This Insights article was contributed by Stan Martin at IT Works

Since being widely adopted in the 1980s, computers have dramatically changed the way we do business. They forever transformed the workplace, replacing old-fashioned typewriters and word processors. And in the 90s, the World Wide Web really took everyone by storm.

But now it’s 2017, and the next revolutionary advancement in computer technology is here… and it’s here to stay.

Virtual Machines (also called VMs) provide the same functionality as a physical computer, except they are much faster, more reliable and more affordable. Until recently, this technology was only available to large enterprises because of its cost. Thanks to new VM developments, the total cost of ownership has now been significantly reduced and this technology is now affordable for owners of small- to medium-sized business.

Let’s take a look at five mind-blowing reasons why virtual machines are on a fast track to revolutionize businesses across the globe:
 

• Reliability – As a business owner, you’ve likely experienced the frustrating reality of computers breaking down. As a result, employee productivity is lost and the cost of resources quickly adds up while your IT staff or third-party provider works to get your business up and running again. The virtual machine is unwaveringly reliable. If your computer breaks down, your same desktop - with all the files, programs and settings - can literally be up and running in two minutes on another device.
• Peace of Mind – The virtual machine creates peace of mind like no other. Nothing is ever lost in this environment, even if your computer completely dies! Imagine never having to worry again about losing your data. The days of data living on your computer or server hard drive are quickly becoming a thing of the past.
• ·Mobility – The next mind-blowing feature of the virtual machine is the mobility it provides its users. You can work from anywhere, at any time and on any device.
• Security – So at this point you’re likely wondering about virtual machine security, right? If the virtual machine is configured properly, it is impervious to ransomware, viruses, malware and hacker attacks
• Scalability – And finally something every business owner is sure to get excited about. With virtual machine technology, there is no longer the need to replace hardware and servers or upgrade computers for additional storage or speed. Increasing storage and speed can be done with the click of a button.

Virtual machines are the future-proof solution that your business needs today. Our team at IT Works is available to discuss why the time is now to adopt this simple-to-use, flexible and surprisingly affordable technology. If you are ready for a reliable, secure solution that doesn’t require replacing your computers, then look no further than IT Works.

Diane Durance, MPA, is director of UNC Wilmington's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE). The CIE is a resource for the start-up and early-stage business community to help diversify the local economy with innovative solutions. For more information, visit www.uncw.edu/cie.

IT Works is a Wilmington-based company with an industry-leading technology poised to change the standard office environment for good. In addition to eliminating the need for expensive office computers and other equipment, IT Works puts up to 3% of your gross revenue back into your pocket. They deliver future-proof technology that is reliable, secure, fast and mobile. For more information visit OurITWorks.com and give them a call at (910) 594-4862 to find out if this solution is right for your business.