cloud computing

cloud computing

1. Cloud computing is storing and using services online, rather than storing them locally on a device such as a hard drive. Cloud computing is becoming more popular as web browsers become more powerful and network coverage is more widely available.

2. Backing up - data backed up in the cloud with a reliable provider can be more reliable than storing your information on a hard drive or USB flash memory stick.

3. Compatibility - documents and files are designed to be compatible across different machines and browsers.

4. Cost – the user doesn’t need to buy the latest software as it might be freely accessible through web apps.

5. Independence – the user can work with their files on different computers.

6. Reliable software - web software and browsers are updated online. The user doesn’t have to download the latest updates. Disadvantages

7. Downsides? Of course, all this costs money. You would have to work out whether it is cheaper to use local machines or to hire virtual machines in the cloud. You would have to consider whether it is better to have IT expertise within your company or to 'outsource' it to a cloud service. If you have huge data sets to handle then the issue of downloading / uploading can also be a problem.

8. Copyright – the user sometimes loses legal rights to their original material if they store it online.

9. Security - data stored online is vulnerable to security attacks.