Information Technology is a very vibrant field with innovations coming up every day. So, it is not unusual to come across terms that sound like jargon. Understanding the language can help you determine the services your business needs. Here are some common IT phrases and how they are relevant to organizations today.
- Cloud Computing
Refers to the practice of storing files and software on remote servers rather than the server on your business premises. Most businesses choose to back up their information on a cloud platform. In case of a disaster, you can retrieve critical customer data to keep your business running smoothly.
Cloud computing offers more speed and flexibility than using local servers or your personal computer. As a result, it can reliably support media streaming and deliver software applications on demand.
- Managed Services IT
Managed IT is the process of delegating the role of maintaining the IT infrastructure to a provider. It may involve various services, such as remotely monitoring your local servers and desktops.
Typically, a managed services provider will have vast experience and skills to address issues with your IT infrastructure. For example, delegating some IT functions to a provider is suitable for small businesses without in-house personnel or computing resources.
Small businesses often need the skills of managed services in IT to meet cybersecurity policies and compliance requirements. According to Connectwise, regulatory compliance “requires the expertise and experience that a managed service provider can offer.”
- Disaster Recovery as a Service
Disaster Recovery refers to the capacity to restore business functions after an accident or disaster. The objective is to reduce downtimes and the losses that come with it.
However, Disaster Recovery as a Service describes the deployment of policies and procedures to facilitate Disaster Recovery. DRaaS differs from cloud computing in that it includes a hybrid of cloud servers and virtualization. It mimics your IT infrastructure to enable faster information retrieval and reduce downtimes.
- Virtualization and Virtual Machines
Virtualization is the simulation of hardware functionality, such as your server, to create a virtual computing system. Virtualization allows businesses to use different operating systems and run virtual machines on a single server.
Virtual Machines are ideal for organizations that need to run multiple systems simultaneously. It offers greater flexibility and reduces the company’s overheads when acquiring resources such as servers and disk drives.
- Big Data and Analytics
Big Data refers to an extensive collection of data related to your day-to-day business. It may include both structured and unstructured data. Big Data may also be from various sources such as video, social media comments, or the industrial plant.
Big Data and analytics have become essential for anticipating business risks. Organizations also use Big Data to detect fraud and unearth cybersecurity breaches before they unfold.
- Disruptive Technology
Disruptive technology is an innovation that impacts our approach to business or industrial processes. Some examples of disruptive technologies may include eCommerce or Managed Services IT.
Larger organizations often cannot respond appropriately to new disruptive ideas. However, failing to understand the implications of the technology in your industry can make your business lose its market share.
New terms are bound to crop up in the field of IT, so don’t feel intimidated. Understanding these phrases will allow you to keep up with the latest developments and make informed business decisions.