Cloud computing refers to services that are delivered via the internet (aka Cloud). This eliminates the need for physical hardware and allows for access across any computer with access to the internet. Examples of cloud data services are Dropbox, Google Drive, Carbonite, etc. They offer cloud based storage that is accessible to customers via the internet, data is stored into the cloud and can accessed as such. The job of the provider is to maintain and secure their clients data whilst at the same time giving them 24/7 access to it.
This makes it much easier to manage your files without the physical need for hard drives and also acts as a redundancy backup method. Let’s say your house was to experience a natural disaster or theft in which your drives were stolen, you would lose all your data, however with cloud storage it’s secured and safely locked away off site.
Although cloud computing extends well beyond just data storage. Think of the IT industry as a whole, when it comes to maintaining multiple computers, dealing with employees remotely, and so on this is where cloud computing excels. You have the ability to issue out new software licenses, deal with computers from an off-site location, and even push out updates as needed through the cloud.
Essentially it enables organizations and companies to use computer resources as a tool or utility compared to having physical hardware in place to do so instead.
Benefits of Cloud Computing:
- Cost Efficient
- Ease of Access
- Private/Public Control
- Variety of use cases
- Accessible anywhere with an internet connection
How it Works:
Cloud computing works through interconnected networks. Essentially it uses large groups of computers or servers to spread out certain tasks, these computers are interconnected to the internet and provide portals for you to access depending on your needs such as data storage, Virtual Machines, etc. Facilities are usually in place that house all this hardware so you the consumer don’t have to, all you have to do is access them via certain software or web portals.
Who invented it?
Cloud computing’s origin dates back to the 1960’s with John McCarthy. His idea was that technology and computers would be used a tool/utility in the future. There are many different origin point depending on who you talk to but John is commonly referred to as the father of cloud computing.
Nowadays cloud computing is everywhere. Many major companies such as Amazon had a huge role in pushing the adoption of this technology, making modern data centers and networks that were efficient and cost effective. The cloud architecture is used all over for online backup sites, back end servers, virtual machines, website management and more. Needless to say cloud computing is here to stay and will only grow as time goes on, computer manufacturers such as Google now create laptops with operating systems entirely based on the cloud and internet connection. With the internet becoming commonly available around the world this idea puts the technical aspects in the background and makes everything available to the end user easily, efficiently, and securely. To be honest with you there’s no telling where cloud computing will expand to in the years to come.
