What exactly is a Hybrid Cloud?

What exactly is a Hybrid Cloud?

With the new digital age upon us, the “hybrid cloud” term is simply everywhere. In fact, hybrid models continue to rank high among the top 10 strategic technology trends. These burgeoning trends have also resulted in countless applications utilizing hybrid models - for deployment across several industries. The current craze has prompted several infrastructure providers to define what “hybrid” really means. While the definitions may differ according to varying interpretations and limitations – channel partners are also struggling to find the best hybrid solutions to best meet their customers’ needs.

According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NSIT)*, the focus should primarily be on the cloud when defining hybrid environments. NSIT describes the “hybrid cloud” as:

• A combination of public, private, and community clouds that are intertwined for optimal compatibility and performance.
• These clouds feature cutting-edge and innovative technologies that enable data and application portability.

While this effectively describes the hybrid cloud as a whole – it does not include managing and transferring applications across cloud and non-cloud environments. This is known as hybridization, which enables:

• A comprehensive and cohesive platform for on-premise and hosted or remote cloud solutions.
• A unified network that incorporates applications, programs, and features across onsite and remote cloud servers and environments.

Hybrid Environments

Even with the hybridization label, however, the demarcation line between onsite and off-site is rapidly diminishing. In fact, physical and local networks are now routinely extended across companies’ onsite data centers and third party sites. This includes WAN, along with firewalls, storage gateways, and application-delivery controllers. These are implemented to enhance network performance, security, and ease of use.

With this in mind, others describe hosting and cloud platforms as un-managed network links. This, of course, is during the initial connection – which must be streamlined and centralized to secure one consistent hybrid environment. Once the parameters and adjustments are set – the links are designed to foster network transparency across a myriad of environment. While this is the ideal scenario, communication and compatibility problems are common. This includes:

• Problems with linkage – inability to enforce network transparency across the board.
• Difficulty in provisioning, managing, and monitoring all machines and applications across third-party cloud environments.
• A more consistent and unified approach that engages partners, telecom agents, IT solution providers, and others involved in cloud deployment services.

The Perfect Hybrid Cloud

With so many definitions and options, how does one select the right hybrid cloud service or environment? According to industry experts, clients must look to the following when assessing provider abilities to deploy fully-functional hybridized solutions:

Flexible Service Options

Hybrid cloud providers must offer services that can meet a full range of requirements. This includes application compatibility, along with managed hosting and collocation services. Whether for public, private, or community based clouds – these services must be easy to access and ensure optimal performance and productivity across the cloud.

Unified Network Fabric

Hybrid specialists must ensure unified networks for deploying services across multiple environments. This includes computing, as well as storage and networking accessibility. Unified networks allow workloads operating in different environments to share the same network elements. This secures consistent connections that rapidly expedite workloads across hosting environments – while reinforcing the level of security required.

User-Friendly Interface

With user-friendly interfaces, customers and partners are able to:

• Easily manage an entire IT infrastructure across a myriad of servers.
• Manage storage capacities and resources via one centralized portal.
• Enable single point of contacts – which eliminates the need for multiple service providers.

Sources:

*http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-145/SP800-145.pdf

 

Meta:

Hybrid Cloud

What exactly is a hybrid cloud?

5 Ways to Optimize Businesses with VoIP Solutions

5 Ways to Optimize Businesses with VoIP Solutions

More businesses are replacing their outdated PBX systems with VoIP than ever before. In fact, the current trend has led to a 17.5 percent growth rate in the market. VoIP streamlines and centralizes communication protocols, while operating over data networks instead of conventional phone lines. Clients also have access to flexible options when integrating VoIP – including file sharing, screen-sharing, and other essential features.

Unlike traditional business phone systems, VoIP is cost-effective and designed to establish uniformity in communications. With voice over Internet protocol, clients are assured:

• Crisp and clear audio and video transmissions.
• File uploads – file sharing – screen shares
• Call-forwarding – instant messaging – easy transfers to extensions.
• Fast processing of voice and other data within a comprehensive and cohesive network.
• When it comes to building a communications network, call quality and optimization are truly the cornerstones. As a result, vendors must provide clients with an array of features that secure real-time access and results. With VoIP, customers can reap the rewards of seamless integration and network optimization – which improves customer service and fulfillment for new and existing clients.

Quality of Service

Quality of Service (QoS) is an important facet of VoIP communications. In fact, it is a vital element in prioritizing voice data over other packets within your network. Instead of transmitting all data packets with the same priority – voice and video calls are given top consideration. This vastly improves call quality and enhances all business communications.

Without effective QoS, networks can experience costly delays and jitter. Voice data problems also serve as obstacles that hinder overall performance and productivity. To prevent customer frustration and miscommunication – QoS effectively addresses latency, packet loss, jitter and unforeseen network bursts.

Grade of Service

The grade of service (GoS) is equally as important as QoS. With grade of service, clients are able to:

•  Improve their call routing capacities.
• Prevent incoming or outgoing calls from dropping due to network congestion.
• Ensure immediate network connections in case calls do get dropped for any reason.
• Secure timely communications with clients and staff for optimal and expedited business.

Update Network Infrastructure

Clients may need to upgrade their network infrastructure to secure optimal compatibility. At times, network hardware and bandwidth simply isn’t enough to facilitate VoIP traffic. This results in loss of call quality, along with dropped calls and network congestion. For clients experiencing these recurring issues, it may be time to invest in new hardware and components.

Upgrading network capacity enables businesses to deal with high call volumes. Similarly, new hardware fosters growth and expansion for businesses, while ensuring there are no hurdles via substandard equipment. In order to make a worthwhile and informed investing decision, clients simply have to analyze their current situation. This includes existing connections, hardware, and even software for running apps and programs.

Codecs

At times, codec upgrades are all clients need to ensure proper functionality and performance. With codec improvements, businesses are guaranteed:

•  Codecs that compress and decompress voice data to improve quality and reduce bandwidth requirements.
• Eliminate the need for sending purely uncompressed data across digital networks.
• A full suite of codecs with different bit and sampling rates – several features.
• G.711.1 codec utilizes more bandwidth than the standard G.711 codec – but improves sound quality.

Streamlining VoIP Infrastructure

Streamlining and centralizing infrastructure can also secure better sound quality. In fact, single vendor solutions are highly recommended for clients that require seamless integration for all applications and functions. Updating software is a great way to keep networks current and performing at peak rates 24/7.

Smooth and Safe Taxi Services in Clifton

Smooth and Safe Taxi Services in Clifton

Clifton taxis are synonymous with safe and affordable transportation .With years of extensive industry experience; area cab drivers have intricate knowledge of all the roads and highways. This enables them to guarantee timely pickups and drop-offs for all new and recurring customers. Whether for airport trips, business meetings, or even daily shopping and errands – you can rely on Clifton taxi drivers to get you there in time. They also assist all passengers with personal belongings, luggage, and baggage during transport. If you are tired of waiting for buses or tubes that do not arrive on time – rediscover the convenience of comfort of local taxi services.

Taxi Services

Clifton taxi services are available 24/7 for all new and existing clients. With ample leg and storage room, customers are assured a safe and smooth ride to all their destinations. This includes business meetings, sporting events, Broadway style shows, and so much more. Taxi drivers are also available for day and casino trips, along with sightseeing or an exciting night on the town. All it takes is one phone call, text, or e-mail to arrange a pickup or drop-off. When it comes to Clifton taxi services, all customers are assured:

• Professional drivers that know the best routes to expedite delivery and drop-off.
• Assistance with baggage –luggage – personal belongings – ample leg and storage room.
• Free Wi-Fi – data ports – amenities.
• Complete fleet of vehicles – SUV, vans, and sedans.
• Prompt and courteous airport services – shows – sporting events – business meetings – family reunions – personal errands and chores.
• Special group rates – discounts for senior citizens and military veterans.

Affordable and Reliable Transportation

There are several benefits of securing Clifton taxi services. For one, you do not have to worry about busy traffic and commute times. You can also avoid long lines at the bus stand, along with overcrowded subways that never arrive on time. Secondly, customers do not have to worry about tolls or driving themselves to area destinations. This saves time and money, along with gas and frustration. With the digital age upon us, customers can reserve a car via instant messaging or social media sites. This secures timely transportation for all events and gatherings – with little no waiting times for available drivers and vehicles. If it’s been a while since you were in a taxi, now is the time to get back to the basics and enjoy Clifton taxi services for all occasions.

York Cars and Taxis

When it comes to safe and affordable taxi services, go no further than York Cars and Taxis. As a reputable and industry leader in public and private transportation services, they continue to receive stellar reviews from countless customers. With a full fleet of top-notch vehicles and fully licensed drivers, York Cars is proud to service the Greater Clifton Area with impeccable transportation services. Whether for personal errands, hospital visits, or airport arrivals and departures – you can depend on York for the best in taxi and private care hire services. Not only are they committed to getting you there on time – they also help customers with anything they need. This includes scheduling for new drop-off and pick-up, along with luggage assistance at airport terminals. For the best taxi services in town, contact York today and get the results you deserve!

3 Things to Consider When Choosing a VoIP System

More businesses are adapting VoIP solutions than ever before. From streamlined platforms to centralized communications - VoIP is truly a cost-effective and flexible alternative to outdated phone systems. Not only does VoIP improve any company’s operational efficiency, it also cuts telecommunication costs and increases overall performance.  As the preferred choice for countless brands and ventures, VoIP easily integrates into any existing telephony system or communications protocol.

Within the VoIP market, however, there are several brands and services available. The only way to secure the best VoIP packages is by conducting intricate and adequate research. This is simply the best way to compare service providers and options, while making a worthwhile and informed decision. When it comes to the right UC system for your business, the following aspects must be kept in mind:

Scalability

When it comes to selecting a VoIP provider, the last things clients need are unreliable systems. They also do not want overly expensive contracts – that lock them into services they do not require. According to IT experts, scalability should be of paramount concern when opting for a UC platform. Clients should also ensure the following before choosing a service provider:

• Cost-affordable VoIP services that promote brand growth and expansion.
• Seamless integration of VoIP into existing telephony and business communications platforms.
•  File sharing – screen sharing – uploads – downloads – and features your company needs.
• SIP Trunking – expand or reduce business lines on an as-need basis.
•   Compatibility between PBX and SIP – flexibility to enhance, edit, or bring on new services.

Hosted vs. On-site Services

When looking for affordable and reliable PBX systems, there are hosted and on-site options available. Both have their unique advantages and disadvantages – and should be taken into consideration when adapting new VoIP platforms. The following are a few options to consider when it comes to on-site or remote services:

Hosted PBX

• Businesses without existing PBX hardware tend to benefit from cloud-hosting services.
• Cloud services are easier to deploy, cost-efficient, and eliminate the need of purchasing new hardware and paying maintenance fees.

On-site PBX

• On-site systems offer more flexibility and better control over private telecommunications networks.
• On-site PBX is the best option for companies that have the means to invest in hardware and maintenance for optimal system functionality.

Deciding between on-site and remote services depends on the particular needs of the company. Clients should also weigh the benefits and risks of deploying these services before signing their names on the dotted line.

Workforce Mobility

Countless companies are also benefitting from mobile work-forces these days. No longer does work strictly have to be done in an in-house manner. With the advent of burgeoning technologies and BYOD policies – employees are able to get work done while on the go. In fact, many are now using their own mobile, wireless, and digital devices from remote venues. With this in mind, businesses are also integrating contact lists, video conferencing, and call-forwarding services for their remote teams.

This allows mobile workers to have the same tools as in-office employees. With modern VoIP features, businesses are also able to secure more freedom and flexibility for workers. They no longer have to invest in expensive tools for mobile work-forces – since the same applications and programs are being utilized across the board.