Cloud computing refers to storing, managing and processing data online instead of using computer hard drive. The data stored in a hard drive can be accessed only by you whereas cloud allows to access data from anywhere provided the device is connected to internet. Today, there is no need to save document in one device or system instead we can store on virtual storage cloud and can access it from anywhere without worrying about data corruption.
Popular Cloud Computing Services
Amazon Web Services
AWS is one of the cloud services that mainly deal with wide range of services like IaaS, PaaS, simple storage services (S3), elastic compute cloud (ECC), relational database services (RDS) etc. It also provide services for cloud security, cloud management, and IoT,
Google Cloud Connect
It allows users to interact by using Microsoft office that include sharing of files and editing on all platforms of office (word, power point, Excel). The files can be stored on cloud system, and a unique URL is assigned for each file document. Google cloud connect also allows sharing of files with others through these URLs.
IBM Smart Cloud
It mainly provides services like application development for IT companies in hosting, storage and backup of company files. Most popular cloud service is its Bluemix PaaS and it also sells cloud infrastructure and management tools.
Cloud Service Model
Cloud service can be subscribed based on the business requirement.
SaaS (software as a service)
SaaS refers to cloud service where there is common storage. Here specific software is dumped into the system and is accessed by number of devices over the internet. It’s like creating a server and dumping a file and that file is used by individuals or organization.
PaaS (platform as a service)
It provides a platform to testers and developers to build an application or service on internet and that can be hosted on cloud and can be accessed on browser by entering username and password. PaaS is very beneficial in development of enterprise applications.
IaaS (infrastructure as a service)
It is referred as layer in cloud computing model where the computing resources are provided to the users over internet. In this model, hardware is maintained and managed by external cloud provider.
Advantages of Cloud Computing
Affordable
Cloud computing provide space for storage which is often inexpensive. The service is pre-installed online and the service provider takes the responsibility for any updates. There are many apps available for free like Dropbox and increasing storage size can be purchased as per requirement. It gives flexibility to terminate the service whenever you want, and only pay for what you need.
Worldwide Access
Cloud computing provide flexibility as many users can work on same task not being at same place. You can access your files (document or media) from any device & from anywhere in the world, provided you have internet connection.
Infinite Storage
To backup system data, previously we used to buy external hard disk. But today, Cloud allows enough storage space that you will never run out of memory.
Updates and Easy Setup
To install and update the software no extra knowledge is required. Once the subscription is taken, the service provider takes the responsibility for all the software updates.