From on-premises to the cloud
Organizations are constantly working to leverage digitalization to make their operations scalable and flexible. The cloud has had a clear impact on how today’s IT infrastructure works. One of the cloud migration strategies is moving on-premises software to the cloud. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at three topics related to this migration strategy.
How does this strategy work?
The strategy for making on-premises software available in the cloud involves hosting the software with a cloud provider such as Microsoft Azure through Alistar. We install and manage the software in the data center and make it available via an online desktop (Remote Desktop Server (RDS)). Key factors in this migration are security, access, and scalability.
1. Data Security and Conversion
During the migration process, software applications and associated data are transferred from your local server to the cloud. Identifying the type of data is important for determining its sensitivity and volume. Each type requires a different data transfer method, which affects how you migrate. Based on this, you work with the cloud provider to determine the storage and transition for each type of data, as well as the appropriate data transfer method. In many cases, data is encrypted and transferred online during the migration process.
As soon as the data is available in the cloud, you’ll enjoy the following benefits:
- Comprehensive backup and recovery options
- Comprehensive security through Microsoft Azure
- Option to add multi-factor authentication (MFA) or network segmentation
2. Access to software and data anywhere
Easy access to software and files is one of the main reasons organizations decide to switch. Before you begin the migration, it’s crucial to determine which software should be available to each employee. Not every employee needs to work with ‘heavy’ ERP software, but they do need to be able to collaborate with the rest of the organization. A hybrid cloud is the solution for this, combining different types of workstations within a single environment.
An example of a Microsoft-based hybrid cloud is one in which every employee has an online workspace containing standard apps such as Microsoft (Office) 365, Microsoft Teams, or links to online (SaaS) software. Employees who need access to an ERP system in addition to the standard apps can log in to an RDS via their workspace to work with the software. This combination ensures that your organization can collaborate effectively without having to log in to separate workspaces.
3. Scalability of Software and Users
During the migration, scalability can be determined at both the software and user levels. Software scalability takes into account the processing power, memory, and storage space of each application. Do many employees use an application? If so, it will require more processing power to ensure performance. Activate additional capacity in a timely manner to maintain a good user experience.
Scalability at the user level primarily involves increasing the number of users or licenses within the cloud. In a cloud environment, this can be easily accomplished by adding additional workstations or licenses per user.
Benefits of Cloud Migration
Moving on-premises software to the cloud ensures that employees can access their software, processes, and files from anywhere. All they need is an internet connection to access the necessary software. As an organization, you decide which software is available to each employee. Choose optimal collaboration and create a flexible IT infrastructure in the cloud!
Want to know more?
Want to get started with the Business Cloud on your own? Check out this page or contact Martijn—he’d be happy to help you figure it out!
Martijn Wapperom
