Understanding the Cloud (2 of 4) - Accessing Cloud Services

Cloud services have revolutionized the way businesses operate, offering flexibility and scalability that traditional on-premises solutions can't match. Let's dive into how you can access these cloud services and what types of internet connections you'll need

1. (Previous) Introduction
2. (This Article) Accessing the Cloud
3. (Next) What's in it for me?
4. (Last) What else do I need to know?

Cloud services are typically accessed through web browsers or specialized applications. This means you can use them from pretty much anywhere with an internet connection - your office, home, or even while sipping a latte at your favorite café

Internet Connectivity Requirements

Yes, Internet connectivity is a must - just like your refrigerator needs a powercord, Cloud services need an Internet connection!

The type of connection you need depends largely on how you intend to use cloud services - lets run through some use cases and see how accessible it really is!

Basic Cloud Usage

If you're just dipping your toes into cloud waters - maybe using some online storage or basic productivity apps like Xero, or Office 365 - a standard broadband (NBN) connection will usually do the trick.  If you're remote and only have a mobile, then setting up a hotspot to share a 4G connection is fine as well

More Demanding Cloud Applications

For businesses relying heavily on cloud-based software, or handling large amounts of data, you'll want to consider a more robust connection. This will likely mean a Managed Internet Connection using:

• NBN Enterprise Ethernet: Super-fast, reliable, delivered on dedicated Fibre Optic cables - perfect for data-hungry businesses;
• Business-grade NBN: Offers better speeds and support response than regular consumer broadband

Backup Connections

Here's a Pro tip: Seriously consider setting up a backup internet connection. This could be as simple as a 4G/5G mobile broadband solution. It'll keep you connected if your main line goes down, ensuring you can always access your cloud services

Keeping Your Cloud Connection Secure

Now, let's talk about keeping your cloud connection as secure as your grandmother's secret recipe. It's not just about speed - it's about safety too!

• Fixed IP Addresses: Think of a fixed IP address like your business's digital home address. It doesn't change, making it easier to set up secure connections to your cloud services. Plus, some cloud services actually require a fixed IP for extra security. It's like having a VIP pass to the cloud!
• Firewalls: A firewall is your digital bouncer, keeping the riffraff out of your network. It monitors the traffic going in and out of your network, making sure only the good stuff gets through. When you're connecting to cloud services, a good firewall is like having a bodyguard for your data.
• SD-WAN Technology: SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) is the new kid on the block, and it's making waves. It's like having a smart traffic controller for your internet connections. SD-WAN can automatically choose the best path for your data, making your cloud connections faster and more reliable. Plus, it can help manage multiple internet connections, so if one goes down, you're not left high and dry.

These security measures work together to create a fortress around your cloud connection. They're like the three musketeers of cloud security - all for one and one for all!

Remember, while cloud providers do a lot to keep their end secure, it's up to you to make sure your connection to the cloud is locked down tight.

It's worth considering these security measures as part of an overall cloud strategy. After all, you wouldn't leave your front door unlocked, so why leave your cloud connection unprotected?

In our upcoming articles, we'll dive deeper into the world of cloud services, exploring their benefits and helping you figure out if they're the right fit for your business. Stay tuned for more cloud wisdom coming your way!

Now let's have a think through what advantages might have for a business in part 3 - What's in it for me