When it comes to storing data for your mid-size business, you may be in between a few options that exist. In recent years, there has been a tremendous push to move towards cloud-based storage and processing, rather than the traditional localized storage that many businesses have utilized for years. Some companies have even discovered that a hybrid mix of the two ends of the spectrum has been the most efficient solution for their storage needs. If you have been pondering what storage set up is best for your business, we can help! Let’s dive into more info about both cloud and local storage options

What are They? 

Cloud Storage

You may have heard marketing campaigns towards the beginning of the cloud-based computing era make the claim, “It’s in the cloud!” While catchy, and still memorable years after the fact, this phrase does not do much to explain what exactly cloud storage is. In essence, cloud storage is a way to store digital data, files, and information in the online world, one that encompasses several servers, across multiple locations. This storage method is typically maintained or managed by a web-based hosting company. The cloud exists outside of your given office space, without the need for physical copies of the data. 

Local Storage

Long gone are the days of floppy discs and CD-ROMs, however, the idea of local storage remains the same, albeit in a different capacity these days. Local storage now refers to the use of updated and newer physical storage devices. These can include hard disc drives (HDDs), solid state drives (SSDs), and external storage accessories like thumb drives or flash drives. 

What are the Benefits? 

Now that you understand the difference between the two, you may be wondering which one provides a more practical solution for your business. Rest assured, we have outlined some of the most notable pros and cons for each option! 

Cloud Storage

Pros

One of the most noteworthy reasons for the switch to cloud storage is the ability to access your stored data from pretty much anywhere you have internet service. In the past year, many companies have switched to remote work, and cloud storage provides a solution where employees scattered in multiple locations can access the data from wherever they are. This builds a more efficient workspace for those working from home, and allows more seamless collaboration. With cloud storage, you also establish a better disaster recovery system. Cloud storage solutions can be extremely cost-efficient as well as reducing energy consumption. There are many benefits to switching to a cloud-based storage set-up. 

Cons

There are some challenges that arise with this cloud storage solution, however. When dealing with highly sensitive data, it may be slightly more difficult, though not impossible, to establish data security. In addition, because cloud storage often relies on a third-party hosting company, there must be trust that the data will be handled securely, and that it will be available and accessible whenever you need it. 

Local Storage

Pros

With local storage, your business has all the data readily available at your fingertips. There is minimal upload and download time, whereas cloud storage can take slightly longer. Local storage also offers an extremely secure data-management process, since the information is stored only on those local devices, and can only be accessed by individuals who have access to said hardware. 

Cons

The downside of only being able to be accessed by individuals with the hard copies of the information is just that, a very limited accessibility. This cuts down on the ability to effectively and efficiently collaborate on projects as needed. In addition, buying and storing excess physical storage can be costly, and requires room within your office dedicated to the storage of your storage devices. Lastly, should a disaster strike your office building, all the physical copies of your data could be destroyed. 

What is Best for Your Business? 

As you can see, there are benefits and challenges that exist with either storage option. Depending on what your goals are as a business, and what kind of data you are needing to store, you may decide that either cloud or local storage is a better fit, or you may wish to create a hybrid of the two. If you have additional questions, or you would like to move forward with establishing an upgraded storage system for your mid-size business, we can help. Contact the experts at ANAX today!

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