How Is Cloud Storage Different from Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing refers to running software over the internet, while cloud storage means storing data on servers to make it easily accessible over the internet. This article will take a deeper look to clarify the differences between cloud computing and cloud storage and their various uses in the current business scenario.

Cloud Storage vs. Cloud Computing

The ‘Cloud’ is a general term used to describe a wide range of virtual solutions and services for individuals and businesses alike. Two such options businesses can choose from are cloud storage and cloud computing. Both of these services provide numerous benefits for businesses when implemented, but they mainly depend on each other to create value and function well.

Cloud computing refers to more than just software, and it is everything that cloud storage is not. Businesses can utilizecloud storage without cloud computing. Still, they won’t be able to access data stored in the cloud over the internet without online processing, a.k.a cloud computing. Similarly, one cannot have cloud computing without cloud storage since apps need to be stored somewhere (the cloud).

To understand this relationship and the differences between cloud computing and cloud storage, let’s consider some examples of each:

Benefits of Cloud Storage

Cloud storage allows businesses to securely share their files with different employees without requiring them to take up storage space on physical devices. In addition, they also allow making backup copies to preserve vital information and recover them later without complications.

Key benefits of cloud storage include:

• The end of local storage. 
• Data Protection. 
• Decrease in storage costs. 
• Ease of information exchange. 
• Flexible storage.

Benefits of Cloud computing

Cloud computing is the service that has completely revolutionized the way modern businesses work. Companies gain numerous benefits by moving a large portion of their IT solutions to a cloud computing model. Due to this reason, more and more companies are incorporating cloud computing into their regular work.

Key benefits of cloud storage include:

• Advantages of Mobility
• Advantages of Security
• High Flexibility
• Greater Speed
• Better Collaboration
• Efficient Disaster Recovery
• Benefits of Sustainability
• Reliable Support

Cloud Migration: Cloud Computing or Cloud Storage?

A cloud migration generally refers to data and processes being moved from on-premises to the cloud. For example, an Oracle E-Business Suite comes with apps (cloud computing) and file storage (cloud storage). This is an example of the Software-as-a-Service model. However, there are multiple paths to the cloud. A lot of businesses use some combination of any or all of these types of cloud computing and cloud storage.

• Virtual Desktop Hosting
• Application Hosting
• Home-grown Networks (VPNs)
• In-House Data Centers
• Infrastructure-as-a-Service
• Software-as-a-Service
• Website Hosting
• Ecommerce Hosting
• Cloud Backup & Data Storage Service

Cloud Computing Migration Options

For businesses, when we talk about cloud computing, we are talking about adopting solutions so they can do their job from anywhere and also save costs. These options here can include Software-as-a-Service, Desktop Virtualization, and website hosting,

A great example of Software-as-a-service is the online word processor Google Docs, where everything from the app to data is live on Google servers. Compare it to hosting software like Microsoft Word. The application is similar to traditional software installed on the local hard drive. However, Google Docs is located on an offsite server and can be easily accessed remotely.

Virtual desktop hosting allows entire user desktops to be stored in a remote server, and all one needs is an internet connection for continuous usage. One can imagine it as a long cord stretching from your monitor across stateliness to a remote location where it gets plugged into your computer. It’s a little more complicated than that, but this is how desktop hosting works from a user’s perspective. When appropriately implemented, it provides a seamless experience with high-security features.

With the help of virtual desktop hosting, businesses can enjoy all features of clouds, from SaaS to application hosting.

Cloud Storage Migration Options

Usually, most people are familiar with public cloud storage, including Microsoft Azure, Amazon AWS, Google, and iCloud. In most cases, these services are used to store data, house applications for front and back offices, and store SaaS native solutions.

Managed cloud services are when a business hires a cloud services provider to design, maintain and monitor their data and application storage. This provides an excellent option for sensitive business information like proprietary or financial data. With the help of dedicated hosting, businesses can quickly launch a cloud solution for more mobility and maintain closer control of their data and systems.

Nowadays, in-house data centers can also be connected via remote desktop, VPN, etc. However, with a massive amount of data being generated by businesses today, they are rarely the only storage option a company has. It’s too challenging to keep up in today’s IT environment, and most businesses need a partner company that solely focuses on cloud architecture. Also, without proper offsite backup and storage, business data can be lost and become unretrievable.

Summing-up

We hope you understand the difference between cloud computing and cloud storage. Simply put, cloud storage = data and cloud computing = processes. They work together and are critical for keeping pace in today’s rapidly changing tech environment. Cloud storage usage includes both cloud storage andcloud computing for most businesses.