Vastly improved bandwidth capability, both in terms of quantity and quality, greater affordability of bandwidth and improved security technology have resulted in cloud computing gaining ground in SA.
This is according to Paul McKibbin, divisional CEO at Jasco Carrier Networks, who says there has never been a better time to get into the cloud locally.
McKibbin argues that as the advantages of the cloud have begun to outweigh previous security risks, so too have security measures improved.
He points out that encryption capabilities now extend up to 2 048 bit encryption and three-phase authentication, such as seen in financial institutions, with usernames, passwords and one-time PINs, is now available to secure the cloud.
Using multi-protocol label switching can also help to enhance security measures, in effect extending a private LAN into the cloud and removing the risk of running the cloud through public Internet domains, he notes.
“The reason why the technology has come to the fore now in SA is that there has been a sustained downward trend on broadband prices and an exponential growth of fibre connectivity from multiple service providers. This removes previous barriers to entry and allows local enterprises to take advantage of the technology to improve their business.”
A recent ITWeb Cloud Computing Survey discovered that cloud computing is a growing reality in SA, as 66% of respondents believe it is here to stay; although 29% suggest it is more suitable for large and mature markets.
Just over 48% of respondents rated South African companies' ability to deliver such security with a four or higher, making it the best delivered service.
McKibbin also notes that cloud computing reduces capital expenses related to IT investments, since this is leased as a service so equipment does not need to be purchased up front to access new applications and features.
“Another benefit is the ability to deliver a truly mobile workforce, since cloud computing gives users the ability to access the organisation's LAN securely from anywhere in the world. However, while the cloud offers many benefits, a one-size-fits-all approach is unlikely to succeed in the majority of cases.”
He argues that for the technology to succeed in delivering on anticipated benefits and provide required return on investments, enterprises need to evaluate their requirements and work with a provider to tailor a cloud solution which fits their specific needs.
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