Should I Migrate My File Server to the Cloud?

With so much buzz about the benefits of the cloud, it’s hard not to at least consider migrating your file server to the cloud. It’s not a decision to take lightly, though. Before making any major change to how you store your company’s data, you have to carefully weigh the pros and cons, and also consider your available options. It’s also why you may want to consider using IT support consulting to aid with the decision and possible migration.

Pros of Migrating to the Cloud

Cost Savings

The pros of migrating your business’s file server to the cloud are undeniable, especially the cost savings. In fact, that’s the one you’ll likely hear about most often, but there are more pros than that.

The cost savings come from the reduced IT infrastructure necessary to store everything on-site. Instead of continually having to increase the number of servers you need to maintain and upgrade, additional storage capacity is easy to add when everything is stored in the cloud. Plus, you don’t have to be concerned with adding redundant devices either, because the cloud takes care of that too. The result is that even as your data needs grow, your internal IT infrastructure remains drastically scaled back. Add to that the additional cost savings you will see from only paying for the storage you use.

Easier Backups

Beyond the data redundancy issue noted above, files can also be backed up regularly by your cloud provider– or third-party cloud provider – usually at a nominal increase in cost. This reduces the risk of someone saving a file locally versus on your servers. It also prevents corrupted backup drive issues that render your latest backup useless the moment the worst happens.

Better Disaster Recovery

Naturally, migrating to the cloud also provides better disaster recovery. With regularly performed backups, you’ll likely have newer backups with the cloud than you would with an on-site backup strategy.

Facilitates Remote Work and Collaboration

Finally, a cloud-based file server gives you remote access. This makes it possible for employees to work from anywhere, which in turn increases collaboration, especially in remote and hybrid office environments.

The good news is a trusted business IT services partner can help make the migration itself easier, so you can take advantage of the benefits faster.

 

Cons of Migrating to the Cloud

The pros are nice, but migrating to the cloud is a major shift and you should know the cons.

Migration Process

The most prominent, at least at first, is the migration itself. Connectivity issues could cause issues during the transfer. Plus, the transfer itself could cause higher initial fees due to the large amount of data being transferred.

Greater Dependence on Reliable Internet Connectivity

You’re also dependent on a reliable Internet connection at all times. Without it, your business could experience downtime when employees aren’t able to access files.

May be Difficult to Switch

Every cloud platform is different. Adapting to platform apps and limitations can be frustrating. Plus, it’s often difficult to switch between providers if you decide to make a change.

Reliance on Cloud Service to Provide Security

Finally, your data is only as secure as the cloud service provider’s security. Vulnerabilities in the provider’s system can compromise your data and network. IT support consulting can help you decide on the most secure platform to help avoid these risks.

 

Consider Your Options

For businesses, there are several major cloud providers to migrate your file server to:

Provider	Summary
Microsoft OneDrive	Included with the Microsoft 365 suite, OneDrive integrates with other Microsoft services, provides collaboration features, and offers enhanced security controls to better manage access, visibility, and migration security.
Egnyte	A security-focused provider designed to unite all your digital content for increased collaboration and productivity. The platform’s made to adhere to the latest cybersecurity best practices and regulatory compliance.
Box.com	Designed to meet industry compliance standards for data security while helping your business collaborate, share files, and store sensitive data. Workflows aid in the data management process.
Dropbox Business	Provides secure data storage with advanced admin controls. It integrates well with Google and Microsoft to save, edit, and share directly. It also includes additional data management and workflow solutions.
Google Drive	As part of the Google Workspace suite, Google Drive is designed for highly collaborative teams that need to share and edit documents together in real time. When combined with Google Forms and Google Script, Google Drive can replace what were formerly paper-based processes with digital workflows.

 

Making the Decision

Making the choice to migrate your file server to the cloud isn’t always easy. IT support consulting from GSDSolutions helps you make this difficult choice and guides you through the process should you decide to proceed.

 

Want to Learn More?

Give our team at GSDSolutions IT Services a call at (650) 282-7695, or drop us an email at getstuffdone@gsdsolutions.io to learn more about our services and how we can help you put a robust managed IT service program strategy in place for your business. We offer Managed IT Services, Data Security Services and Virtual Event Management Service, with a predictable cost model and a commitment to customer satisfaction. From implementing new cybersecurity protocols for a hybrid workforce, to ensuring you’re using hardware that is optimal for your business’s goals, GSDSolutions can help your business “Get Stuff Done”!