Updated October 2026. Originally published January 30, 2025.
Moving from traditional, on-premises IT to cloud computing has become a strategic decision for businesses of every size. In Flexera's 2026 State of the Cloud survey of more than 750 cloud decision-makers and users, 73% of organizations reported operating hybrid environments that combine cloud and on-premises systems (Flexera). The advantages are real, and getting them depends on understanding what the cloud does and does not take off your plate.
The core benefits of cloud computing
Cost efficiency. The cloud removes the need to buy and maintain servers, along with the space, cooling, electricity and periodic upgrades they require. NIST defines cloud computing by characteristics including rapid elasticity and measured service (NIST), which means you pay for what you use. Savings do take oversight: 85% of organizations call managing cloud spend a top challenge, and Flexera found wasted cloud spend rising to 29% (Flexera).
Stronger security, shared responsibility. Major providers secure the physical datacenters, networks and host servers, and for software-as-a-service they also manage the operating systems. You always keep responsibility for your data, devices, user accounts and access controls (Microsoft). CISA publishes free secure configuration baselines for Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace to help organizations set those controls correctly (CISA).
Better disaster recovery. Data stored in a provider's datacenters is protected from local events such as fire, flooding or storm damage that can take down a business relying only on an on-site server. Because your data remains your responsibility (Microsoft), a separate backup of cloud data is still wise.
Flexibility and accessibility. When a tornado warning or a snowstorm keeps people home, staff can keep working from anywhere with an internet connection. Remote work is now routine: in June 2026, 52.5% of workers in financial activities teleworked (BLS).
Scalability. Add users, storage or computing power when demand grows, and scale back when it falls, without buying hardware.
Transition challenges and solutions
Moving mail servers and file systems to the cloud is not as simple as buying a license and clicking a button. It takes careful planning to move data accurately and on schedule, set permissions correctly, and keep the business running during the cutover. Users also need training on the new way of working, from opening shared files to managing who can access them. Starfish Computer understands these details and guides you through them.
Cloud solutions built for your business
Every business has different needs. Starfish Computer starts by assessing your current systems to determine which are ready for the cloud and which are better suited to a hybrid approach. For systems that are not cloud-ready yet, we build a roadmap so each step makes sense for your operations and budget.
Partner with Starfish Computer for your cloud transition
Starfish Computer guides businesses through the move to cloud computing so they can take full advantage of it. A personal consultation lets us understand your needs and design a plan that fits your goals. Contact Starfish Computer to schedule an appointment and start planning your move to the cloud.
Protect your business: start with an assessment
The question isn’t whether your business will face a cyber threat, but whether you’ll be ready when it does. Since 1994, Starfish Computer Corporation has helped businesses across Northeast Ohio:
Assess current security posture and risk
Plan a cybersecurity roadmap aligned to NIST CSF 2.0
Implement the right tools and processes for your size and budget
Train your team on today’s threats, including AI-driven scams
Support and improve your security over time
Call (440) 808-0468 or visit starfishcomputer.com to schedule a security assessment.
About the author
R.J. Arhar is President of Starfish Computer Corporation. He has more than 35 years of experience in IT, served as a consultant to the National Institutes of Health, led IT operations for an international security company with more than 8,000 users, and is the author of Attack or Defend – When is Enough Cybersecurity Enough?
This post provides general cybersecurity guidance. Requirements vary by industry and business. Statistics are current as of October 2026; consult Starfish Computer Corporation for a plan tailored to your risk profile.