Innovative Cloud Computing Services

As the world is preparing for various advancements in computer technology, Josh Butikofer, Adaptive Computing’s Chief Solutions Architect puts forward his views for the development and future of cloud computing for 2012. Some of his predictions include the following:-

● The industry will shift from pilots and POC’s to transformational private clouds 
● There might be shake outs amidst cloud vendors, especially smaller organizations 
● Asia Pacific region would emerge as a successor in cloud implementations 
● Cloud bursting will reappear

Along with datacenter activities such as datacenter consolidation and virtualization, the modern day business scenario has led to other computing trends as well. With the added financial pressures that businesses are witnessing, it is expected that there will be true production roll-outs across major financial services organizations in 2012. Between, 2010-11 there were a number of Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) clouds executed to experiment with the amount of workload that a data center can migrate.

Transformational clouds are set up to shift the entire data center progressively into cloud. This is going to be one of the most pertinent trends that will emerge in 2012. This is more so the case, as organizations are gradually realizing that the time for evaluation is over. Enterprises thus are going to act fast in order to save million dollars per year.

Therefore, major IT players have been acting upon these trends. With Green IT also being one of the prime concerns of 2012 IT companies specializing in cloud computing services are working hard to develop themselves as a cloud computing partner. Services offered by these enterprises help their customers to adopt Cloud by carrying out assessment services on workloads and transferring them to appropriate Cloud environments, such as Private, Public or Hybrid. The cloud computing services portfolio includes the following:-

Strategy
● Cloud Strategy Development 
● Infrastructure & Workload assessment

Assessment
● Risk and compliance assessment 
● Process-IT service assessment 
● Design & System integration of private cloud  
● EPaaS (Platform as a Service) & IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service)

Implementation & Migration
● Application migration services 
● Multi-vendor ITIL process implementation 
● Risk and Compliance control implementation

Monitoring, Management & Support
● Cloud Service Management Platform 
● Monitoring and Management 
● Service catalog, dashboard, reporting

Leading service providers in cloud computing services has a global partner ecosystem that comprises ISV’s, OEM’s and Public cloud vendors. These partnerships enable users to realize the best value and return they make in Cloud investments. Furthermore, this partnership also facilitates Hybrid cloud environments for users making the best use of the present investments. At the same time, it offers effortless management of cloud and legacy infrastructure. 

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Managed Security Services

IT outsourcing

Benefits of Information Security Solutions

What is that one key element that drives your business? The answer is “information”. That is because most enterprises are not able to operate without this essential ingredient. Hence, the availability, confidentiality and integrity of information are of great importance. It is thus essential to have an idea that whether your company is taking proper care of all the data that it has acquired over all these years.

Every manufacturing, sales, financial, and customer records are stored on computers. In today’s highly networked world, you can have access to them from anywhere through the internet. However, it is tough to be certain that all the digitized data is safe and secure. All confidential and personal records will be kept with insurance, finance companies or banks. Things like medical records stay with laboratories and hospitals, credit cards needs to be tendered when you purchase online. The question that often comes to mind is that whether there is any assurance that all these data are kept safe and confidential? This is where information security services come into play.

Given the present day circumstances, it is essential that organizations look out for partners that can work to establish a business aligned information security framework and enhance the ROSI, i.e. Return On Security Investment. Today eminent service providers having the capacity to server their clients on an ongoing basis are fast becoming the choice of the most enterprises.

The wide range of security solutions offered by these service providers makes them more of a partner than a mere provider. The difference can be experienced from the unique and varied customer insights backed up by strengths and validated by a unique customer experience. Some of the information security benefits are listed below:-

* Information security solutions helps to establish business industry vertical aligned Information Security Framework

* Lesser investments on new technology

* The solutions have the capacity to manage intricate multi-vendor and heterogeneous client environments

* Helps to minimize operation expense and leads to hassle free handling of domain experts

* There is no affect of attrition and there is increased profitability and efficiency

These service providers have the capacity to cater to all the information security requirements across all industry verticals, along with an excellent partnering approach and quality delivery. These service providers also specializes in a wide range of service portfolio’s that include Identity and Access Management, Information Security Consulting, Cloud Computing Services, Managed Security Service and many others.

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IT Outsourcing

Green Datacenter

Managed Hosting Services for Small and Large Scale Business

The online trade and commerce portals and businesses today are experiencing major pressure from various ends. It is essential for them have a regular standard suite to fulfill and cater to the competition as well as satisfy their clients and customers and their ever changing demands. This does not appear like providing an easy solution only. In fact, for this it is essential to loosen up on the difficulties and arrive at a smooth ride ahead. There are several business owners that have realized today the significance of having a managed hosting server. The servers available in similar web host plan assure that excess pressure from the IT corner is reduced and a greater importance is given to the important business aspects.
 
Whether it is the server, database, software or any other type of component or application, the managed hosting services assures that it offers a huge amount of operation efficiency to every user and to the companies that are relying on it completely.

Eminent service providers of cloud computing services today offer managed hosting servers that offers a network capacity that are approximately ten times more than that of a huge corporate city building. This capacity comes along with high individual environmental controls as well as advanced quality 24 x 7 assistance. Furthermore, it provides savings up to 30 per cent on operation and long-term capital expenses. Other components are listed below:-

 
Data Centre Hosting Facility 
* Raised Floor Space
* Dual Power Feed
* VESDA fire detection service
* Loading Bay area for asset lift and shift
* 42 U standard Racks/Cage
* Physical Access Security through swipe cards
* Generator and UPS capacity
* Fire suppression using fog or FM200 gas
* Structured Cabling – Cat 6 & Fibre (Sizing/Provisioning/Management)

 
Professional services 
* Onsite Hands & Feet support
* Tape backup Media handling services
* Network/security support
* Reporting
* Equipment Handling & Management

 
Optional services 
Aperture tool for Rack floor planning and ongoing maintenance
Managed hosting services are an appropriate option for small scale businesses that does not intend to spend a huge amount on web hosting services. At the same time, the large scale business enterprises that require a comprehensive integration of the requirements of the IT field can also be managed by such hosting services. Service providers of managed hosting servers also specialize in identity and access management solutions.

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service desk 

green datacenter

Be Energy Efficient with the Green IT Approach

Years ago Bill Gates predicted the presence of PC’s in every residence. Many opined that Bill Gates was merely promoting an unlikely situation of reaping in the benefits for Microsoft. Nevertheless, he was true in his estimation. Today not only our household, every organization is heavily dependent on the personal computer. There are cases when our computing devices are turned on unnecessarily in our home. However, for enterprises there are scopes for impacting the energy use, the public image, recycling and witness benefits by a streamlined Green IT approach.

Simply put Green IT refers to maximizing energy efficiency of the IT Data Centers, IT Hardware and other allied assets. Eliminating wastage of electronic parts forms a huge part of Green IT since it comprises of huge quantities of renewable and non-renewable sources of platinum and silicon. Eminent IT brand names that specialize in the modern day cloud computing services as well as managed hosting services profess the importance of Green IT not only in terms of energy efficiency but also focusing on the data center operations.

A Data center is a crucial part that leads to enterprise expansion. Going by a survey conducted by the AFCOM Data Center Institute, approximately 50 percent of each dollar that is used for purchasing a new server gets added on to the energy to cool and power it. Furthermore, the Lean & Green group previously predicted that as 2008 comes to an end, the server powering expense may surpass the server cost itself. Going by other reports, it is estimated that Data centers consume approximately between 1.5 and 3 percent of the overall power annually generated in U.S. When calculated and compared this is found to be equivalent to the amount of power required in Michigan for a year. Hence, one of the prime objectives of green datacenter is efficient power management. Simple everyday actions, for instance, switching of the unused PC’s, lights and other equipments are small actions leading to major changes.

The way to be able to manage the difficulties of turning a Data Center Green is adopt a holistic approach. An organization must take into consideration the overall environmental impact than just concentrating on the obvious objectives. There are cases when a plan made on paper resulted in miraculous outcome than expected. Hence, planning and deploying initiatives in a systematized manner is the key to clean, energy efficient and Green IT.

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Managed print services

Datacenter Virtualization 

Trends in Cloud Computing Services

Today, the concept of cloud computing is nothing new and has brought about a great amount of commercial success in the past few years. It is expected that cloud computing will play a significant role on the ICT domain for the upcoming decade or even more. This is because the future systems will be equipped with the abilities of resource provisioning and managed services.

Cloud computing has generated enough commercial interest not only because it allows high chances of IT outsourcing for minimizing management overhead and expand the existing but limited IT infrastructure but also because they help to bring down the entrance barrier for the new service providers to provide their solutions in order to expand the market with a bare minimum entry price and infrastructure needs. It is a fact that the special capacities of the cloud architecture enable the providers with the chance to experiment with certain kinds of novel services simultaneously minimizing the chances of wasting resources.

However, today we have organizations that rank first in broaching up the subject of Applications and Infrastructure incorporation, and set up models for Business Ready Infrastructure as well partner with the ISV’s and technology based companies to come up with cloud computing services, service operating models and other delivery platforms. These companies act as the Cloud service partners for numerous global organizations with their systematized strategy and offerings.

The cloud computing solutions offered by these companies are all set to alter the manner in which the computing resources are being utilized. The service portfolio includes the following as listed below:-

* Cloud Assessment
* Cloud Implementation
* Cloud Migration
* Cloud Service Management for Private, Public or Hybrid Cloud

At the same time, these companies assist their clients to adopt Cloud by carrying on assessment services on the workloads and then transferring them to appropriate cloud environments. At the same they allow Enterprise Platform as a Service (EPaas) as well as Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). They also specialize in innovative managed security services.

However, Cloud systems should not be confused with just any other type of resource provisioning architecture. Cloud computing services has definite features that distinguishes it from the conventional resource and other service provisioning environment and offers effortless management of Cloud as well as legacy architecture.

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Datacenter Hosting

Managed desktop services 

Asset Management Solutions for Business Reinforcements

A business is largely dependent on IT assets such as hardware and software to pursue and achieve its long-term goals. A combination and collaboration between these assets is necessary to ensure the fulfillment of the goals. There is never an ideal situation where all the assets are compatible and a cohesive environment is fostered. Due to the changing dynamics the business has to constantly keep updating its processes with advanced assets that provide better scope for enjoying more enriching returns. The potential security risks looming in the vicinity are immense which calls for a proactive attitude and robust solutions that helps in establishing a vigilant and compliant environment.

The cloud computing model has proved to be a great advantage for businesses as it renders cost-efficient and effective asset management solutions. It provides capable asset discovery services and helps in creating and maintaining hardware and software libraries. It provides the best solutions for configuration management, software license management, procurement management, request and approval process management, contract management, supplier and vendor management, re-deployment and disposal management.

The cloud computing services are promptly furnished on-demand without any delays. The services are latest based on real-time reports thus giving the businesses an opportunity to make quick and critical decisions with the prospects of making decisive impacts. The businesses that employ the cloud computing model are guaranteed complete security with stringent and exacting security standards. An integrated infrastructure is deployed which encourages compatibility with all the existing business applications and network systems. The processes are simplified and easy to operate thus delivering a unique and enriching user experience.

A streamlined and automated IT outsourcing asset management process is deployed which leverages the help desk efficiency and delivers excellent performances. The users can easily search for solutions, create requests, report incidents and review the status of the submitted reports. The cloud computing model is also helpful during any accidental mishaps or unwarranted circumstances as it helps to restore the normal operations without wasting much time or causing any adverse effects on the business.

Asset management is an overwhelming challenge that can misguide the business processes. Errors cannot be afforded as every minute of the production process is precious. Carelessness or a negligent attitude can result in time-wasting methods that will yield no results. Cloud computing is the best option that helps businesses to move in the right direction steadily, securely and with a well-thought strategy. It is advisable to implement solutions that enhance efficiency and help in empowering the businesses.

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Green Datacenter

Service Desk

Gaining Extra Mileage with Remote Infrastructure Management

As the competition in the business world is gaining pace it is becoming extremely difficult to implement models for generation of high quality results without any daunting demands on cost. It has become a truly intimidating challenge for the businesses to incorporate new and better methodologies without affecting the finances. Many businesses seeking alternative modes for increasing their prospects have adopted the remote infrastructure service model that has produced some appealing results and is being widely accepted as one of the means to earn handsome profits.

As the number of mobile workforce is increasing daily a business has to also ensure that the IT services are provided to this section to facilitate their operations even while on the move without causing any detrimental effects. In such a scenario remote infrastructure is a necessity that can help the mobile employees stay in touch and continue their normal work smoothly. Remote infrastructure management has also helped businesses to save their costs on IT infrastructure. Although this model has shown some remarkably positive results there are few issues that cast some doubts such as security and integrity, inadequate supply of skilled professionals, proficient tools and physical infrastructure.

Every business that adopt remote infrastructure management services should be furnished with highly integrated tools that demonstrate high levels of intelligence and insight that render optimum results. These tools should follow an automated process that ensures maximization of processes and resources, and leverages efficiency. The tools must deliver real-time reports that are required for critical business decisions. A standardized process must be enforced and a high level of network security is essential.

IT businesses can enjoy the benefits of remote infrastructure services with the help of the cloud computing model. This model provides conducive conditions for high levels of integration in applications and infrastructures. The responses are quick, and relevant due to the real-time facilitation of latest and updated information, and this is a great advantage for businesses as they can make critical decisions to help augment their performances. Storage capacity is no longer an issue as the cloud computing platform is equipped to handle any requirement or demand. It provides on-premise deployment facilities and furnishes on-demand services without any delays.

The cloud computing services maintain stringent security parameters with honorable, reliable and consistent monitoring, authentication and assessment capabilities, and provide relief to businesses from malicious intentions. Cloud computing is also considered a favorable option that helps in carrying out healthy IT operations with less energy consumption.

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Managed Print Services

Identity and access management

The Significance of Green IT in the Data Center

Essentially green IT focuses on the use of Information Technology in an efficient manner that concentrates on energy savings. Going Green can be both environmentally responsible and cost efficient for the enterprise. A successful green initiative not only increases the availability of IT infrastructure but also helps reduce costs for the enterprise. True green IT focuses on reducing the carbon footprint and goes further to educate and engage the community in the ways of green computing to give back to the community and the environment. It can also be a platform to bring in a new level of discipline in IT provisioning and management. Green IT has tremendous significance, whether you're looking at specific practices from power management to virtualization or taking a top-level look at corporate sustainability goals.

The Green Data Center

Data centers represent the starting point for green IT initiatives in most companies. Data centers are found in nearly every sector of the economy, including financial services, media, high-tech, universities, and government institutions. An efficient, well-designed datacenter is important for every organization as it can reduce down-time, enhance output and reduce operation and maintenance costs. Perhaps the biggest benefit is that a properly maintained datacenter can save significant capital expenditures by eliminating the need for upgrades.

The key aspect to achieving a Green Data Center is power management. A green data center is a repository for the storage, management, and dissemination of data in which the mechanical, lighting, electrical, and computer systems are designed for maximum energy efficiency and minimum environmental impact. As companies spend the same on cooling in the data centre as they do on electronics, there is a need to optimize and take the green initiative. Among the other widely reported practices, companies are using to green their IT departments are power management and the adoption of cloud computing services, or Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) projects. Looking at more long term solutions, the data center footprints can be transformed more sustainable strategies like consolidation and virtualization.

Is virtualization the answer?

By virtualizing, a single piece of hardware functions as multiple pieces. Different user interfaces isolate portions of the hardware, and make each one operate as a separate entity. In data centers, installing virtual infrastructure allows more operating systems and applications to run on fewer servers, which reduces overall energy use and cooling requirements. Virtualization will be the highest-impact trend changing infrastructure and operations through 2012, according to Gartner, as it has the potential to play a much larger role in the quest towards Green Information Technology (IT).

Data center managers will not replace their existing management tools and vendors will have to work to cover more platforms and help customers manage heterogeneous environments. An enterprise must look at all the aspects of the environmental impact to achieve energy efficient and clean IT.

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IT Outsourcing

Service desk