Archive article - published on June 23 2020
If you're considering moving your organization to the cloud, understanding which cloud migration tools to use is more complicated than it may seem initially.
For example, if your computing demands are relatively light, you may only need to look at a few SaaS tools to help your company machines be more agile for remote teams. On the other hand, medium to large organizations that use a collection of platforms and programmers to integrate those platforms may need more robust tools, such as IaaS, PaaS, and FaaS.
In this quick guide, we'll discuss what these cloud migration tools do and how they may be relevant to addressing IT bottlenecks in your organization.
Cloud Migration Tools as a Collection of Web Services
Put simply, cloud migration relieves your hardware (computers, hard drives, servers, etc.) from the burden of running your IT operations.
Moving your business to the cloud offers many benefits, including longer-lasting hardware, better cybersecurity, and lower utility bills. But depending upon the nature of your organization, it may not be necessary to utilize every category of cloud computing services.
Software as a Service (SaaS)
The simplest and easiest cloud migration tool is taking advantage of SaaS programs. Any online subscription software platform qualifies as SaaS, so long as the bulk of the program processes run on the web.
Some of the most common SaaS programs include CRMs, email providers (like Gmail), and cloud-based productivity tools (like G-Suite).
If your organization is composed of small teams and doesn't demand rigorous computing power, then investing in a few highly-recommended SaaS programs will do the trick.
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
The most common version of IaaS takes the form of cloud hosting for websites. But in a broader sense, IaaS provides hosting for any number of web-based programs.
If your business custom-builds its operational tools, you can save time and money by investing in IaaS services. Not only does the cloud-based infrastructure store and back up critical data, but it can also run software from the cloud.
The most significant benefit of IaaS is that you do not have to maintain any servers on-site. Additionally, you don't have to choose between unreliable shared servers or super-expensive dedicated servers.
Cloud computing services allow you to scale your infrastructural needs and pay only for what you use.
Platform as a Service (PaaS)
For most medium to large businesses, cloud computing services must seamlessly support both software and infrastructural solutions. It is common for organizations to integrate SaaS programs and custom-built software.
In this case, your business requires a full platform as a service (or PaaS). The most widely-used and highest-rated PaaS are Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud Platform.
In terms of cloud migration tools, these two providers give you the whole package of SaaS, IaaS, and Paas services.
Upgrading your business using PaaS qualifies as full cloud migration. Because it is such a significant undertaking, you will need to develop a cloud migration strategy. You should also seriously consider partnering with a cloud migration services provider.
For more information about how Root Level Technology can assist your company’s cloud migration, schedule a call with one of our experts here.
Functions as a Service (FaaS)
The final level of cloud migration tools includes FaaS or serverless computing. If your organization creates and maintains software services, including mobile apps and web microservices, then the software tools you'll need will fall under FaaS.
Making your cloud migration as smooth as possible will require the help of migration experts experienced with the most common FaaS providers, such as AWS Lambda and Google Functions.
Final Takeaways
As you consider the available cloud migration tools out there, take some time to discuss your cloud computing services needs with your leadership and IT personnel.
Thankfully, cloud computing is 100% scalable. You can take as much or as little advantage of it as you need. That said, waiting too long to move to the cloud could put unnecessary strain on your hardware and budget.
For more information about how Root Level Technology can assist your company’s cloud migration, schedule a call with one of our experts here.