Cloud computing refers to on-demand access, through the internet, to IT resources–including applications, servers (physical and virtual), development tools such as networking capabilities, data storage and more. These resources are hosted by remote data centers that are operated by a cloud services provider. Users can access this infrastructure through secured connections. Cloud services can be accessed via a subscription or by charging per use.

Cloud systems allow companies to reduce costs and spend less time managing IT infrastructure. They also free up IT staff to focus on other important tasks. The exact savings a business receives will depend on the system https://bluedataroom.com/what-is-an-online-data-room-and-why-do-you-need-one/ it decides to move to the cloud as well as what they’re replacing. A recent study found that business and IT professionals reported savings between 30 to 50% by switching to cloud.

There are a variety of cloud-based service models available that include Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service and Infrastructure as a Service. SaaS is probably the most popular, and one that many companies are using. It delivers the application-layer–software like CRM email, CRM, and office software- over the internet, removing the need to upgrade or maintain hardware.

Businesses also gain from the ease of scaling down or up their server size and disk storage, only paying for what they need. This rapid elasticity is an important feature for agile work processes and for quickly getting new technologies into production. Cloud vendors can also keep IT departments updated on the latest technological advancements without having to worry about costly hardware.