by business editor Trevor Sturgess

The challenges of cloud computing for smaller firms are coming down to earth at a special seminar.

Wendy Goucher, an information security consultant with Idrach, will be speaking about the issue at a Canterbury Cloud event in Canterbury Cathedral Lodge on Thursday, April 25.

Canterbury Cloud addresses the challenges facing businesses, charities and individuals when deciding how to integrate their organisations into the cloud.

"If you don't understand the cloud — not necessarily the technical bit, just the main benefits and risks — then don't send your precious data there," said Ms Goucher.

"You run your business by working hard and controlling quality. Don't surrender security of your data without a fight."

She will be giving a talk about how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can safely use the cloud, covering topics such as data security and why the cloud is relevant to SMEs.

By running systems on remote servers, many corporations use cloud software and technology to manage a range of tasks from accounts to customer relationships.

Smaller businesses are increasingly using the technology to reduce IT costs, connect a mobile workforce and store data, reducing physical storage needs and raising data-access speeds. But Ms Goucher will explain the risks associated with these advantages and opportunities.

Entry to the event, sponsored by A Way With Words, will run from 7-9pm, costs £15 and includes light refreshments.

Tickets and information by visiting canterburycloud.com or phoning 01227 392 997.