Cloud Computing a leap into the future or a security concern?

Cloud computing is the delivery of a diverse range of on-demand services on the internet. These resources include applications, storage, software, and much more. Popular cloud providers such as Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, IBM, Oracle cloud embody the definition of cloud computing.
Thanks to cloud computing services, firms can circumvent the upfront costs and complications of owning and maintaining an IT infrastructure. Companies instead, simply rent applications, software, and more from these cloud computing providers when they require it. Similarly, providing the same services to a wide range of consumers, these cloud computing providers benefit from scale economies. The term, “Cloud Computing” has been lingering around since the 2000s however this concept as a service has been out there for much longer, as far as the 1960s when agencies would let firms rent time on their mainframes.
Cloud computing in today’s era is particularly important as the building foundation to support cloud computing accounts for more than one-third of the money spent on IT globally. While conventional methods of in-office IT continue, data moves to the clouds, be it public or private cloud service providers. These public clouds provide services on servers and storage space while intermediary organizations operate, handle and control all the hardware and software. These services can be accessed by nearly anyone. Private clouds are usually limited for certain customers; one with a business or organization. Many of these providers host it on private networks. A hybrid cloud is a union of both private and public services. This model gives customers more adaptability and helps them optimize the way they want.

Cloud computing is not an individual piece of technology instead it mainly consists of 3 different services SaaS(software-as-a-service), IaaS(infrastructure-as-a-service), PaaS(platform-as-a-service).

  • Software-as-a-service (SaaS) is the license provided to a customer for a particular software application. These licenses are commonly a pay as you go model, these applications can be found in software’s like Microsoft Office or Adobe.
  • Infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) is responsible for administering everything from the operating systems to storage and servers using IP-based connectivity. Customers can acquire these resources from an outsourced, on-demand service while dodging the need to purchase software or servers from firms like IBM or Oracle.
  • Platform-as-a-service (PaaS) is believed to be the most sophisticated of the 3-cloud based computing. PaaS and SaaS share similarities however the primary one being that instead of delivering software online, it’s a platform designed to create software’s that’s delivered through the internet.

Cloud-based computing comes with its many advantages, it offers a reduced time for commercial introduction. However, developers are drawn to the rich profusion of advance services that can be integrated such as machine learning or the internet of things.

Cloud-based software offers companies whether big or small, the ability to use software across multiple platforms or via app or browser. Therefore, they can transfer files or settings seamlessly over different devices.

Cloud computing has brought ease into our lives as well. Thanks to it, we can use services such as checking email on any device or even use services such as Google Drive or Dropbox to backup files for emergency purposes.­­­

It’s can also potentially save big business huge amounts of money. Before cloud computing became readily available, organizations were required to construct their own costly IT infrastructures. Companies can now exchange expensive server centers for speedy connections.

Cloud computing has become the platform of choice. Major cloud computing providers are leading the way in technology development, launching new services before they appear anywhere else. Day by day organizations are choosing the cloud where endless amounts of exciting new technologies are emerging.