Cloud computing

Cloud computing describes data and storage services provided over a network by remote servers. This abstract "cloud" of computers provides massive, distributed storage and processing power that can be accessed by any Internet-connected device running a web browser. Schools, businesses, and individuals can benefit from cloud computing as it makes uploading and downloading information easier, facilitating its flow both locally and globally.

Cloud vs. network or remote server

Because a cloud operates over a network and on a remote server, finding a distinction between the two may be difficult. The biggest difference is that cloud services can be purchased and scaled depending on your needs. For example, to set up a server, an appropriate device needs to be purchased or leased, and it's your responsibility to install the software and manage every process. Also, if the servers were at your facility, staff would need to be hired to manage them and any other associated hardware. However, with a cloud-based service, you pay a fee, and another company hosts and manages the server(s). You are only responsible for configuring its settings and managing the data on the server.

Any service that operates in the cloud also means it's accessible in multiple locations around the world. This feature allows the service to remain fast and accessible, and provides redundancy when failures occur.

Cloud advantages

Below are many reasons why many companies prefer cloud services.

• No infrastructure - Using a cloud service doesn't require a company to purchase, set up, or maintain infrastructure.
• Less staff - Paying for another company to maintain your data and resources reduces your company's IT (information technology) staffing needs.
• Scale - Being able to upgrade or downgrade a server as needed helps save you money and keep your website or online service working during peak times.
• Locations - Cloud companies often have several strategically positioned locations to provide optimal connection speeds to you and your customers. These locations can also offer redundancy if a problem occurs, like a fire or natural disaster.
• Protection - Cloud companies are familiar with and help protect and prevent attacks that can disable a website or online service.

How do you access cloud computing?

Cloud computing is accessed through an application (e.g., Dropbox app) on your computer, smartphone, tablet, or another mobile device. It is also often possible to access cloud computing through a website using your browser. All current browsers, including Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Apple Safari, support cloud computing.

Once connected to cloud computing, data can be retrieved and sent to and from the cloud using the application or browser.

Cloud-native versus cloud-based applications

There are two types of applications with the cloud: those that are cloud-native and those that are cloud-based. The difference is that cloud-based applications are adapted to work with cloud services, whereas cloud-native applications are designed for the cloud. An example of a cloud-based application is one originally designed for a personal computer or local server, but was later modified and relocated to the cloud. While this process gives the added benefits of reduced hardware and remote access, these applications may still be part of an integrated system. If something goes wrong with part of the application, an entire system may need to be taken offline to fix the problem.

On the other hand, cloud-native applications are created specifically for the cloud, resulting in fewer dependencies and faster deployment. Also, their microservice architecture minimizes interruptions, and the pay-as-you-go model for cloud resources lowers their cost.

So, while cloud-based applications still benefit from running in the cloud, they may have slower deployment and increased susceptibility to interruptions. Essentially, their non-native design can limit their ability to fully leverage the cloud's advantages.

Examples of cloud services

If you have spent time on the Internet or use devices connected to the Internet, you likely have used cloud computing in some form. Below are examples of cloud computing you have likely heard of or used, and examples for online storage of pictures, videos, documents, and other files.

• Adobe Creative Cloud - a cloud-based SaaS (Software as a Service) offering from Adobe.
• AWS (Amazon Web Services) and Amazon EC2 - Amazon.com provides various cloud computing services.
• Dashlane - Online password service to synchronize and manage passwords between all devices.
• Google App Engine - A service that allows users to create scalable web services that use Google's resources.
• Google Calendar - A way to organize your schedule, synchronize, and share events with your friends.
• Google Docs - A fantastic free solution from Google that lets you open Microsoft Office documents and share them with other users with Internet access.
• Google Drive - A cloud-based file storage solution from Google. It allows users to share files, edit documents, and sync files across multiple devices.
• iCloud - A cloud service from Apple for iPhones, iPads, Mac computers, and other Apple devices for storing photos, music, games, and other data.
• Microsoft OneDrive - Formerly known as SkyDrive, OneDrive is an online storage service for Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11 users to store files.
• Nextcloud - Open-source software that lets you run a personal cloud server, forked from the OwnCloud project.
• Online backup - Several online backup services store your important information offsite in the cloud. These solutions are also known as cloud storage, online storage, and Internet storage that store information in the cloud. For examples, see: How to back up your computer.
• Oracle public cloud - Oracle cloud service for small and large businesses.
• OwnCloud - Open-source software for running a personal cloud file storage service.
• Windows Azure - A cloud computing solution by Microsoft that allows companies to develop and run services from their cloud.

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