cost management is typically more predictive. (For example, flat rates for connectivity offered by private cloud providers versus ingress or egress costs when in the public cloud.)
When it comes to security private cloud providers tend to shine. That’s because knowing that the data center has a findable address and seeing that the physical security of the data center is sound gives a lot of IT leaders peace of mind.
Most private cloud providers are smaller and offer dedicated resources, offering a better opportunity for traditional relationship building. This adds a layer of intangible security that most business still value today.
Cloud access is also more secure on a private cloud environment because it is accessed through private and secure networks links instead of the public internet.
And finally, private cloud providers tend to offer a more comfortable path to achieving compliance objectives—HIPAA is a great example.
Moving from on-prem infrastructure to the private cloud? Here are some ways to avoid problems in the future.
1. Count on growth
Whether you’re looking for Disaster Recovery or a simple Backup as a Service, finding a provider that allows for accelerated and cost-effective growth is a must. What’s even more important? Credibility with the provider and a future-facing vision that constantly focuses on what’s next.
You’ll want to partner with a provider that has a proven history in the IT industry and credibility with their current client base. What’s really key here is finding a provider that is tuned into industry changes and advancements. That means providing access to cutting edge technology (resources), while being primed and ready to adapt to the data that is residing on that technology (newer and better software platforms, etc.).
So, cost may not be the determining factor when making a move to the cloud. It’s all about finding a company that is aligned with your goals. The right cloud partner is proactively investing to be aware of sea changes in the industry before they ever happen so their clients are ready.
2. Find the right MSP
And I cannot stress this point enough. Why?
Cloud providers make it simple to “test drive” solutions and services with free trials or even user-friendly portals to navigate building resources. But without the right Managed Services Provider (MSP), it’s easy for challenges like resource sprawl and cost chaos to occur when building out and managing an internal environment.
If you’re making any dramatic changes to your infrastructure by moving it to a cloud, an MSP can significantly reduce the risks. MSPs consult; provide recommendations for your best path forward; handle the migration; provision licensing and monitor resources for security, compliance, automated maintenance and cost optimization.
That’s why using a Managed Services Provider is quickly becoming best practice for CISOs and CIOs wanting to keep their internal resources and staff members focused on their business and building innovation. Sounds nice, right?
3. Prepare your exit strategy
As opposed to moving away from the public cloud, fewer risks and challenges in moving back on prem are main drivers for selecting a private cloud. Security professionals who are more risk-averse like the knowledge that they can move data back to on prem or some other viable solution without experiencing
any significant penalty.
Those more cautious IT professionals have concerns that once they go public, their data no longer belongs to them alone. While this is usually not the case, many CISOs and CIOs are more confident storing data in a location that they can pinpoint on Google maps.
Does this sound familiar? If you’re a more conservative IT security professional, then you’re probably looking for a contract with T’s and C’s that are negotiable and even customizable to a degree. That way you’re protected if the need to efficiently move that data elsewhere arises.
Ready to make your next move?
Let’s talk
If your ready to move to the private cloud, MicroAge can help. Email our solutions team to set up a meeting and learn how we can take the risk and the hassle out of your move to the cloud.
“Rick Trujillo is an IT Solutions Consultant at MicroAge where he is a subject matter expert on the benefits of the cloud. Rick educates associates throughout MicroAge on how they can support clients on their move to the cloud while empowering data governance and limiting resource sprawl.”
Rick TrujilloDirector of Cloud Business
