If you’ve tapped into the Cloud computing world in the past few years, you’ve likely heard about multi-cloud technology stacks. The majority of businesses using Cloud computing already have some sort of multi-cloud strategy, and this trend is still accelerating. This begs the question: is having a multi-cloud strategy the new normal?
What Is Multi-Cloud?
As Cloud computing has become more widely adopted and complex, many organizations have begun working with multiple public and / or private Cloud service providers. Rather than using a single Cloud vendor for the full technology stack, businesses can combine different services for two or more vendors to suit their unique needs. This is sometimes combined with a hybrid Cloud strategy (combining on-site equipment with Cloud solutions) for further benefits.
Why Choose a Multi-Cloud Strategy?
There are many reasons why a business may choose to work with multiple Cloud vendors. Often, the main considerations are the features offered by each vendor. One provider may have a best-in-class solution that satisfies one business need, and a second vendor may have a solution for another need. By adopting a multi-cloud strategy, the business does not have to sacrifice one for the other; it can use the best solutions from both providers.
Another common reason for using multiple Cloud service providers is cost-optimization. In many cases, by working with multiple providers, businesses can pick and choose the solution that best suits their budget. In addition, avoiding vendor lock-in helps encourage providers to be more competitive with their pricing.
There are many other reasons for adopting such a strategy ranging from redundancy to improved data availability. Regardless of the specific business case for a given organization, one thing is clear: businesses see value in using a multi-cloud strategy.
What Does the Future Hold for Multi-Cloud?
In March 2018, Cisco declared “multi-cloud is the new normal.” By this point, 85% of Cloud adopters were using more than one Cloud provider. Since then, the trend has only continued. More Cloud users have adopted a multi-cloud approach and, perhaps more significantly, the total number of Cloud adopters has increased too.
There is a strong possibility this trend will continue as it is unlikely that businesses will revert back to working with a single Cloud vendor.
Why This Trend Will Likely Continue
In 2021, approximately 94% of enterprises are using at least one Cloud service. In addition, an increasing number of organizations are transitioning from simply using the Cloud to centering their technology stacks around the Cloud. As businesses take a more focused and thoughtful approach to Cloud computing, the advantages of a multi-cloud strategy are multiplied.
Greater competition in the Cloud arena is beneficial for client businesses, too. This means organizations are incentivized to use multi-cloud strategies today and in the future.
Concerns Over the Future of Multi-Cloud
Working with multiple Cloud vendors is not a cure-all for problems with Cloud computing. In fact, in a few ways, it can increase risks related to the Cloud. Having multiple vendors means significantly increased complexity in the technology stack. This is further compounded if a hybrid-cloud model is also used.
Although increased complexity might raise security concerns related to multi-cloud models, proper Cyber Security and Cyber Security training will appease those doubts. Additionally, the big three Cloud providers, Amazon; Microsoft; and Google, invest significantly into providing top-tier security. Cloud computing courses for IT professionals guarantee that companies will succeed in the multi-Cloud.
Using a multi-cloud strategy is the new normal and will continue to be. The upsides of using multiple vendors are significant and these risks can be mitigated as strategies become more mature.
Learn About the Latest Trends and Technologies in Cloud Computing and IT
Being ready for the new normal in IT means getting the right training and certifications. Anyone entering the IT field should seek out expert training in Cloud, Cyber Security, Networking and more. Adding high-quality Cloud computing courses to expand your skill set is certain to open up new career opportunities now and in the future.
