What are the benefits of cloud-based networking solutions?

Cloud-based networking solutions allow businesses to manage most of their network without the need for physical hardware, and honestly, who wants to deal with that anymore? Instead of relying on those onsite servers and clunky devices, cloud networks use virtual components hosted by providers.

The big win here? You don’t need to house physical servers or worry about constant hardware upgrades. With cloud-based networking, tasks like routing and load balancing are handled remotely.

What you’ll get from this post:

• Why cloud-based solutions are the answer to modern business network needs
• How it all works, including the different cloud-based networking types and technologies
• What makes cloud-based infrastructure worthwhile
• How cloud infrastructure fairs against on-premises infrastructure
• What Meter can offer your cloud network

What role do cloud-based networking solutions play in modern businesses?

Many businesses still use hybrid or on-prem systems for certain needs, but cloud networking is becoming a popular choice. Using traditional, hardware-based setups can slow you down, like running a race in heavy boots.

Cloud networking is more like running in lightweight shoes, letting businesses adapt easily without the extra hardware costs.

Scalability is easier than ever

The ability to scale at a moment’s notice makes cloud networks a no-brainer. Imagine expanding your business and needing more network resources. With old-school setups, that means buying new hardware, waiting for installation, and hoping nothing goes wrong. In the cloud? A few clicks, and you’re good to go.

Pay for what you use

Cost is another big reason cloud networks are stealing the spotlight. Instead of sinking a ton of money into gear that might sit unused for months, cloud-based solutions let you pay as you go. Need more resources? Pay for them when you need them, not before. It just makes sense.

Remote work is the future

Remote work isn’t going away anytime soon, and cloud networks make it ridiculously easy for employees to access everything from anywhere. Your team stays connected no matter where they are. There’s less need for VPNs or trying to explain to Bob in IT why you can’t connect to the server again. Everything is right there, accessible, and secure, without the hassle of old-school remote setups.

Security is at the forefront

Security isn’t an afterthought, either. Cloud providers are on top of their game when it comes to keeping things safe. You don’t have to worry about a hacker sneaking in while you’re figuring out the best way to handle an on-premise firewall thanks to:

• Encryption
• Real-time monitoring
• Built-in threat detection

Let the cloud experts handle it so you can focus on your business.

How do cloud-based networking solutions work?

Cloud-based infrastructure takes everything that used to live in bulky hardware and moves it to the cloud. No more wrestling with cables or trying to keep track of which router does what. Now, everything is managed from a handy cloud platform, and you don’t have to be chained to a server room to keep it running.

Think of cloud-managed networking like the ultimate remote control for your network. All the operations—routing traffic, managing security—happen through a dashboard you can access anywhere.

Whether you’re in the office or on a beach (hopefully with Wi-Fi), you can tweak, monitor, and update your network in real time. No need to send someone to reboot a router in the middle of the night. It’s like magic, but with fewer sparks and more reliability.

The different types of cloud networks

Cloud networks generally fall into three categories:

• Public cloud networks (like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud) share infrastructure with other users, making it a flexible and affordable way to scale when needed.
• Private cloud networks give you full control and high-level security, which is great for businesses with sensitive data needing a custom setup.
• Hybrid cloud networks combine the flexibility of public clouds with the security of private ones, letting you manage both while protecting important data.

Meter focuses on making network management simple, especially for Wi-Fi and LAN setups. We know managing a network can be a headache, so we step in to make it easier.

Instead of having you handle routers, switches, and complex configurations, we offer solutions that scale with your business.

With Meter’s cloud-based tools, you can monitor and manage your network from anywhere. Your IT team will appreciate not having to untangle cables or chase down rogue devices on the weekend!

Technologies driving cloud networks

Software-defined Networking (SDN) is like setting your network to autopilot. Instead of fussing over cables and hardware, you can manage everything—routing, security, the whole works—through software from a single dashboard. It's basically the "remote control" for your network.

Meter makes network management simpler. Our cloud-based tools let you monitor and manage your network without having to dig into the weeds. You can make adjustments from anywhere, and you won’t need a PhD in engineering to do it.

Network Function Virtualization (NFV) is all about turning those bulky physical devices—like firewalls and load balancers—into virtual ones that live in the cloud. Say goodbye to your data center looking like a warehouse of overpriced tech gear.

Traditional setups are a thing of the past

Traditional networks require physical hardware, which means businesses must invest in routers, switches, and servers. Maintenance, upgrades, and scaling are time-consuming and costly.

Cloud networks eliminate these limitations by virtualizing network functions. They offer on-demand scalability and remote management tools, streamlining operations and reducing infrastructure burdens.

Benefits of cloud-based networking solutions

Cloud infrastructure comes with a lot of perks that make managing a modern business network a whole lot easier. Imagine being able to expand your network without constantly buying new hardware or having to be chained to the office to fix an issue.

If you want to grow your business without dealing with hardware or need better control of your network from anywhere, cloud networking is a smart choice. Reasons why businesses are making the switch:

• Cloud-based infrastructure makes it simple to add bandwidth, security, or speed without buying new hardware.
• You save money upfront by paying only for the resources you use, which lowers long-term costs.
• Employees can safely access company data from anywhere without using complex VPNs or extra equipment.
• Cloud protections like encryption and threat detection keep your data secure without needing extra tools.
• Manage and update your network from a single dashboard, and automatic updates take care of security patches for you.

All of these benefits add up to less hassle and more control for your business. Cloud-based networking solutions allow you to grow at your own pace without constant hardware upgrades or being tied down by technical issues. Your IT team gets a break, your budget gets a boost, and your employees can work securely from anywhere.

Cloud-based networking solutions vs. on-premises infrastructure

Choosing between cloud-based networking and on-premises infrastructure is like picking between a furnished apartment or a house that needs constant upkeep. Both have benefits, but cloud-based options give you more flexibility without the big upfront costs and maintenance.

Upfront costs vs. pay-as-you-grow

On-premises setups need a lot of money upfront for hardware and a data center. Cloud-based networking avoids these big costs, letting you pay as you go. It's like choosing a flexible monthly plan instead of a huge down payment.

Cloud protections like encryption and threat detection keep your data safe without extra tools. You can manage and update your network from one dashboard, and security patches update automatically.

Forget the toolbox – focus on business

Running an on-prem network is like owning an old car—you’re responsible for every repair and update. With cloud-based solutions, maintenance is included. Your provider handles the tech, so your team can focus on what really matters, not chasing down the latest patch or fixing broken hardware.

Scaling is just a click away

Scaling on-prem infrastructure is like adding rooms to a house—it takes time and costs a lot. Cloud networks let you grow quickly with just a few clicks, so your business can expand without waiting for new equipment or setup.

Built-in security without the stress

On-premises networks depend on your team for security, which adds a lot of work. Cloud providers include security features like encryption and threat detection, so your data stays safe. It's like getting a built-in security system without the extra effort.

Meter can expand your cloud-based networking solutions

Meter helps businesses transition to cloud-based networking solutions, giving you the flexibility to scale your network, strengthen security, and reduce management hassles. With our tools, your IT team can focus on other priorities instead of spending time on hardware upkeep. We make it easy to manage your network, so you can concentrate on growing your business.

Features that address your network needs:

• Scalability on demand: Quickly expand your network resources as your business grows without waiting for hardware installations.
• Cost-efficient pay-as-you-go model: No more upfront costs—only pay for the resources you need when you need them.
• Remote network management: Monitor and adjust your network from anywhere using the Meter dashboard—no more late-night server reboots.
• Built-in security: Along with encryption and threat detection, Meter offers DNS security features to protect your network from potential attacks like DNS spoofing or cache poisoning.
• Remote access: Allow your team to securely connect from anywhere, eliminating the need for clunky VPNs and extra hardware.
• Ongoing support and optimization: After installation, we provide guidance and periodic maintenance to keep your network running at its best.

Ready to simplify your network? Request a demo today and see how Meter can help you optimize your cloud-based network for the future.