The modern company looks nothing like companies of the past solely due to advancements that have occurred in technology. Going beyond the mere fact that computers themselves have become far more advanced, the software being used on business devices is leaps and bounds ahead of its predecessors.

In particular, cloud computing has had a revolutionary impact on businesses around the world in the last two decades that has never been seen before.

What Is Cloud Computing? 

For those who are not familiar with the definition of cloud computing in a business, it refers to the on-demand delivery of IT-related resources through the Internet, as opposed to an onsite server.

These services are typically structured on a “pay-as-you-go” basis, with businesses only purchasing the exact amount of storage, speed, and other items that they need. 

Capex vs Opex Cloud: What’s The Difference? 

When looking into cloud computing, there are two general types that a company may be using within their organization. The first is capex cloud computing which refers to any form of computing that relates to capital expenditures.

These can include items such as computers, servers, and other various pieces of hardware. However, when looking at CapEx vs. Opex Cloud, the latter refers to cloud computing within the realm of operational expenditures.

Unlike capital expenditures, operational expenditures refer to ongoing costs that are related to the day-to-day operation of an organization. Whether it’s keeping the lights on overhead or gas expenses, Opex cloud services are related to this type of expenditure. 

5 Ways Cloud Computing Has Changed Businesses

The number of ways in which cloud computing has revolutionized businesses around the world is truly countless, but there are five standout ways in particular: 

1. Improved Levels of Security Within an Organization

Cloud computing has taken cybersecurity to an entirely new level by utilizing extra features such as multi-factor authentication with hard or soft tokens, unique security clearances, and so much more. With data being better protected, companies can focus on their day-to-day operations. 

2. Streamlined Communication Across All Divisions

Another major benefit of integrating cloud services into your business is the fact that communication can be streamlined across all levels of a business.

One unique way is through cloud-based multi-phone setups, which allow a person to have both a business number and a personal number on their device. When a person calls their business number, it will ring on their personal device as if they are receiving a personal call.

3. Ease of Access To Data Across Levels of a Business

Data stored within the cloud is siloed in a more efficient manner which makes accessing that data far easier. Additionally, data that exists in different departments of a business can be organized far more efficiently as well, which can bolster productivity in new and unique ways.

Sharing data is also easier through methods such as adding individuals to shared drives with the click of a button, allowing them to view all data they are entitled to see. 

4. Allowing For The Increased Prevalence of Remote Work

Cloud computing was paving the way for remote work long before the current hybrid model was ever a thought. Through technology such as VDIs, an employee can log in to company servers from their own personal laptop anywhere in the world without having to worry about security problems.

This freedom and ability to work from virtually anywhere have opened the door to hiring employees who are thousands of miles away potentially. 

5. No Onsite Infrastructure is Needed for Data 

One of the biggest downsides to the management of data prior to cloud computing was the fact that there needed to be an onsite infrastructure to house the data servers. This was a major disadvantage considering how much it would cost to set up and run those servers, not to mention the IT salaries that needed to be paid.

On top of this, if a natural disaster struck in your office location then all data would be lost. Cloud computing allows for all of the above concerns to be removed by storing the data offsite and taking the management component off of your hands. 

Bolster Your Business Processes with the Cloud

To stay relevant in the world of business means staying on top of technological trends as they unfold. While cloud computing has been around for a couple of decades, new technologies associated with it are revealed on a yearly basis. Integrate this technology and any new applicable technology into your organization in order to stand out from the competition.