There are a number of advantages associated with enterprise cloud storage. Access to advanced infrastructure and high scalability are among the key benefits of cloud storage but there are many others too.To enjoy those benefits you must choose a cloud storage provider very carefully. Some companies are apprehensive about moving their data to a public cloud. While some of the concerns might be genuine, a number of them are fallacious. It is important to get your facts right and not go by mere hearsay while a choosing cloud storage service. 


The kind of service that various providers in this niche offer varies in terms of SLA or Service Level Agreements, pricing, features and others. Here are the top factors to consider when choosing a cloud storage provider.

Security
Security is undoubtedly the single-most biggest concern of companies looking to store their data with a cloud service provider. The company you choose must have the expertise and the capability to conducts their business in a very secure environment. In many cases, the providers offer data storage systems at an offsite destination. The onus of checking key functional parameters is on you, the end-user. You will have to run checks for encryption and access to data. You may also have to check how capable the storage infrastructure design is for dealing against natural disasters. 

Make sure you understand the scope of service and what your cloud providing company is responsible for. Additionally, your security concerns when selecting a cloud storage system should include understanding what exactly your cloud provider is responsible for. There are serious variations in this area too among various cloud storage hosting services.

Is the Service Compatible with Mobile Devices
When you choose cloud storage service, it should be mobile friendly too because you will have to share it with your employees who are managing the data and information part of your business. They may have to access the facility frequently from their desks or while on the move through smartphones. Accessing and sharing work on a cloud network naturally means that there will be frequent use of mobile devices for accessing and transferring of data and files. It is therefore important to ensure mobile compatibility of the service provider chosen.

The Cost – Are You Reading It Right?
For companies looking to move their data to cloud storage, the cost of using this service could be a key factor in choosing one provider over the other. However, it is equally important to make sure that you make apples to apples comparison. Don’t just look at the price. Make sure you look at the features offered too. Some low-priced cloud storage service may not include some key services in their plan. Instead of comparing costs, look at the services and features offered to get best value for money.

What Is the Exit Clause In The Contract
Before you finalize the contract with a cloud storage service, make sure that there is an exit clause in place which is in your favor. You should not be bound to a contract that restricts you from moving away if there is any deficiency of service or features. You should have the freedom to move to another service provider if you are not happy with the quality of cloud storage service rendered or if there are any security issues. The movement must be easy, safe and secure.

Research Your Choices 
Finally, make sure that your research the background of the cloud storage services you have shortlisted. Areas to look at closely are security measures, quality of customer service, support offered, security systems, risk management procedures and others. This will help you zero in on the most competent and reliable cloud storage service provider.