Cloud computing is a buzzword in the software industry. You must have heard these words or come across this word from time to time. These words may sound simple but they actually represent a complex technological platform that has come into existence in recent times. The reason you are hearing this term often is that it has completely revolutionized the way companies work.
Cloud computing has been the flag bearer of a wave of digitization that has swept the world. A simple internet search about it is sure to throw up a mind-boggling amount of information which can be difficult to decipher. Hence, we bring you a piece that explains what it really is but in simple words.
All you need to know about cloud computing
It is time you get an idea of what cloud computing is:
1. Basic Concept
Cloud computing is a term used to encompass various aspects of software management. However, you can understand cloud computing simply as a term that refers to the offsite computing actions performed without active management by the user. This means that every person using it does not need to actively manage the hardware or resources. The resources can be accessed remotely through the internet regardless of where the hardware exists. This boost the availability of resources around the world.
2. Purpose
Cloud computing came into existence to fulfill the needs of the 21st century. It was difficult for people to get better access to computational resources around the world. The main hurdle to this was that it was extremely costly to set up hardware at different locations around the world. This was depriving a lot of people of the computational resources they needed to work more efficiently. Through Cloud Computing, the hardware can be professionally managed at certain locations and can then be accessed remotely by the users.
3. Existence
Cloud computing as a field came into existence a few years ago. Before this, only a rudimentary model of hardware management and remote access existed. (lasvegasoms.com) Servers were set up in certain regions and then remotely accessed by the users. However, it all changed when bug data companies entered this field. Conglomerates and companies set up a robust infrastructure of professionally managed hardware. This hardware was used to host the data in the cloud which was then accessed by customers on payment basis from their respective locations.
4. Applications
Cloud computing has found applications everywhere in our lives. Most companies rely on it to run their operations and set up their offices. Companies no longer invest millions into setting up computing infrastructure. They only set up systems that act as access nodes for accessing the cloud data. This allows them to save money and time. It has found a lot of uses in big data analytics, file storage, testing, backup recovery, and disaster recovery. It is set to infiltrate other sectors in the upcoming years as well.
5. Potential future applications
Cloud computing has widespread use in the modern world but it is yet to reach its peak usage potential. There are still a lot of fields where it is yet to show its full potential. It is all set to transform the world of logistics. Through digitization, the logistics sector will become much more efficient and leaner. Door to door delivery services of various items like food and groceries are also set to avail the benefits of cloud computing. It not only helps apps work fast and easy but also help apps develop and improve functioning.
6. Cost-effective
Cloud computing increases the cost-effectiveness of using computational devices. It reduces the cost of setting up new infrastructure everywhere and allows everyone equal access to all resources. It helps the company save the time and money they would have invested in setting up servers and processing units. Companies these days only need to buy a subscription of a cloud service and systems that will act as access nodes for the information in the cloud.
7. File storage
One of the most important uses of cloud computing is the files storage. Both companies and individuals have started using the cloud to store data and files. You may have uploaded some important documents or photos to some of the popular cloud services available online. Companies these days back up all their data on the cloud and keep all their software in the cloud as well. The cloud facilitates the storage of large volumes of data without the need to set up storage devices locally.
8. Requirements
Using cloud computing have much lesser requirements than setting up new computational infrastructure. You just need to have a subscription of a cloud service and systems that will act as access nodes to access the information in the cloud. This makes the process of using it simple and easy. A company that wishes to offer it services just needs to set up its computational infrastructure in one place and then offer remote access to it.
9. Availability
Another advantage of cloud computing is the fact that is available 24×7. It can be accessed from anywhere in the world and anytime you want. You just need a system and an internet connection to connect to the cloud. The information in the cloud can be utilized as per need without occupying local storage resources. This gives cloud computing a huge edge since local data centers need not be set up. Thus, availability is a huge plus point for cloud computing.
10. Field of study
Cloud computing is currently a robust field of study. There is heavy research going on in it so that it can be applied everywhere and so that it achieves the best result. As more and more companies adopt cloud computing, investment in studying it is only set to grow up.
Final thoughts
After reading this article, you are no longer stranger to the term cloud computing. Now that you have a fair idea of what it is and how it works, it is now time to evaluate whether you should use it or no. Go ahead, and join the technological revolution.
