What To Consider When Choosing Cloud Vendor? Tips To Have In Mind

For many decades, lots of companies had to splurge on managing data and maintaining various IT systems. Fortunately, with the advent of cloud computing, businesses have a great opportunity to move their data to the cloud and thus get unlimited access to it anytime, anywhere.

That is the reason why more and more individual and corporate users avail themselves of on-demand cloud computing services, which affords more flexibility. What’s more, cloud solutions are widely used today for cutting business expenses and streamlining processes.

You can read more about the most cloud computing services and most popular models of their delivery at https://litslink.com/blog/iaas-paas-saas. And from today’s article, you’re going to learn about why cloud computing is riding the crest of popularity these days and what one should do to choose the best cloud vendor possible. Let’s jump straight into it.

 

Why Go Cloud?

As we’ve already noted, cloud services enable businesses to save more money and divert it to other spheres. But how is that possible?

The point is all data businesses use nowadays is processed on behind-the-scenes machines called servers. The more data your company uses, the more power and storage you need to process and maintain it.

It’s not a secret that in-house data centers can set companies back millions of dollars. And the most frustrating thing is that companies have to maintain huge data centers most of the time, even when they don’t use their potential to the fullest. That is when cloud services come in and save the day.

Once you venture to move your business to the cloud, you start to outsource all those laborious and expensive tasks, thus saving valuable time, energy, and resources.

Cloud computing presents you with a chance to get as much storage space as your need for your data. You can also create a virtual office on the cloud and perform transactions and get on-demand access to your data anytime.

There are more, much more benefits to using cloud services and solutions today. But once you make sure that this is what your business needs, you’ll need to pick a reliable provider. Let’s take a closer at tips to consider when choosing a cloud provider.

 

Select Carefully

As cloud computing becomes more popular, more vendors start entering this lucrative niche. Undoubtedly, you’ll find tons of offers from cloud vendors once you start searching for them. Still, it would be remiss of you not to research your cloud service provider thoroughly before you choose it.

When vetting your potential provider, make sure they comply with recognized standards and quality frameworks. The technologies offered by your providers should align with your current environment and support your cloud objectives.

Also, be aware of regulatory or data privacy rules regulating personal data. Choose the vendor that can offer options and control regarding the jurisdiction wherein your data is analyzed, managed, and stored.

 

Review Statistics

It also would be wise of you to review your preferred vendor’s uptime and downtime statistics. Uptime statistics define that cloud service is accessible to a user.

According to the most recent data obtained by TechnoSurvey, almost 76 % of cloud service providers fail to deliver three nines (99,9%) of availability, which makes for almost nine hours of unscheduled downtime every year. Needless to say, it’s a rare company that can afford to condone such a waste.

It’s also important to have a good time response warranty, that is, how fast the system is operating when it is up and running. So, don’t forget to check if your provider can ensure you get a decent speed for your money.

 

Security Above All

In today’s world, lots of resources are spent on cybersecurity. So, if you want to protect your transactions, your clients’ personal information, and much more, look for a vendor who can build strong virtual walls around your data.

You should be able to constantly analyze your cloud resources regularly and check for possible vulnerabilities that hackers and scammers widely exploit.

Such giant cloud vendors as Google, Amazon, and Microsoft employ the latest technologies and the most robust security tools to safeguard your data. They offer their clients cybersecurity apps and scanners that help timely detect loopholes and system vulnerabilities.

What’s more, reputed cloud vendors offer information resources helping users secure their data and access to it on their end.

Finally, you want to be looking for a cloud partner that embraces modern automation. It’s also important that they can alert you to over-or under-utilized resources and inform you of the cases wherein your team members violate cloud security policies.

 

Upgrades

Depending on your cloud computing service provider, your system will get upgrades, eliminating the need for buying and installing expensive upgrades yourself. So, you want to turn to those vendors that can guarantee timely and robust upgrades.

That way, you can rest assured that your data is safe and secure. Your vendors will also update the systems and software that ensure proper processing and storage of your data.

 

Get Support Levels Specifics

Lots of cloud service providers offer their clients standard packages with identical support levels. Always remember to ask your vendor for a full description of these levels. You would be well advised to ask for a warranty in the form of an agreement to serve as a record should the need arise.

 

Point of Contact

In case of an issue, you must have a designated point of contact with your vendor, who can fix the problem or offer possible solutions. “Tell us your problem, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we come up with a fix” is a common example of a pop-up message users may get when they complain about their problem.

Once you explain the nature of your problem, you need to be sure that finding a resolution to your situation won’t take long. In such cases, it would be great to have a designated POC as an alternative to such messages to address the issue promptly and make sure the right people take action to fix the problem at hand.

 

Know What You Sign

One more thing you want to do when choosing a cloud vendor is to make sure they won’t force you into signing a contract whereby you will be restricted to using their services without having a chance to change a provider for a specified period of time.

Many cloud vendors try to get an initial long-term contract with varying lock-in periods and early termination charges. So, while choosing a cloud provider, you must evaluate the separation agreements in place.

It may also be crucial to inquire whether the vendor has the capability to retain your data and contact information even after your contract has ended with them. This will help you avoid any possible data breaches and protect your private information.

 

Check Service Level Agreements

A service-level agreement is a commitment to availability levels and performance of services offered. And it may vary from vendor to vendor. To pick the plan you’ll be most comfortable with, you need to sift through the verbiage of your service-level agreement.

It would be best if you familiarized yourself with the conditions you’re expected to comply with and select the plan that can best suit your personal and/or business needs.

 

Stay Updated

Once you have decided on a cloud service provider, you shouldn’t stop looking for better alternatives. Should you realize that your service isn’t aligned with the current market trends, be sure to ask your provider for updated services.

Ask them to inform you about any changes in terms and conditions, as well as special offers, discounts, and bonuses for loyal customers that you could use to your advantage.

 

Choosing Cloud Vendor Conclusion

Getting the right cloud vendor is essential for your company’s overall growth and success. Keeping these tips in mind while evaluating your options will help you find the right cloud service provider and let you manage your company operations unhindered.

If you are looking for a great cloud hosting provider, then I highly recommend Cloudways. For more info, you can check Cloudways review.

 

AUTHOR BIO: A post is written by Derrick Willson, an experienced content manager. Derrick is a professional writer with many years of experience under his belt. He mostly specializes in writing High tech reviews and press releases.