What is cloud computing?
Cloud computing is the on-demand delivery of computing services over the internet. It includes servers, storage, databases, networking, software, and other IT services. Typically, you only pay for the resources you actually use, which allows you to:
- reduce operational costs,
- manage infrastructure more efficiently,
- quickly scale services based on business needs without large upfront investments.
What are the benefits of cloud computing for businesses?
The cloud enables companies to operate from anywhere and serve customers globally. Here are the seven key benefits.
1. Lower costs
Cloud computing eliminates the need for large investments in physical infrastructure such as servers, maintenance, electricity, and IT staff time. Fixed costs become variable, you only pay for what you use.
2. Speed and flexibility
Most services can be deployed via self-service within minutes. With just a few clicks, you can launch resources in data centres around the world: from testing environments to full-scale production systems.
3. Agility and innovation
The cloud provides access to advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning, data lakes, and artificial intelligence. This enables a faster transition from idea to implementation.
4. Productivity
Cloud computing reduces time-consuming IT administration tasks. IT teams can focus more on business goals instead of maintaining infrastructure.
5. Security
Cloud providers offer advanced security technologies and extensive configuration options. Global data centres offer modern infrastructure, high efficiency, and greater reliability than on-premises solutions.
6. Reliability and business continuity
The cloud allows workloads to be distributed across geographically dispersed data centres and supports high-availability architectures. Data replication across locations protects information even in the case of failure.
7. Scalability on demand
There is no need to invest in excess capacity upfront. Resources can be scaled up or down instantly based on business needs, helping avoid risks during peak periods.
What are the types of cloud computing services?
In short: IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a Service), and SaaS (Software as a Service). Each model offers a different level of control and responsibility.
IaaS – Infrastructure as a Service
You rent IT infrastructure (servers, networks, storage) from a cloud provider and configure it according to your needs. This offers the highest level of flexibility and control.
PaaS – Platform as a Service
An environment for building, testing, and deploying applications without managing the underlying infrastructure. Teams can focus on development rather than server management.
SaaS – Software as a Service
Software delivered over the internet on a subscription basis—without installation or maintenance. The provider handles updates and security.
Examples include email, accounting software, and CRM systems.
How can businesses use cloud computing?
Cloud computing is suitable for organisations of all sizes and industries. Common use cases include:
- application development and deployment – scaling from prototype to production;
- testing environments – cost-efficient infrastructure on demand;
- backup and disaster recovery – secure, geographically distributed storage;
- data analytics and AI – gaining insights through advanced tools;
- media streaming – high-quality content delivery on a global scale;
- SaaS delivery – ensuring users always access the latest version without manual updates.
How is cloud computing growing in Lithuania?
Cloud computing adoption in Lithuania is growing rapidly among both individuals and businesses.
According to data from the Official Statistics Portal, in 2020, one in three people aged 16–74 stored files in online storage services, an increase of 9 percentage points over four years. Among young people aged 16–24, this figure reached 64%.
In the business sector, growth is also evident: at the beginning of 2020, 30.8% of companies used cloud computing services (compared to 22.6% in 2019). The most popular services included:
- email – 24% of companies,
- file storage – 17.7%,
- office software – 15.6%,database hosting – 15.1%,
- financial/accounting software – 13.5%,
- IT capacity for proprietary software – 12.3%,
- CRM systems – 7.4%.
How can Baltic Amadeus help?
Baltic Amadeus is a trusted technology partner helping organisations in Lithuania and the Baltic region unlock the full potential of cloud computing. The company offers a wide range of cloud services: from IT consulting and migration planning to full solution management and support.
Want to learn how the cloud can transform your business? Get in touch with Baltic Amadeus, we'll help you find the optimal solution.
