Explaining cloud computing

What is cloud computing?

Cloud computing is simply subscribing to various IT services, such as email, CRM or web conferencing, which are provided by a third party and delivered over the Internet. You pay a monthly charge depending on how many PCs you have (minimum of 5 required for Microsoft’s Business Productivity Online Suite).

How do I get into the cloud?

A ‘hosted services provider’ (an IT specialist belonging to the Microsoft Partner Network) with their own computing expertise, looks after all the technology for you, which means all you have to do is access your documents and programs over the Internet when you need them. Microsoft’s cloud solution for small business is called the Business Productivity Online Suite (BPOS).

Microsoft's Business Productivity Online Suite

BPOS costs from just £6.71 per user per month, and includes:

· Microsoft Exchange Online

· SharePoint Online

· Office Communications Online

· Office Live Meeting,

What are the benefits?

Subscribing to software delivered over the web can enable your business to take advantage of enterprise-class software without the burden or cost of managing the technology yourself. There are many benefits to cloud computing, including:

· Cost savings: renting software ‘in the cloud’ on a ‘pay-as-you-go’ basis eases cash-flow.

· Lower IT support costs: you’ll always have the latest versions of software, without the need for IT support.

· Massive storage: renting storage is cheaper than buying extra disk space for your PCs.

· Reduced risk: data security becomes your hosting company’s problem instead of yours.

· Access anywhere: get your documents via the web from home or just about anywhere else.

Learn more about how to subscribe to Microsoft Online Services.