The cloud enables businesses to easily control and scale their IT infrastructure, so it’s no surprise that cloud migration continues to rise, with over 60% of corporate data now being stored in the cloud. However, it does come with certain challenges. In this blog, we’ll look at some of the top cloud management problems and look at how these can be overcome. As businesses navigate this evolving landscape, understanding the nuances of cost optimisation, security protocols, and effective resource planning becomes crucial for successful cloud adoption. Join us as we delve deeper into practical solutions and strategies to maximise the benefits of cloud technology while mitigating potential challenges.
Cloud providers don’t implement security controls correctly
Cloud computing can introduce security concerns if the provider lacks adequate security controls. The cloud, theoretically less secure than on-premises systems, poses risks as data is accessed via the internet, making interception or remote hacking possible. Hence, robust cloud security controls are so important, as they help mitigate the risk of a security vulnerability. Thankfully, leading providers such as Azure and AWS have implemented robust security features, enhancing the protection of your cloud infrastructure.
These measures include:
- Deterrent controls: to discourage attackers by warning them of other controls
- Preventative controls: prevent attacks by plugging security flaws
- Detective controls: to detect ongoing attacks by monitoring network traffic
- Corrective controls: to limit the damage of cyber attacks by shutting down cloud servers or limiting data access
Many cloud providers don’t implement strong enough controls. Some of these features may not be enabled by default and different cloud providers have differing levels of control. You need to ensure you’re picking the right cloud platform, and ensure your security controls are configured correctly.
Unexpectedly high Cloud costs
Cloud computing helps most businesses save money by removing the need for costly hardware and network infrastructure. However, without properly managing your data usage, your business could be hit with an unexpectedly expensive bill from your cloud provider.
The trick here is to plan what resources you’ll need to power your workflow before you migrate and to keep checking what you’re using.
Here are a few tips to help avoid a nasty bill:
- Plan the capacity you’ll be using. We recommend working with an MSP to monitor your current network usage and bandwidth. This will give a great indication of how much cloud capacity you’ll need. Businesses often overspend on resources they don’t need.
- Avoid large data transfers. Many cloud providers charge data egress fees for large data transfers out of the cloud system. It is advisable to restrict the volume of data extracted from the cloud platform. For instance, a 25-terabyte egress on Azure incurs a cost of $2,075. When engaging in backups to offline storage, opting for incremental backups instead of full ones can be a cost-effective strategy. It is essential to be mindful of data transfer sizes to optimise expenses and consider alternative backup approaches to efficiently manage costs associated with cloud usage.
- Use cost monitoring tools to see what you’re spending. Cloud providers offer some great tools to monitor your cloud costs. For instance, the Azure Cost Management + Billing tool tracks your spending, forecasts future bills and alerts over-budget users.
Cloud sprawl is a common problem in small and mid-level enterprises. Many firms fail to phase out cloud services that are no longer needed and continue to pay for them. An MSP can help you analyse your cloud usage and bring down your bill.
Lack of resources and expertise
There exists a skills and resources gap that’s limiting cloud expansion. Existing IT teams often lack the expertise needed to migrate and take advantage of a cloud deployment.
Resources are a problem too. According to research by iland, 83% of businesses say a lack of migration resources has delayed their cloud migration, with 12% stating this has prevented migration entirely.
What’s the solution? We recommend:
- Resource planning: to understand what resources and infrastructure is needed to facilitate a successful cloud migration and management.
- Outsourcing to a skilled MSP: to off-load expertise-heavy tasks and benefit from the guidance of cloud experts.
Working with an MSP can help plug these gaps. A managed cloud solution offloads the responsibility of planning and managing your cloud infrastructure, providing valuable assistance to your IT staff.
Ensuring cloud compliance
Many businesses are bound by strict compliance. For example, medical and insurance companies handle sensitive data, and this can complicate a cloud migration.
Organisations must ensure compliance with legal standards based on their sector, location and requirements. Businesses need to look for cloud providers that provide compliance and adhere to the specific regulations needed in their sector.
For instance, Azure Security and Compliance Blueprints allow businesses to create, deploy, and update compliant environments. Azure Security Centre also unifies security management and enables advanced threat protection.
MSPs are experts in cloud compliance. They can work with you to ensure your cloud platform complies with the regulations applicable to your sector.
Streamline your cloud migration & management with a Managed Service Provider (MSP)
Cloud migrations offer businesses some complex challenges, ranging from security concerns, unexpected costs, to resource gaps. Navigating these intricacies can be facilitated by collaborating with a seasoned cloud migration expert. Their expertise addresses these challenges comprehensively, ensuring a smoother transition, effective management of security protocols, optimised cost structures, and strategic resource planning. By leveraging the guidance of a qualified professional, businesses can overcome these challenges and unlock the full potential of their cloud adoption.
Managed service providers will help you plan a successful migration, identify and mitigate any possible pitfalls, and assist you with setting up your cloud environment.
Cloud management shouldn’t stretch your IT capacity. Delegating your cloud management responsibilities guarantees optimal utilisation of your contemporary, scalable cloud computing infrastructure. Whether you're initiating your cloud journey and seeking guidance or already utilising Azure and aiming to maximise your investment, register for our free cloud migration assessment or, free Azure Health Check to gain valuable insights and enhance your cloud experience. Our comprehensive assessments are designed to provide tailored insights, guiding you towards a seamlessly optimised cloud environment that aligns with your specific business goals and requirements.