If you’re looking for a way to manage your organization’s digital systems better, migrating your entire infrastructure and network to the cloud might be a great option.
Or, it may not be.
The approach for migrating to the cloud doesn’t have to be an all or nothing transition, as the cloud is known for its flexibility. Once evaluated, many organizations may find, that they benefit from a hybrid solution, rather than a full migration.
Before deciding to move to the cloud, compare the benefits of a full cloud migration with a hybrid solution, and consider which one would benefit your organization most.
Full Cloud Migration or Hybrid: What’s the Difference?
Before you can pick the right solution for your organization, you have to know what your options are.
A full cloud migration means moving your entire IT infrastructure to the cloud. That includes the migration of your organization’s digital data, tools, and applications from physical servers. Once in the cloud, your network is fully accessible anytime from anywhere with an internet connection.
Hybrid solutions come in many configurations and use both the cloud and physical servers. This approach allows your organization to migrate your services at a speed that best meets your needs.
Full Cloud Migration Pros and Cons
There are many benefits to a full cloud migration:
- Applications and corporate networks are accessible anywhere and the transition to remote work is seamless
- Increased scalability and flexibility
- Cost savings
- Comprehensive security for all endpoints
- Unlimited data storage
- Easier collaboration and sharing
- Enhanced business continuity
- Eliminate maintenance and energy costs
- Support available remotely from an MSP
However, there can be some drawbacks to this approach.
For one, moving everything from your existing server to a cloud server can be a monumental task. You can make it a smooth transition by following some best practices and relying on your managed service provider for guidance, but there still may be some obstacles.
Not every application is suited for the cloud. Some third-party software vendors may not be able to offer support for these systems in a cloud environment, requiring you to replace old applications with new ones
Finally, there may be a period of adjustment in end-user adoption after your cloud migration, and productivity may suffer while these users get accustomed to updated systems.
Hybrid Solution Pros and Cons
Cloud servers often can work in tandem with physical servers. If you foresee challenges with a full cloud migration, a hybrid approach may work better for your organization.
For instance, some applications and platforms may not work well in a cloud environment. You could keep these in your current configuration and only migrate applications that are better suited.
You may decide that there is a technical need that your on-site IT team should handle rather than entrusting it to a cloud support team. Also, a full cloud migration may not be cost-effective or necessary at this time.
A hybrid solution could be a temporary condition as you migrate to the cloud in phases. This approach is a great way to start enjoying cloud computing benefits while working out some kinks of a full migration.
To give you a better idea of what a hybrid solution might look like, here are three configurations organizations use either individually or combined:
- Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions use subscription-based applications delivered on the cloud by third-party vendors and accessed by users online.
- Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) solutions provide remotely hosted infrastructures that store data and host your applications and servers.
- Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) solutions combine infrastructure and software to create and host applications. They are popular among DevOps teams that are developing their proprietary software solutions.
The cons of a hybrid solution are that you may not get the full benefits of available cloud services, and it might be time-consuming for employees to switch applications that are on the cloud and others that are on a physical server.
It is important to engage with a Managed Services Provider when assessing which cloud model is right for your organization. They have the tools you require when evaluating your options to ensure you’re your business objectives are met.
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