Understanding Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is a technology that uses the internet to store, manage, and process data, eliminating the need for a local server or personal system. To put it in simple terms, using cloud computing means storing and accessing information and programs over the internet instead of your computer’s hard drive.
The ‘cloud’ is just a metaphor for the internet. It turns back to the days of flowcharts and presentations when the server infrastructure of the internet was represented by a puffy, white cumulus cloud, accepting connections and doling out information as it floats.
Types of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is not a single piece of technology, like a microchip or a cell phone. Rather, it’s a system that involves several different components that work together. This system predominantly consists of services, broken down into three primary categories: Software as a Service (SaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and Platform as a Service (PaaS).
*Software as a Service (SaaS)*
SaaS is the type of service that most people think of when they hear the word ‘cloud’. Instead of downloading software on your desktop PC or business network to run and update, you instead access an application via an internet browser. Examples of SaaS applications are Google Apps, Microsoft 365, Dropbox, and more.
*Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)*
IaaS involves the things that are needed to support the IT infrastructure. This includes virtualized hardware, like servers, storage, network facilities. Examples of IaaS are Microsoft Azure, Google Compute Engine (GCE), and more.
*Platform as a Service (PaaS)*
PaaS is the cloud service most often used by developers. This service offers a platform that allows developers to build, test, and manage apps all in one place, without worrying about maintaining operating systems, servers, databases, or any other aspects of the infrastructure. Examples of PaaS are Google App Engine, Heroku, and more.
Cloud Computing and Business Benefits
Cloud computing offers numerous benefits to businesses and these can be vital in the competitive business landscape. Here are some ways that businesses can benefit from cloud computing:
*Economical*
Investing in cloud computing can be cost-effective for businesses. It eliminates the capital expense of buying hardware and setting up and running on-site data centers. These cost savings can be better used for other business areas and help businesses grow.
*Flexibility*
Business needs can fluctuate and being able to respond to these needs quickly can be beneficial. Cloud computing offers businesses the flexibility to scale up or scale down their IT requirements as and when required.
*Collaboration*
In the present global workplace, collaboration among teams is key. With cloud computing, employees can access and work on the same files, applications, and projects, no matter where they are located. This kind of collaboration can translate into more productivity and better services to clients.
*Disaster Recovery*
Every business regardless of size should invest in robust disaster recovery. For smaller businesses with limited financial resources, this is often more an ideal than actual. Cloud is now helping more businesses buck that trend.
In summary, cloud computing is no longer a buzzword but a practical technology that offers numerous benefits, particularly to businesses. It’s not surprising that a growing number of businesses are adopting cloud computing in different industries. Whether you run a small business or oversee a major company, cloud computing is definitely a technology that you should be looking into.