Article

What to Expect from Cloud Computing in 2024

Despite its rapid growth, cloud computing is still getting started, and according to the latest tech trends, it’s set to continue transforming our digital routines.  

Here’s what you can expect from cloud computing trends in 2024. 

1. Increase Use of Edge Cloud Computing 

Edge cloud computing involves strategically choosing cloud resources that are physically close to where you operate. So, instead of having to wait for data to traverse hundreds or thousands of miles, you can take advantage of a data center in the next town over. 

The increase in the number of data centers will make this more feasible for more businesses in 2024. Many companies will need edge cloud infrastructures to enable real-time computations and decision-making.  

Automated systems, from self-driving vehicles to enterprise resource planners (ERPs), often need quick data processing to produce split-second outcomes. To meet this need, edge cloud solutions will enable deeper digitalization in 2024. 

2. Specialized Compliance Mechanisms 

Compliance requirements apply to pretty much every industry, and many companies could benefit from automated systems to help keep them in line.  

Cloud computing is in an ideal position to provide compliance management solutions, since it handles so much data and business-critical communications. 

For example, cloud providers could give healthcare organizations communications infrastructures that have already incorporated HIPAA standards. Instead of worrying whether data has been properly encrypted or if it’s being stored for the right amount of time, a hospital or clinic can rely on the cloud provider to check off the necessary compliance boxes. 

3. Energy-Efficient Data Centers 

Cloud computing can get very energy-intensive, both in terms of producing computational power and keeping servers cool. Data centers may start shifting more of their energy sourcing to sustainable, efficient power. 

It remains to be seen how this may impact the cost of cloud services. But if you’re like many companies, paying a little extra for a more efficient cloud provider may be worth the investment.

4. Incorporating 5G with Cloud Solutions 

5G networks use higher frequency signals to send data to nearby devices. This makes it possible for cities and towns to incorporate smart travel, recreation, and safety systems that depend on mobile data and connectivity.  

Cloud solutions allow more municipalities to combine 5G with the tech they need to make people’s lives easier and more efficient. 

For instance, a bus system can use 5G to send location data for each of its vehicles, as well as information regarding how much fuel they have, the number of passengers, stops remaining in their route, and far more. Companies that provide 5G-enabled services combined with cloud computing will be in a powerful position in 2024 and subsequent years. 

5. Faster Digital Transformations 

A digital transformation and application modernization initiative can often take a long time, but in 2024, the cloud will enable quicker digital overhauls. Even though each digital transformation is unique, many of them use similar cloud-based tools. This means cloud providers can, over time, design infrastructures that work for more and more business models. 

For instance, cloud providers will have ready-made disaster recovery solutions, data analytics systems, and DevOps environments. Instead of having to wait several months for your digital transformation to be complete, it could take just a few weeks—or less. 

6. Improvements to Data Privacy 

Since cloud computing often involves a single point of failure, data privacy will play an increasingly crucial role in 2024. The single point of failure issue is significant because if a hacker can access your cloud resources, they may be able to steal a wide range of information. 

Cloud data privacy in 2024 will likely feature: 

  • More zero-trust architecture, which involves presuming that every person and system that interacts with your data is a threat 
  • Advanced encryption algorithms that make it harder than ever before for hackers to decrypt stolen information 
  • Identity and access systems that use multifactor authentication and biometrics to keep attackers out 

7. Stronger Cloud Security 

In 2024, cybersecurity experts will provide a wider range of protective technologies to keep your operations safe. For instance, since so many companies use the cloud to store sensitive data, a wider range of data loss prevention (DLP) technologies will be available to keep your data safe in place and in transit. 

Also, as cloud infrastructures get more intricate, providers will make it easier to position firewalls in front of sensitive assets and processes.  

For example, if you need to secure customer payment information as well as customer data, you’ll be able to request unique firewalls for each instead of trying to use a single firewall to safeguard multiple processes. Cloud providers will make this kind of enhanced protection increasingly easier in 2024. 

8. AI- and ML-Ready Infrastructure 

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) require specialized computational resources to function properly, and cloud providers will be establishing higher-powered systems to meet the rise of AI and ML in 2024. 

In many cases, a machine learning system needs to analyze huge volumes of data to provide insights to its designers. As more companies use ML in the cloud in 2024, cloud providers will beef up their servers to shoulder the workload. 

For companies that need real-time insights to make decisions, more powerful cloud capabilities will play a particularly important role. For example, suppose a large shipping company needs the freedom to optimize its pricing model in response to a combination of orders placed, the vehicles available, their energy efficiency, and even the pay rates of different drivers.  

While an ML-powered system can certainly handle the complexity of this kind of solution, it may need higher-powered cloud computing to deliver insights to decision-makers. 

Get Ready for the Future of Cloud Computing Now 

These are just a few cloud computing trends that could impact your business this year, but how you decide to leverage the cloud depends on your business model, goals, and the customers you serve.  

At Evergreen, we specialize in delivering solutions that lay the foundation for your cloud journey, completely tailored to meet your unique business needs. Ready to get started? Contact us today.