The idea of Cloud Computing is that an Enterprise instead of purchasing expensive licensed software’s and hardware spends comparatively a fraction of that amount to rent out resources needed to fulfill its Computing requirements (Hardware and Software’s) from a Cloud Service Provider (CSP) via a network system (Internet).

Cloud computing works on the basis of three models:

  • Infrastructure as a service (e.g. Servers, Storage, Network)
  • Platform as a Service (Database, Web Servers, Development Tools)
  • Software as a Service (e.g. CRM, Email, Games)

Opting for Cloud Computing benefits Enterprises to focus more on their core competencies and worry less about investing in their IT Infrastructure and staffing. Economies of scale can be achieved especially in the case of Public Cloud, where clients share resources, and almost no maintenance is required from their end as all is taken care of and owned by the CSP. It empowers Enterprises to access Cloud services remotely through a Web Browser. Provision for resource scalability is also available during peak usage. Even tools like WordPress Migrator can be very powerful to encourage enterprises to initial the migration towards cloud.

Besides all these benefits, there are many challenges and limitations that prevent Enterprises from migrating on to the Cloud 

1. The cloud computing model depends on the concept of Virtualization (sharing of various Hardware and software to increase utility). Data security is likely at high risk as it is scattered over multiple devices and stored on shared Data Centers and Servers. The data may even be stored in another provider’s cloud outside. Therefore, the Enterprise is at the mercy of service providers, and their control over the data now relies upon any guarantees that the Cloud Service Providers promise.

2. Then there is the case of the vulnerable system. Data stored over servers in Cloud Data Centers may not be safe.

3. Along with security threats, there is a constant requirement for an unusually fast Internet connection; fast enough to support the continuous flow of data (for processing) between Enterprises Client units (installed with Cloud applications) and the Cloud. Having said that, imagine a scenario whereby 5 or more client units using Cloud applications are sending even more data to the Cloud for processing over a shared internet connection. This creates an obvious bottleneck that would result in a significantly slow response from Cloud Applications, which compromises the capabilities of the Enterprise to deliver effectively and efficiently.

In today’s economy, Cloud Computing trumps traditional I.T resource administration and management practices in Enterprises. This is because it enables Enterprises to save a considerable amount of time and effort in maintaining I.T. Infrastructures, lower down costs, and resource staffing when compared to more traditional models.

All these challenges need to be properly addressed in order to build the Enterprises trust and confidence for them to migrate to Cloud Computing.