Is Your Privacy Protected in Cloud Servers?

It is a somewhat common concern that cloud servers could endanger you privacy, seeing that this form of information storage strips the owner of his or her control over the location of the information. But there is nothing to fear here. It is similar to the concept of the way electricity is provided. The average citizen is most likely unaware of where exactly the electricity is coming from, but he or she are not consciously concerned whether the kitchen lights will turn on every time the switch is flipped. He or she simply has a trusting relationship with the electricity provider. Much like we have a mutually beneficial relationship with our customers.

Private Cloud Servers

People may be concerned that the privacy of their information will be unsafe when stored on a shared physical computer. However, this is why we refer to them as “private” servers. Virtually Private Servers (VPS), as they are also called, uses the same software to backup and store information, while each individual virtual machine is separated from another. Think of it as two individuals sitting together in the same room. Each one of them possesses an incredible amount of private information, but unless they communicate this information to each other, the information in their heads will never be released. This is how our system works as well. We make sure to adhere to our customers' needs, and if you do not want your information to be shared, we will make sure it is safely stored in our system.

What is Cloud Hosting?

Have you come across the term “Cloud Hosting” lately and wondered what this cloud buzz is all about? For many people, this is a somewhat new and unfamiliar term. The technology, however, has been around for quite some time now. The basic idea is to assist both businesses and private individuals with web hosting in a way that provides public access to different types of computing services. Instead of having each company or person go out and buy their own products, this technology lets you use the services through our server.

Server Intellect's Approach

Server Intellect believes that in order to run a successful cloud hosting services, the main focus should be on key terms like Redundancy, Scalability, Value and Performance. We emphasize your needs and base our business theory around those needs. In a world where things like sudden computer crashes and unpredictable natural disasters can endanger an entire business, our company will provide the most reliable services to keep your business safe from harm.

Why You Should Join Our Cloud

The benefits of cloud hosting are many. Not only does it provide you with an endless source of up-to-date information, this information is also stored on multiple servers, in case a hardware failure would occur. Our cloud provides an infinite source of processing power, seeing that there is always another server available if you wish to scale up. Moreover, the service cost is based on usage, much like a standard utility bill, preventing unnecessary reservation of unused server power.

Why Managed Servers Are Lifesavers

Most of us do not realize what a vital part managed servers play in both personal and corporate life. Although we may have the ability to predict when certain natural catastrophes will occur, we have yet to figure out a way to stop them from happening. A common side effect from these disasters is a power outage that may stretch from a few seconds up to several days. In such an event, tons and tons of valuable information that may have been collected for years, could now be lost in cyberspace with no available tools for recovery. Unless(!) you and/or your business have your data backed up on either one or several managed servers, that is.

Think of it in terms of the recent, and quite sarcastic, GEICO commercial, where robots have replaced humans in the roles of modern daycare personnel. Insane, right? Who would leave their toddlers in the hands of a robot? Much like this commercial suggests, it would be insane to leave crucial information in the hands of uncontrolled machines. Therefore, our servers at Server Intellect are monitored by real humans who are on call 24/7, helping you with everything from data retention and email archiving, to server administration and security services.

So, next time an unexpected disastrous event comes knocking on your door, you can be sure that our managed servers will keep your information safely stored.

Small Australian Businesses Adopting Cloud Computing

Cloud computing was first embraced by large businesses and corporations that saw the value in relocating and streamlining their IT infrastructures. While big businesses switched almost immediately, seeing the added value of moving IT functions to remote locations to reduce the cost of IT management  onsite, small businesses were hesitant to make the move.  Over time, small businesses have cobbled on to the money-saving cloud hosting industry that also provides improved flexibility, increased security and fewer risks.

Third-party service providers facilitate and take over the responsibility for the IT systems for the businesses. Third-party service providers handle various aspects of IT management such as managing computer servers, performing software updates, and backing-up data and software. The business basically rents spatial capacity and accesses their information from a remote location via the Internet. This reduces the overall cost for businesses because there is no need to have a full-time or part-time employee that handles IT management.

The number of cloud hosting and cloud service providers has grown rapidly over the last few years, in size and in the range of services offered. Now, instead of simply moving your general IT functions to a cloud provider, you can also access a range of cloud-based software including accounting systems, sales management systems and office productivity software. In Australia, this is especially verifiable.

According to a report by The Australian, as posted in The Wall Street Journal's Business section, small businesses in Australia have adopted cloud computing and cloud hosting services to help make their businesses more effective and cost-efficient.

"The greatest thing about the cloud is that enables you to scale and grow easily," said the Managing Director of Rookie Recruits, Andy Springer. "We needed IT systems that could grow with the business but did not require the IT budget of a large corporate to put in place."

Cloud computing and cloud hosting provides the opportunity for small businesses to save money and man power by moving IT management to third-party service providers. While this industry is growing at a rapid pace, studies predict we are barely tipped the iceberg of the impact that cloud hosting will have on IT management and businesses worldwide. 

Why Should Your Data be Stored in the Clouds?

Undoubtedly, you've heard of cloud servers by now, but maybe you're still wondering what all the fuss is about and why your company should be jumping on the bandwagon.  While we know the technology is only going to become more ubiquitous in the years to come, we understand your concerns.  That's why we're going to go over some of the top reasons why it makes sense to put your data into the clouds.

Unparalleled Scalability

Are you tired of worrying about peak periods forcing you to facilitate new services?  The underutilization of equipment and misappropriation of hardware won't be concerns any longer once as our cloud hosting allows for data to be more appropriately stored and shared.

Speedier Dispersal

Going up into the clouds means a dramatic drop-off in the amount of time required to deliver new applications.  This is accomplished through the elimination of monotonous software downloads, installations and new hardware servers.  With all of that out of the way, it's no wonder cloud clients save time.

Improved Disaster Recovery

The unfortunate reality is that there is a plethora of reasons for server or hardware failures to occur.  The American Red Cross estimates that 40% of businesses fail following a natural or manmade disaster.  Don't be part of that statistic.  The disaster recovery services afforded to you by signing on for our cloud services provide redundant versions of your data that can be pulled back online in moments.  This all happens automatically, but you can alternatively choose to have a portion of your data restored should the situation call for it.

So now you know what you're missing.  Oh, and did we mention that your operating costs will also be slashed as a result of you no longer needing expensive hardware or a large IT staff?

U.S. Government to Switch to Cloud Hosting

According to an article on TMCnet.com, the U.S government has plans to start implementing cloud hosting solutions. While some organizations are reluctant to make the switch, it seems as though the government has "hopped aboard the cloud train with two solid feet." The biggest motivator, according to the article, is the cost savings associated with adopting cloud technologies. This decision couldn't come at a better time, as the federal government continues to be scrutinized for its budget mess and spending beyond its means by its own members and taxpayers alike.

Perhaps companies that are reluctant to switch to cloud hosting technologies should take a close look at the amount of money the government could save on expensive physical data centers by implementing cloud computing networks. Currently, the federal government spends $80 billion on information technology every year; however, by eliminating 40 percent of its computer centers in the next four years, they could end up saving $5 billion annually. Some federal agencies have already adopted cloud-based services and they're reaping the benefits. For example, the Department of Agriculture transferred 140,000 email accounts to the cloud which saved the government $42 million.

The Chairman of the U.S. Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board, Earl Devaney, explains in the TMCnet.com article that "moving to the cloud allows us to provide better service at lower cost." By moving their Recovery.gov site to a cloud hosting infrastructure, the Board enjoys more efficient operations and improved security. Devaney says he hopes the development "will inspire other government entities to accelerate their own efforts." Those who criticize the government for overspending will be happy to hear that, according to Devaney, "American taxpayers would be the winners" if more government bodies decide to move to the cloud.

If cloud hosting solutions can help the government cut back on spending during a downturn in the world economy, imagine what switching to a cloud server could do for your business. At Server Intellect, we can take the hassle of server management off your hands, optimize your infrastructure, streamline processes, and ultimately save you money. To learn more about our cloud servers, read the information we have provided on our website or feel free to contact us.

The Importance of Disaster Recovery Services during Hurricane Season

The 2011 hurricane season is in full swing and is forecasted to have above-average activity. From now until November, United States coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to floods, extremely high winds, and power outages. The potential for disaster for businesses in Hurricane Alley is fairly easy to predict.  It's the way these businesses react to the damage that is less certain. The best way for businesses to survive in the wake of these storms is by developing a comprehensive disaster recovery plan – one that goes far beyond boarding up the windows and doors with plywood.

The aftermath of a hurricane can have devastating effects on businesses: power outages can cause losses of critical data, floods can destroy servers and hardware, and debris from the storm can prevent key employees from getting to the office to keep the company up and running. First and foremost is employees' physical safety, so the disaster recovery plan should address maintaining their protection. In today's increasingly computer-driven business world, backup and recovery solutions for your server should be a priority as well. The plan should also focus on maintaining productivity between vendors so the business can continue to function as seamlessly as possible.

At Server Intellect, we have a Disaster Recovery service that addresses some of these important issues. Our complete backup and recovery solution uses enterprise-level backup software that covers your entire server. If your hardware happens to fail, you will have the option of recovering selected files or everything included in the cloud servers. We believe it's better to be ready for a failure that never occurs rather than to be caught unprepared. After all, hurricane shutters are important, but they won't replicate mission-critical data or communicate to your customers for you.

Consider Virtual Server Hosting To Save Your Business Money

How can cloud computing and managed servers help change your business model? Why would a company even want to get involved in this type of technology? Saving money seems to be possible in every realm of a business except IT, so why does cloud computing work so well?  What is all the fuss about? 

The reality is that virtual servers are slowly changing the way that companies approach their technology sector.  If you think about different information being stored in an imaginary or virtual cloud, different users outside of the cloud can reach in and draw that information out at any time. When it is not being used, it is kept within that cloud.

There are a number of benefits to using virtual server hosting in your business. To begin with, you can save a high percentage in IT costs per year.  How does that happen? To begin with, quite a few companies still purchase, run and maintain their own servers.  Not only are these servers very expensive, but they generally require IT staff to constantly monitor different issues and situations.  It is a costly and time-consuming process, especially since it takes IT staff away from tackling larger issues makes them spend time babysitting servers.

                The concept of adding cloud servers is gaining a strong following across the board and is especially a great idea for small to medium sized companies, especially those that are starting out.  Costs can be very high when gathering everything together to form a company, and cloud computing helps to alleviate the costs, while being a proven form of technology.