Cloud computing became a popular IT solution for enterprises last year, enabling them to safely store data, share applications and improve business efficiency, but some experts have suggested cloud adoption will accelerate even more in 2012.

According to a recent Channel Insider report, many companies added cloud services in 2011, but enterprise demand will catch up with provider marketing this year, prompting the cloud market to expand to new heights.

"The more we hear about those success stories, the more it fuels interest and adoption of the broader array of cloud services," Jeffrey Kaplan of Think Strategies told the source. Kaplan said nearly all businesses have realized that cloud computing is a significant, long-term IT trend.

The report said cloud-based human resources and email services have historically been the most popular cloud applications, but almost all enterprise software is being transitioned to the cloud, and many businesses will adopt applications this year.

"As cloud technology advances and becomes a little bit less expensive, some companies will … keep some applications in the private cloud and they'll put others out on the public cloud," Michelle Warren, president of MW Research & Consulting, told the source.

According to many experts, cloud computing is one of the top technology trends small businesses can't afford to disregard, as it can reduce IT costs, improve efficiency and increase flexibility.