Moving to the Cloud
Moving to the Cloud? With remote working here-to-stay, many businesses are considering moving to the Cloud.
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There is much to consider before pressing the button on your cloud move. We have set out some of the considerations below.
Do you have a Physical Server presently?
If so then you should consider the pros and cons accordingly before moving to the Cloud.Â
Pros and Cons of moving to the cloud from a physical server
A physical server is the preferred option for performance-oriented scenarios. With the server being secure and located on your premises, data transfers are fast and server access is not broadband-dependent. Also, a physical server provides more control over your data internally (and data security). Sometimes, a physical server may be the only solution if your business operates specific line-of-business applications.
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A cloud server removes any hardware and maintenance costs (but note you will still have to pay monthly for your new cloud server!). It can be easily accessed from everywhere where you have an internet-connected computer. However, it – and therefore your business – is reliant on Internet broadband. The broadband will need to be fast, especially if you have many users are large files to edit. Also, it may not be possible to run certain applications on a full cloud environment.
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The next consideration is your Domain Controller.
Pros and Cons of moving Domain Control to the cloud
Active Directory is the best option for complex and large networks structure, with multiple users/departments and computers. It provides several tools to manage users and computers in details and specifications. Active Directory can manage every network component in the system, including other servers.
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For this reason, AD is the preferred solution for any case if on-premises applications servers are required. Active Directory is not accessible from outside the network without configuring a VPN access, and it requires a physical server environment to operate.
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Azure AD is the perfect and efficient solution for small networks, especially if newly provisioned. It provides a central management point for users and limited control over computers overall. Azure AD also provides management for mobile devices and tablets.
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Since Azure AD is a cloud service, it can be accessed from anywhere and everywhere, but it is a broadband-dependent service. Azure AD can be integrated with other cloud services, such as Office 365 and OneDrive/SharePoint as they are part of the Microsoft system.
Cloud Migration
Moving to the cloud isn’t as simple as flicking a switch (unfortunately!). Careful advance planning and setup work is required. Once everything is ready a date for your data migration needs to be set. Fresh Mango will work with you to prepare and execute a project plan for your Cloud Migration.
Preparing your Staff for Cloud Working
Working with a Cloud-based server has differences and nuances that are different to an on-premises based server environment. Fresh Mango will work with you and your team to help smooth the transition process.
What if you don’t have a Physical Server presently?
In these scenarios, a Cloud solution is almost certainly the way to go. However, if you are a growing business and have certain requirements – server-deployed software, security etc, a Physical server may be the way to go. Talk to us and we’ll be able to make recommendations accordingly.
We hope that helps and do contact Fresh Mango today to get started moving to the Cloud!
