If you're looking to hop across to the cloud, you're in for a bit of an adventure. It's a journey that needs a good map and some savvy prep before you set sail. Let's talk about five smart moves that'll help you navigate through to a smooth cloud migration:
1. Keep Security a Top Priority
First up, we've gotta talk about keeping things tighter than a lid on a jar of vegemite when it comes to security. Even though you're shifting to Azure, it's crucial to remember that it’s a shared responsibility model, so security's still your slice of pavlova to look after. Microsoft's got your back, but you need to keep a sharp eye out for any sneaky gaps. Think of it as setting up your security fences to keep the sheep safe in their paddock.
2. Address Technical Debt
The next step on your path to a smooth cloud migration is tackling that pesky technical debt. You don't want to be hauling old, clunky software up into the cloud with you if you don’t have too. It's like moving house and bringing along a bunch of gear you never use. Instead, shifting to the cloud is the perfect time for a bit of digital "spring cleaning" - out with the old and in with the new.
Think of it as the perfect chance to chuck out those outdated systems and files you don't need anymore. You wouldn't head into the bush with a dodgy compass, right? Same goes for cloud migration. It's all about looking forward, getting savvy with the latest tech and ways of doing things. Giving the boot to those old archive files and surplus software before you make the move means you're not wasting time or resources and setting up the client's cloud space just right from the get-go.
Ditching the old gear for the latest and greatest means you're hitting the ground running in the cloud, geared up for efficiency and ready to roll with the new ways of working. If you’re unable to clean everything up, consider Azure Virtual Desktop to deliver these resources, which will get you into the cloud whilst you make a next phase modernization plan.
3. Audit Existing Workflow
Ever got halfway to your bach and realised you forgot the fishing rods? That's why we take a good look at our workflows before we start migrating. It's about knowing your terrain inside out to avoid any unwelcome surprises on the way. A bit of prep can save a lot of backtracking!
4. Train Employees for Cloud Competency
Shifting to the cloud is a bit like swapping your rugby boots for a kayak - the basics might be similar, but the techniques can be worlds apart. That's why upskilling your team is crucial. It's all about making sure everyone's ready to paddle together when you hit the cloud waters. A good place to start or continue your learning journey is Microsoft Learn.
5. Leverage Automation
Lastly, let's talk about using tools that make the job easier, like a fish finder that shows you exactly where the big ones are hiding. Automation in cloud migration is a bit like that - it helps streamline tasks, keeps things running smooth, and lets your team focus on the bigger picture stuff, like making sure you're heading in the right direction. Automation tools like Nerdio and Hydra can help you with things like Azure Virtual Desktop or consider some IaC (Infrastructure as Code) approaches.
Navigating Cloud Security Misconceptions:
Some folks are pretty keen on shifting to the cloud, but there's a fair bunch who might be feeling a tad nervous about the whole security scene, even though they're probably using cloud tech in their day-to-days without a second thought. You get some thinking it's all too dodgy, and others reckon once you're up in the cloud, you can kick back and not worry about security. It's crucial to get everyone on the same page and keep a sharp eye on security, no matter where your data lives. Changing minds about the cloud means showing off the good stuff it brings, along with how solid the security can be.
Over at Microsoft, they've got a whopping team of more than 3500 tech whizzes working on Azure's security, which should help everyone breathe a bit easier. But even with that, you've got to look after your own backyard — making sure your setup's as secure as it needs to be. Just throwing open the digital doors willy-nilly with ports like 3389 for RDP without a good security plan? That's a no-go. You've got to stick to the best practices with things like endpoint protection, virtual firewalls using Azure's NSV, multi-factor authentication, and the whole nine yards.
Intune's packed with tools to keep your customers' digital digs and data safe as houses. With conditional access policies, you can keep your security top-notch across the board, even letting you skip MFA for trusted spots. Intune's also there to make sure both company and BYOD devices are up to scratch before they get anywhere near your data.
In the MSP world, having your security game plan down pat is key. A clear, standard approach to security best practices and guiding customers through the cloud switcheroo can smooth out any bumps in the road. Keeping track of what's happening and where you might hit a snag means you're all set to tackle anything that comes up and keep the journey smooth for everyone involved.
Taking the Leap:
Ready to take the plunge into cloud migration? It's an exciting time, with plenty of new opportunities on the horizon. Whether you're motivated by changing work styles, hardware on its last legs, or keeping up with security and compliance, there's plenty to gain by moving forward. With a partner like Dicker Data to guide you, you're setting yourself up for a successful cloud journey.
Come have a chat to the team at Dicker Data about how we can help and what programs we have available for your successful cloud migrations.
