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It’s a decision that every company, CIO, and entrepreneur faces: where to host all that data. In a world where we rely on computing for everything we do, we want… no… we need our data to be hosted in an environment that is safe, secure, easily accessible, and at a relatively low cost. With the endless amount of data we’re pumping out on a daily basis, we also need somewhere that can handle it all.
Today, there are two major options for hosting: on the cloud or with a dedicated server. What’s the difference? Which one is better? That’s why we’re here – to explain both options and help you determine what’s right for you.
The cloud – that mysterious place where Apple and Google send all your information – is actually a virtual real-time environment that is hosted by multiple connected servers all at once. It’s a relatively new concept, but it’s spreading like wild fire and changing the way we think about data storage.
Cloud hosting has many advantages, which is why it has become so popular. It’s extremely reliable, because even if one of the connected servers goes down, the other servers will maintain hosting. Because the cloud is run on multiple servers, you can easily add more servers enabling seemingly endless scalability. Cloud hosting is essentially synonymous with the Internet (to most people, it’s the same thing), so like the Internet you can access your data from anywhere in the world. All this at a relatively low cost too, which is typically pay per usage. While some companies may have concerns over security, cloud hosting firms help companies overcome this by offering dedicated IT support and establishing strict controls.
Rather than store your data in some unknown virtual environment, many companies choose to use their own dedicated servers. A dedicated server is exactly how it sounds – a server that someone buys or leases to manage all the data. It’s kind of like using your personal computer, but on a much grander scale. This is the most traditional route for hosting.
Dedicated servers have plenty of advantages. They are much safer and offer better performance because the connections are direct. They also offer full control of your data management. When you run of out of storage space, you simply need to get an additional server to handle the new load. Of course, servers aren’t perfect and do occasionally go down, but a quick fix can bring all your data back to normal.
When it comes to hosting, the biggest difference between cloud and dedicated server lies in the security and accessibility. Some people might say the cost matters, but when it comes to hosting your all-important data, cost should not be an inhibitor. It’s more important to get the right service.
If your company manages highly sensitive data – for instance, financial data or personal identity information – then dedicated servers are the way to go. They may cost more in the long run compared to the cloud, but as the saying goes, “you can’t put a price on security”, especially when that security is for vital personal information.
For all other companies, cloud hosting is the way to go. Your data will be accessible around the clock and from anywhere in the world, so you can keep your business running like clockwork. The cloud can quickly keep up with your company’s growth and you only pay for the hosting you need.
Steadfast Networks offers both cloud hosting and dedicated servers. For more information, contact us!
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