How to Set Up a Cloud Server for a Small Business

Installing​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ a cloud server can make your small business operations more efficient in terms of running apps and storing data with high uptime, low cost, and ease of access. One instance of such a scenario is by going for a Dedicated Cloud Server, which, in turn, offers you full control and top-notch performance as you expand your business.

Why a Cloud Server is Important

One of the main advantages of a cloud server is that it enables you to access your business systems from any place in the world. Besides, you cut down on hardware expenses. Also, you enhance your safety measures and backup possibilities. For these reasons, cloud servers are instrumental in business expansion with fewer risks and more uptime.

Step 1: Choose the Right Cloud Server Plan

Evaluate Your Needs

The very first action to undertake is drawing up a list of the functions the cloud server should perform.

Key performance benefits

• Storage needs: Try to figure out the amount of data you will have both now and a couple of years into the future.
• Processing power: The number of users running the app simultaneously should determine your choice of processing power.
• Security requirements: Protecting the data you collect from your clients should be a priority.

Once you have gathered your requirements, goal-oriented plans can be effective for you.

Compare Cloud Hosting vs VPS

The following step will be to understand cloud hosting vs VPS. Resources in cloud hosting are not limited to one machine; instead, they are distributed among several devices. On the other hand, a VPS is located on one device and can only be upgraded to a certain extent. This shows that cloud hosting is more flexible than VPS in terms of uptime and thus is a better fit for businesses that are on the rise.

Step 2: Select a Cloud Provider

Firstly, a cloud provider that can be relied upon must be picked by you. The main factors that you would consider are the provider’s uptime record, support options, and cost. Furthermore, It is also advisable to check for other services such as backups and managed support offered by the same provider.

Key Things to Check

• Customer support: It is through customer support that you will be able to get help from the experts when you need it the most.
• Backup and recovery: One great feature to have in your business is the backup of your data automatically, and getting it restored simply.
• Scalability: By opting for a certain provider, the subsequent question that you need to think about is whether they will give you the freedom to increase resources without difficulty.

After you have taken a look at all these aspects, the next step will be to select the provider that is most suitable for both your needs and the money that you have set ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌aside.

Step​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ 3: Choose Server Specs

After selecting a provider, decide on the size of the server.

Basic Specifications

• Central Processing Unit: It is advisable to choose enough cores so that the application runs smoothly without interruptions.
• Random Access Memory: The higher the RAM, the faster the processing will be for business applications.
• Storage capacity: Selecting a storage capacity should be enough for the data that you have and also allow for the growth that you will have in the future.

Moreover, check if the provider provides SSD for faster access.

Step 4: Set Up the Server

Initial Setup

Firstly, access the dashboard of your provider. After that, choose the operating system that you require, for instance, Linux or Windows.

• Pick a template: This is the software that will be used as a basis for your server.
• Add server name: Put a name that is simple and matches the function of the server.
• Define admin access: One should create an admin user and a password that is both strong and easy to remember.

In addition, create SSH keys to ensure that the remote access is secure. After that, start the server. Your provider will allocate the resources and an IP address.

Step 5: Secure Your Server

The security of the server has to be reliable from day one.

Basic Security Steps

• Firewall: Shut down firewall regulations that allow incoming requests from intruders.
• Updates: It is a must to install the system updates without delay.
• User access: Good practice would be to let only trustworthy users access the system.

Moreover, it is a good idea to enable encryption methods for data that is in transit and stored. Such steps will help to keep business data free from potential attacks.

Step 6: Install Business Apps

Once the server has been made secure, proceed with installing business apps.

Common Apps

• Web servers: Install and use common web servers in order to have a place for sites online and make them available to users.
• Databases: Install MySQL or PostgreSQL if you want to keep data storage.
• ERP or CRM systems: Install business software that the team will utilize daily.

Use the app providers’ configuration manual to be sure that everything is set up correctly. Also check the functionality of each app after installation to confirm that it is working ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌properly.

Step​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ 7: Set Up Backups

Backups act as a safety net that keeps your business free from data loss.

Backup Strategy

• Scheduled backups: Set your backups to take place either daily or weekly.
• Remote storage: Do not store the entire server copies in one place.
• Test restores: At all times, be ready to access your backup data and ensure that everything is working smoothly.

Also, write your backup plan clearly and understandably so that your employees can easily restore the data in case it is lost.

Step 8: Monitor and Maintain

It is necessary to check the well-being of your server after installation.

Monitoring Tips

• CPU and RAM usage: Observe these to prevent heavy and slow operations.
• Disk usage: Make sure that you always have sufficient space.
• Error logs: Look through logs to identify problems before they escalate.

Moreover, set up programs that automatically notify you of any problems that need your attention.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Security Updates: Your server may become a target of malware if you constantly avoid security updates.
• Not Planning for Growth: If you choose to purchase small specifications without considering future growth, your server may be overloaded and thus will fail.
• Weak Access Controls: Do not allow weak passwords and open access. Always follow strict control procedures.

Final Thoughts

With cloud servers, small businesses can be more efficient and flexible. By adhering to these guidelines, you will establish a dependable and secure cloud environment for your team. Proper planning and clear steps make even complicated setups seem manageable in the end.

Choosing services with uptime support and management allows your team to focus on the core work while the cloud server operates smoothly.

Reasons for EstNOC to be of Assistance

If you require professional help in the setup and management of your cloud server and services for cloud computing in Switzerland, EstNOC is the right place to turn to. EstNOC provides dependable cloud services, quick support, and transparent pricing. We are with you at the setup stage and during the routine maintenance so that your business is running without any interruptions.