Most laptops, iPods, iPhones, tablets, smartphones, desktops and even printers can all communicate via the cloud. But how? If you’re considering upgrading to the new iPhone 5S from your current iPhone, and you notice that your icons, settings, and even Instant Messages are exactly the same as the old phone you had before it. Do you ever wonder why, or how that happens? Welcome to the Cloud! The Cloud isn’t a new concept but it is relatively new on the consumer front and gaining traction with businesses. Therefore, I’m going to briefly describe Cloud computing, what the disadvantages and advantages are for using the Cloud for your business.
What is Cloud computing? NIST’s (National Institute of Standards and Technology) definition of Cloud computing is as, “a mode of enabling ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources” (NIST). The simplified definition of cloud computing is internet-based computing. Cloud computing is the use of computing – using software or applications, storing or accessing files/ data – on the web, rather than on your local hard drive. The most common example of Cloud computing is the use of Google’s services. All of Google’s services can only be used on the web, therefore needing an internet connection. That’s because everything you do with Google (like using Gmail, Google Docs, Instant Messaging, G+, and etc.) are stored in their server farms or data centers, and not your local drive.
The advantages of Cloud computing are becoming more apparent and relative in today’s society. As more devices are connected to the Internet, the less we store information locally. The convenience of having all your files accessible from any device is too seamless to ignore. The cost of Cloud computing also helps many small business with the cost of infrastructure, hiring of less employees and the headache of ongoing maintenance with their servers. Most new laptops and tablets also use the cloud exclusively for storage. For those reasons, many business are using 3rd party cloud storage vendors, like Google or Amazon, to store their data. For consumers, many companies give you a limited amount of cloud storage for free (normally around 15gb), with other purchase plans available for more.
There are positives and negatives with anything. One of the disadvantages of using Cloud computing is the need to always need Internet connection. Without a connection to the web, you can’t use an online application, you can’t store or access your files and if you’re a business, you can’t run your business. Then there’s the issue of security. If you or your business is deciding to put your data in the Cloud, you’re allowing a 3rd party to handle this transaction and securing it. You have no control of what is going on with the data, the level of encryption or security measures taken to protect your data and you’re always running the risk of that 3rd party getting hacked; resulting in a lot of privacy concerns.
Like many things, you have to look at the cost benefits and negatives when deciding if you’ll use Cloud computing. Cloud computing has become so efficient that most of us don’t even notice it, but when looking at Cloud computing for business use, the complexity and risks increase. Therefore, it is ideal that you consult with your IT department and weigh all your options before moving your business to the Cloud.
