How fake cloud software can impact your company

The cloud offers companies improved scalability, agility and affordability, but in the middle of this mass adoption, a dishonest practice called “cloudwashing” has surfaced in Africa. This happens when cloud software providers falsely advertise on-premise setups as authentic cloud alternatives.

To profit from the cloud's growing popularity, these suppliers rebrand their current on-premise software and interfaces, providing them as a “hosted service”. But underneath the surface, these systems are devoid of the essential features and advantages of true cloud computing.

These “cloud” systems generally lack the flexibility to scale resources up or down on demand, and they can limit data mobility, which makes it costly and challenging for companies to move to an alternative cloud provider in the future. Most concerning is that a company’s data could be compromised by fake cloud environments with security flaws.

The impact of fake cloud software on companies

Falling for fraudulent cloud service offerings can result in decreased agility and an impact on innovation. An enterprise’s ability to adapt to changing business requirements is slowed by limited scalability. Rapid innovation is impeded by the rigidity of the infrastructure that supports it.

In addition, these fake cloud environments can attract hidden expenses as vendor lock-in, maintenance, and upgrade fees are often hidden by these fake cloud services. These expenditures can greatly outweigh the initial savings offered by the vendor.

These systems can also inherit the security flaws of on-premise software. This puts confidential company information in danger and leaves your business vulnerable to hackers.

Lastly, performance requirements are often a challenge with false cloud environments. Workflow disruptions and system failures can occur as a result.

A checklist for identifying false cloud services

IT managers need to be on the lookout for fake cloud services and recognise them before committing to agreements. The following list can help you distinguish between legitimate cloud services and fraudulent schemes:

• Scalability - On-demand resource scaling is provided by true cloud services. Make sure the platform can accommodate changes in your business's requirements for storage and processing power.
  
  
• Deployment options - Private, public, or hybrid cloud deployment strategies are among the adaptable options provided by real cloud services. Vendors that advocate a one-size-fits-all strategy should be avoided.
  
  
• Data portability - Authentic cloud services provide seamless data transfer to different platforms. Verify that the provider will be able to export your data should you decide to move to a different cloud service.
  
  
• Security features - Strict security protocols are given top priority by reputable cloud providers. Look closely at the provider's disaster recovery procedures, compliance certifications, and security controls.
  
  
• Clear pricing structure - A legitimate cloud service provider will have a transparent pricing strategy that outlines fees related to usage, storage, and support. Watch out for unstated costs or confusing pricing schemes.

SEACOM is a reliable cloud technology partner

SEACOM provides all-inclusive cloud solutions that can boost your company's productivity. These include data storage, backup, recovery, Microsoft 365 integrations and colocation infrastructure for enterprises in Africa.

Our cloud experts will work closely with IT managers and departments to assess your cloud needs and determine the best solution that fits your company structure. We can also assist with choosing a trustworthy hyperscaler or data centre with a proven track record of dependability, scalability, and security.

We also ensure seamless transitions and migrations from on-premise infrastructure to the cloud, followed by ongoing management and oversight of cloud systems. For more information about our cloud services or to get a quote, email us at digitalservices@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM owns Africa’s most extensive network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including subsea cables and secure internet connections. We offer a diverse range of flexible, scalable and high-quality solutions for businesses that meet world-class standards for connectivity.

SEACOM is privately owned and operated, making it agile and adaptable to the needs of the customer. This makes us the preferred ICT and internet connectivity partner for African businesses and peripheral service providers. We can guarantee high-speed, low-latency and secure internet connections to corporates and small enterprises.

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