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Many companies understand the inherent benefits of working in the cloud. But if you’re new to the world of cloud computing and are just now putting your feelers out, some parts might be a bit fuzzy to you — like the differences between public and private clouds.

While there are many differences between the two types of cloud computing platforms, there are two differences, in particular, that stand out. Let’s take a quick look at those two differences.

Control

How much control you have over your data is a big deal for companies that fall within certain industries (especially within the medical industry). These companies need total control to maintain data security and privacy and to better uphold government standards and regulations.

For these companies, a private cloud is an ideal situation. This is because a private cloud gives a company more control over how its data is processed, what is used to process that data, and who ultimately has access to it.

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It’s not that a public cloud isn’t secure, and it’s not like a public cloud will just hand over your data to whoever or whatever wants it. A public cloud is secure, and it does protect your data against unauthorized access. Instead, it’s more about how certain resources are shared inside a public cloud. In this particular case, your server might use the same network devices and hardware as other companies in the cloud.   

For a company that needs a high degree of security and privacy, shared resources are simply not realistic.

Related: Device Security — The 3 biggest tips to keep your smartphone data secure

Cost

If you use shared resources, obviously the cost to operate won’t be as large as it would be if you had those resources physically onsite or virtually and fully dedicated to your company.

In other words, you don’t require dedicated hardware to operate inside a public cloud, so your monthly operating costs should be lower.

On the other hand, a private cloud does require dedicated hardware — which means you’ll pay more to operate than those running in a public cloud. However, with a fully virtual private cloud (or even a hybrid cloud), this might not be the case.

You’ll probably still pay more than those using shared resources inside a public cloud, but you don’t need to make the initial investment for hardware and you can still benefit from a predictable, monthly cost.

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The pros and cons of cloud computing platforms go well beyond that of cost and control. In fact, cloud computing, in general, promotes a variety of benefits and features that are necessary to the modern workplace — like file sharing.

Take a look at the 6 most impressive benefits of file sharing.

Rebecca Moore

Sales and Marketing Specialist at Stronghold Data