Cloud computing is a broad term that refers to Internet-based services and apps that share resources instead of having them each sit on their own computer. This means you get virtual servers, not just your own computer with software installed. When you want more storage, RAM or processing power, you simply ask the cloud for it; it’s not built into your system and locked away from you so it can’t be accessed. You may know this from another context as “on demand” access to resources. There are many benefits to using the cloud for your business computing needs and we’ll look at some of them here. Read on to learn about what cloud computing is, what it does, its pros and cons and how you can use it for your business.
A Brief History of the Cloud
Despite being a relatively new idea to us, the cloud is actually quite old. In reality, MIT created the first virtual machine, also known as the computer, in 1963 as a result of the idea to allow users to share a single virtual computing experience.
By the 1970s, the cloud computing infrastructure had been further developed to include virtual machines outfitted with operating systems capable of supporting fundamental computing tasks like data processing and storage as well as the execution of internet-compatible applications, allowing many businesses to benefit from the sale of internet services.
Soon after the internet became widely used, its commercialization helped pave the path for cloud computing. In fact, by the late 1990s and early 2000s, numerous well-known companies, including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, IBM, Apple, and Netflix, were already using the internet to offer various cloud-based services to end users, including downloadable software programmes, applications, streaming, and storage usage.
Today, it is safe to say that the cloud as originally imagined is finally here, rapidly gaining in popularity, and has even sparked several different models and deployment strategies to meet the unique needs of various users, providing a plethora of benefits for both consumers and businesses alike, as we will see next.
What Does Cloud Computing Do?
Cloud computing is a catch-all term for internet-based computing — storing data, running apps and software remotely instead of on your own computers. The “cloud” refers to the network of computers that power those services and apps. Most people who use cloud computing do so with public cloud services
ones they can access over the internet. Private cloud is the same concept, but the service is only accessible to employees within one company. Hybrid cloud is a blend of public and private. The most basic function of cloud computing is storage. Instead of having to buy a computer with a certain amount of storage space built in, you buy your storage space in the cloud. All of your data is then stored in the cloud, where you can access it from any computer with an internet connection. Cloud computing can also be used as a platform for sharing files and collaborating remotely.
How Is Cloud Computing Different?
When you use cloud computing, you don’t have to install software on your computer. Instead, it’s hosted remotely in the cloud — a network of computers that are connected over the Internet. This means you don’t have any software installed on your computer, but you can access it from any device or computer with an Internet connection. You don’t have to install anything, which makes it easier for people to use your business software or apps. You can log in from any device and have the same experience. Many cloud computing services also offer user-friendly online apps that you can use right in your web browser. This way, you don’t need to download or install anything on your computer.
What Are The Benefits of Cloud Computing?
Scalability
Cloud computing offers a lot of flexibility. You can start small with a small amount of storage space and processing power, and then expand as needed. It’s easy to increase your storage space or add more computers when you need more power. Cloud computing also makes it easy to scale back when you don’t need that extra storage or processing power.
Fast deployment
Cloud computing makes it easy to set up new computers. You can log in to a management dashboard, turn on new servers and then have them operational in minutes. No need to go through the complex process of installing software and setting up your computers and not to worry about compatibility issues, either.
Security
The cloud is designed to be secure, and cloud computing providers take steps to keep your data private. You can also take precautions to protect your data if you need to keep it private.
Scalable costs
Cloud services usually cost a set amount each month, no matter how much computing power or storage you need. This means you don’t have to buy a huge computer upfront and then have to pay for it even when you don’t need that much power. You can start small and add more as you need it.
How to use Cloud Computing in your business?
In general, you can use cloud computing for most of the same things you do on your computer. However, some programs may be easier to use in the cloud than on your computer. Cloud computing can help you collaborate remotely, since you can access files from any device. You can also use cloud apps for managing your business. It’s easy to keep track of your employees’ work and see who needs help with what projects. You can also use cloud apps to communicate with clients and manage your marketing. You can send and receive messages, take notes, schedule appointments, send and track emails and more.
Drawbacks of Cloud Computing
– Security risks – While cloud computing is secure, you have to make sure you’re taking proper precautions to protect your data. You’ll also want to make sure that you’re storing your data in the correct type of cloud service. You might want to use a private cloud for sensitive information or a public cloud for information you want to share with people who don’t work for your company.
Increased dependence on the Internet –
You’ll need an Internet connection to access all the data and apps you store in the cloud. This means that you could be impacted if your Internet connection goes down. You also might have outages if your Internet service provider has issues.
Loss of privacy –
Since your data is stored in the cloud, it’s subject to privacy laws set by the country where the cloud service provider is based. This could mean your data isn’t as protected as it would be if it was stored on your own computers.
Should You Use Cloud Computing?
If you want to outsource your computing and don’t want to manage your own servers, cloud computing can be a good option. Many businesses run their operations on cloud computing platforms like Salesforce and HubSpot, so you can get advice from other users about the best cloud providers for your business. You’ll want to make sure that you pick a good platform that works for your business and has the features you need.
In the end, cloud computing makes it possible for both consumers and businesses to access software and storage on the internet as a service, which reduces costs by allowing users to only pay for the services they use rather than having to buy the necessary hardware and software, which frequently also requires additional costs for installation and maintenance, including upgrades and data security. To further fit their budget and help save money, businesses can also choose their level of service based on their specific demands, including memory space, storage, user count, and more.
