As the business grows, the need for efficient infrastructure that allows you to store and access data stress-free is extremely important. A cloud server is one such infrastructure formed by a network of interconnected servers working together to provide easy access to data. 

It is based on a pay-as-you-go model, which offers immense scalability, making cloud servers an ideal solution for all sizes of businesses. In this article, we discuss how to set up a cloud server with the help of your web host for a small business.

5-Step Cloud Server Setup for Small Business

• Define Your Needs, Storage Traffic and Budget

Before you can effectively set up your cloud server, the first important step is to understand the workload. Your cloud server hosting is going to handle server tasks that can include hosting emails, websites, storage and more. 

Begin by understanding fundamental aspects, such as daily data generation and its characteristics. 

Next, understand whether the data is transactional or analytical, how many users access it, the applications used and the critical uptime requirement.

Lastly, understand your budget and scalability needs. When you understand your needs carefully, it will allow you to make an efficient choice about your cloud server hosting. 

• Compare Top Cloud Server Providers

Now that you have a clear understanding of your requirements, the next thing you want to do is compare top cloud hosting providers. 

The choice you make will influence the cost, security, and performance of your environment. Based on your above requirements, start weighing your options. 

Before making any decision, use their free trials and assess their customer support to ensure the best cloud server hosting experience.

• Configuration of Cloud Server

Now that you are ready with the perfect cloud server solution, it’s time to configure it. Start by creating a cloud server account, choosing an operating system, setting up server specifications, like RAM, and installing the required software. 

Configuration can be a complex process; hence, it is always best to seek the help of a web host. Further configuration also differs based on the provider. Don’t hesitate and get help.

• Security Lockdown: Firewalls, Backup and Access Controls

Whether you are using free cloud hosting or paid one, security is important for everyone. Stay comprehensive with regard to security while setting up your cloud server. 

Though it is safe as it doesn’t have a single point of failure like the traditional option, it still holds a security risk. Some of the security measures you can adopt include implementing a firewall, DDoS protectors, regular backups, multi-factor authentication, and more.

• Migrating Data to Cloud Server

Lastly, make arrangements for data migration to the cloud server. Start by categorizing the data based on its importance and how sensitive it is. 

Make sure you back up your data before you start the migration. Ensure you get a better understanding of them before you proceed with migration. Once migration is done, verify the data. This way, you have completed your cloud server setup.

Conclusion

Setting up a cloud server is not that challenging. But choosing the right provider and configuring your server can be. The best option here is to go for a managed cloud server hosting provider. The cloud hosting provider will carry out all these aspects for you while taking care of maintenance and monitoring. 

Start exploring different managed cloud hosting providers. It will allow you to focus on the core of your business while the provider ensures the smooth running of your environment.