Cloud Computing Research Assignment

Cloud computing can be looked at as several different types of services, but overall the term "cloud" refers to a connection of networks based online. A cloud is like a data backup storage facility online able to be accessed from virtually anywhere with an internet connection. "Examples of cloud computing include online backup services, social networking services, and personal data services such as Apple's MobileMe". (1) Instead of saving files or data to a portable hard drive device, such as a flash drive, you save your media and files onto a virtual hard drive that can be accessed from home, work, or even school. "Cloud services include the delivery of software, infrastructure, and storage over the Internet (either as separate components or a complete platform) based on user demand". (2) Clouds can offer large amounts of storage space and is where the term cloud comes from. The information and data is stored in a "cloud" rather than on a tangible item as a hard drive or storage media device. 

My friend has an online storage database which is EFS Software and acts as the perfect example of a cloud. He has almost everything his personal computer’s hard drive would have just accessed through a http: web address. After being prompted a username and password, basically an online file server for any data, file, or media needed to be saved and stored securely. Nothing is originally saved onto the cloud, it works as a "backup assistant" for anything needed to be saved in multiple places for security. It’s great when you need to share large files to multiple users from different locations. This is a huge advantage for companies that are nation-wide. Imagine a huge company needing to share not only data, but large software packaging all over the internet without any trouble. "Cloud Computing is the next stage in the Internet's evolution, providing the means through which everything — from computing power to computing infrastructure, applications, business processes to personal collaboration".(2) Cloud computing is a brand new innovation that not many people/companies have fully taken advantage of. Cloud computing is the future of sharing information within the industry. It’s going to replace old technology such as the hard drive and portable flash drives, but this new "cloud" can hold more space, respond quicker, and is accessible from anywhere. It’s more convenient for the organization and or consumer by allowing an online storage device to replace old existent tangible items.

1. Gruman, Galen. "Cloud Computing." Tech Terms. Tech Terms, 23/04/09. Web. 19 Jul 2011. <http://www.techterms.com/definition/cloudcomputing>.

Hurwitz, Judith. "What is Cloud Computing."Dummies.com. Wiley Publishing Inc., 01/2008. Web. 19 Jul 2011. <http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/what-is-cloud-computing.html>.