Cloud-Computing-and-the-National-Cloud
Blog by: Omar Ahmed
In today’s digital world, cloud computing has become an essential part of business strategy for both small and large companies. As the importance of cloud technology grows, the concept of the national cloud has emerged. Many countries now see it as a key option for securing data and advancing local digital development. In this blog, we will explore the concept of the national cloud and why local institutions should consider adopting it.
When we talk about the "cloud," we are not referring to clouds in the sky. In technical terms, the cloud is an advanced method for storing and processing data and running applications over a network—either a local network (not requiring global internet access) or the internet itself. This approach eliminates the need for costly, high-maintenance local servers and hardware that have limited lifespans.
Simply put, the cloud is a place to store all the data and applications you need, accessible from anywhere as long as you have a network or internet connection.
The National Cloud is a cloud model hosted within a country’s borders, managed and overseen by local institutions. Unlike global public clouds offered by companies like Amazon or Microsoft, the national cloud ensures that data remains within the country, providing enhanced security and compliance with local laws.
Security
Data stored in local data centers is far less vulnerable to unauthorized access from external parties. With cyberattacks increasing worldwide, safeguarding local data has become a top priority.
Compliance with Local Laws
The national cloud ensures institutions can comply with local data protection regulations. Many countries enforce strict rules on storing personal data, and a national cloud makes compliance easier.
Cost Efficiency
Investing in local cloud infrastructure can be more cost-effective than relying on global cloud solutions. Countries can reduce costs by providing flexible cloud services tailored to local businesses.
Reduced Hardware Costs
Using the cloud eliminates the need to purchase or maintain large servers. You can rent storage or services as needed, saving on hardware expenses.
Pay Only for What You Use
Cloud services are typically subscription-based or pay-as-you-go. You only pay for the storage or applications you use, avoiding unnecessary costs.
Secure Storage Without Maintenance
Cloud providers handle maintenance and security updates, saving institutions time and money in managing technical systems.
Access Anywhere
Cloud services allow access to data and applications from any device—smartphone, laptop, or tablet—at any time, providing flexibility and convenience.
Reduced Electricity and Maintenance Costs
By relying on cloud data centers, institutions avoid running large on-site servers, lowering electricity bills and maintenance expenses.
Governments worldwide are increasingly adopting national clouds to improve public services and interact efficiently with citizens. These platforms enable e-government services, digital healthcare, and remote education, accelerating the country’s digital transformation.
Local businesses can also benefit by improving productivity, streamlining manufacturing, managing human resources, and delivering faster, more efficient customer services through advanced cloud tools.
The national cloud supports economic innovation by facilitating access to advanced technologies, allowing local businesses to develop innovative solutions and new services. This enhances national economic growth and competitiveness across sectors like education, healthcare, finance, and business.
Several countries have successfully implemented national cloud strategies. By investing in local data centers and cloud services for both government and private institutions, these nations have accelerated digital transformation, improved public services, and strengthened data security.
Recent trends indicate increasing reliance on national clouds over global public clouds. This reflects growing interest in local solutions that protect digital sovereignty and meet national objectives.
Yemen has embraced the national cloud through the operator Sohobcom, which provides local cloud solutions for businesses and institutions. The company focuses on digital economy enablement, offering services such as cloud infrastructure, data migration, security solutions, and flexible pricing.
Sohobcom Services Include:
Virtual Data Center (VDCaaS)
Virtual Private Server (VPS)
Web Hosting
Email as a Service (EaaS)
Disaster Recovery (DRaaS)
Domain Registration
Hosting Reseller Services
Firewall as a Service (FWaaS)
Storage as a Service (STaaS)
Sohobcom Drive
Backup, antivirus, security, and IT services
Benefits of Using Sohobcom:
Data sovereignty within Yemen
Cost efficiency and operational flexibility
Remote access and mobility
Enhanced security and continuity
Choose the Right Partner
Select a trusted national cloud provider capable of meeting technical and compliance requirements.
Train Employees
Ensure staff are trained to use cloud technologies effectively.
Review Local Regulations
Understand data protection and intellectual property laws before migrating data to the cloud.
Practical Example:
A small shop can store customer data or invoices in the cloud instead of purchasing a physical server. This eliminates concerns about maintenance, security, and expansion costs, allowing the business to scale efficiently.
Education Sector:
National cloud solutions enable secure management of digital classrooms, libraries, and learning management systems (LMS), ensuring data security, continuity, and customization for local needs. Institutions can implement AI-driven learning analytics, support remote collaboration, and accelerate educational innovation.
Finance Sector:
National clouds improve security, compliance, transaction speed, and operational efficiency. Banks and exchange companies can store sensitive data locally, adhere to AML and KYC regulations, and offer online and mobile banking services with reduced costs and enhanced reliability.
While local backups are important, using the national cloud as a secondary backup ensures protection against hardware failures, theft, natural disasters, or war-related disruptions.
The national cloud is not just a technological tool—it is a strategic asset that enhances data security, operational efficiency, innovation, and digital sovereignty. By adopting national cloud solutions, countries, institutions, and businesses can thrive in the digital era while safeguarding critical information.