Cloud Computing

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud Computing is the use of various applications and services over the Internet to perform functions that were traditionally done with software installed on an individual computer. The name cloud is an alternate word used to describe the Internet inspired by the cloud symbol used in diagrams and flowcharts to represent the Internet.

Cloud Computing environments, which can be either public or private, are typically owned and operated by a third-party provider from a remote location. A public cloud provides services to anyone on the Internet while a private cloud can be a proprietary network owned to a typical enterprise business available to limited persons.

Are There Any Examples?

Cloud computing use is very popular in today’s online computing environment. Many of the online services and applications we may use on a daily basis already use cloud computing technology. Some of these include:

• Google Docs: Create and edit web-based documents, spreadsheets, and presentations
• Dropbox: Store, sync, and, share files online
• Flickr: Online photo management and sharing
• Adobe Photoshop online : An online version of the most popular photo editing software

Any Interesting Facts?

• Late last year Google announced the development of its operating system, Google Chrome OS which will be 100% based on cloud computing. Therefore, only a device is needed to access the Internet with all resources and applications available remotely.