Cloud Computing

Cloud computing — a system of organizing all kinds of computer-related activities using remote servers and online services instead of saving and keeping those services and files on private separate gadgets. The abovementioned activities for which cloud computing services are usually used include such things as email services, data analysis, data storing, reserving and reclaiming the information, application making and checking, online streaming, providing software on demand.

The key principle is that any user may gain access to the needed files and services if his or her device is connected to the web.

An extreme popularity of cloud computing might be explained by the convenience, profitability, high productivity and efficiency of this type of managing business activities. Numerous organizations and individuals are now using cloud computing for business and trading purposes.

At the same time, there are some disadvantages of this popular way of operating data. Security has always been a big deal in business and trading, and with cloud computing the new security issues have appeared. Although many cloud service companies are working hard to solve those problems, promising a high security level for their clients, the risks remain. Another significant problem that might show up when using cloud computing is that it’s vulnerable to such things as natural disasters, blackouts and server failures.

How it works

The main idea of cloud computing is reflected in its name — all the required data and tools are stored and prepared for access in the remoted spaces on the web (also called clouds) by companies specializing in such kind of informational technologies. So, there’s no need for a worker or an owner of the business to save anything on his or her personal device, carry it around to have permanent access to it, or go to a workplace to operate the required information or applications.

Not all cloud computing services work the same way. In general, it’s possible to divide such services into two large groups, which might merge in some areas, though. So, there are public cloud services that deliver their products and solutions online for a charge. These services are usually owned by a third party company operating all the software and hardware, which just provides the service to the clients, and practically everyone might become such a client. 

At the same time, private cloud services providing only for a specific closed group of clients also exist. Such services are usually used by a single company or organization, for which it was specifically designed or adapted, and they are often stored on a company’s data server and provided via a private network. 

Some cloud computing companies combine features of both public and private cloud services.

Components of a cloud computing system

As it was already stated, cloud computing is not a separate technological tool, but a system. And this system might be organized differently. All services might be separated into three groups - SaaS (software-as-a-service), IaaS (infrastructure-as-a-service) and PaaS (platform-as-a-service). 

Let’s examine these forms of cloud computing closely:

• Software-as-a-service (SaaS). In this type of cloud computing services, the users are provided with online software applications (sometimes called web services). Users are able to use these applications with no need to install anything on their devices, and only the Internet connection is required. Users are typically granted licenses to use such services (on-demand or pay-as-you-go models are usually used).
• Infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS). In this type of cloud computing services, a complex solution is provided for users with the supply of a virtual server and an instance, allowing them to operate big chunks of information online using various software options, including tools for its customizing and configuring.
• Platform-as-a-service (PaaS). In this type of cloud computing services, users are provided with the access to online platforms where they can make software themselves, and all the tools and operating capacities are provided via the Internet through this platform.