Find out what cloud computing is with this report

1. What Is Cloud Computing Report
10 Powerful Articles On Cloud Computing
Compiled By: Jodie Colby
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2. Article #1
What Is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is quickly gaining a lot of ground in the current
technological era. There are numerous merits that come from going in this
direction. Large companies like Amazon and Google have taken their
operations to the cloud already.
In light of this, it is important to know what it entails and why it is the next
big thing. Indeed, cloud computing is as a result of the evolution of the
internet. Having said this, it is important to put your mind around this

3. concept to really understand what it is. The following information gives you
insightful facts about what cloud computing is and components thereof.
The Definition of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is simply the assignment of a wide array of applications to
a designated server that is outside your personal computer. This special
server is able to hold all your software, hardware and any other applications
that are necessary to run your company or business.
In the cloud, companies are able to store vital data, access word processors
remotely, use email services and the like. Complex database applications will
also be accessed in the cloud. In other words, it can be defined as a one-
stop shop for all your computing needs, without having to run heavy
applications on your computer.
There are specialized companies that have these servers and provide this
service to both companies and individuals. Cloud computing comes with
many benefits and the obvious one is convenience and efficiency. Cloud
computing companies have invested heavily to make sure that they satisfy
the needs of their esteemed clients. This concept is not complicated at all
and most people have already used it, with or without their knowledge. For
example, if you have an email account with Yahoo or Gmail, you are using
cloud computing because their software is not on your computer.
Cloud computing is definitely a revolution because it is helpful and easy to
implement. With a web browser, clients can access their information and
engage different applications without investing in expensive software or
paying hefty license fees to use some web infrastructure. A cloud computing
system or network is complex to say the least. However, the following is a
simple breakdown of some of the top components to expect therein.
The cloud computing system is made up of the front end and the back end.
The front end is the interface that the client or the user will see when they
are accessing information or data from the cloud. The back end is composed
of various programs and applications which are stored in a dedicated server.
Some clients can choose to get services of a private or public cloud. Some
will go for a hybrid cloud. This basically means that they can access their
data as per their own definitions to allow access to those who are permitted.
There are certain vital protocols that the system follows to deliver the right
results. Additionally, the software used in the cloud is special and it is
referred to as middleware.

4. Cloud computing is becoming more and more popular in society. The
companies that provide this service must have essential systems that create
backups in a bid to store or process data properly for clients. Being in the
cloud is soon going to become a requirement for businesses who want to
save money while retaining a seamless flow of work in their organizations.
Article #2
How Does Cloud Computing Work?
Cloud computing is definitely having a huge impact in society. Most large
companies like Facebook are opting to go in this direction because it is
effective and makes economic sense. In addition to this, cloud computing is
able to integrate computers in an organization to save both time and vital
resources such as software.
Cloud computing has been termed as the next level of the internet age, and
more and more people are making use of it. However, to fully appreciate what
it is all about, you need to understand how it works. The following information
gives you details.

5. The Basics of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing employs trusted specialized companies to store vital data
and components on your behalf. Your access therein will be made easy and
your workers can access this large database of information and processes. In
the cloud, email serving, data storage and specialized protocol can be
observed with utmost ease. This happens because of an integrated
infrastructure base that is held together by dedicated servers to deliver
accordingly. The two main areas of a cloud are the front end and the back
end.
The front end is the interface that is accessed by the user on their computer.
It is basically revealed through a web browser and a company can enter the
cloud to access this vital information at any time. The ability to network
different software and hardware to serve many computers has defined the
word cloud. It does not work by inflicting any heavy load on your personal
machine; it works by simply availing all relevant information and databases in
an efficient manner. The front end is as a result of the intricacies that take
place at the back end.
The back end is the nerve center of every tool and infrastructure needed to
make cloud computing possible. It is composed of vital software and
application tools that make mass storage possible. The back end tools are also
responsible for the intelligent communication to the front end owing to
specialized programming mechanisms applied therein. With this system, you
will be able to integrate any worker in the cloud without having to buy
additional software that allows them to perform their job. It is a complex
system that has been created to enhance coordination and access to vital
resources that allow your businesses to be conducted accordingly.
The architectural prowess of any cloud is maintained by the companies that
provide these services. They are also tasked with providing or creating
essential backup systems which will keep the data of clients safe at all time.
They implement dedicated servers to make the process a success. Depending
on the needs of a client, private, public and hybrid clouds can be defined to
ensure access control. Safety is critical and with specialized cloud companies,
delivery of essential software and data has become a mainstay.
It is worth noting that cloud computing has been here for some time. Mega
companies who have enormous data and software needs have led the way to
use the cloud. However, the future is clear and the cloud might just feature
more prominently. All in all, it is a system that allows for better computing
infrastructure and is definitely welcomed by businesses.

6. Article #3
Is Cloud Computing Safe?
Cloud computing is definitely a revolution in the world of internet
technology. It has made new things possible and has helped many save both
time and energy. In return, costs have gone down.
However, it is common knowledge that everything has a bright side and a
dark side. The cloud is not an exception because there are several concerns
by clients - especially when it comes to the issue of safety. Since the
mechanisms of the cloud are controlled by unseen people in unknown
locations, there is genuine fear about safety as discussed below.
Safety Concerns

7. There are two major loopholes when it comes to cloud safety. First, you
would be worried about hackers or access to your information by illegal or
unauthorized persons. This can lead to compromise of classified or private
information; all your data is private. Hackers can capitalize from your data
or the data can be used to cripple your business. The second type of concern
is the malfunction of the infrastructure by the cloud storage services. There
are a few companies such as Ma.gnolia that have collapsed, losing vital
client data forever.
There is no question that these concerns are real. However, the answer to
safety lies with the cloud service provider. Before you register a free account
or hire the services of a cloud storage company, read about their terms and
conditions. In fact, ask about these safety concerns.
You will be amazed at some of the safety policies out there. Just in case data
was compromised or lost, the company must have a cause of action that is
supposed to remedy your problem. Many companies will state that their
safety policies are top-notch and that there is no fear whatsoever of such
happenings.
Obviously, it is not enough to just hear the words; you need to be protected
in writing. So yes, the fears pertaining to safety are very real - make sure
you are covered in the contract or agreement you sign just before you get
access to their services.
You want to work with a cloud service provider that stores a backup copy of
all your data. In addition, you need to know what procedures to follow in
case something bad was to happen and your data was compromised. With
this assurance and knowledge, it is much better to operate in a cloud.
It is always wise to work with companies that have been seen to perform
better in this area, though. Not every cloud storage service is worth
considering.
In life, there are no guarantees and in this regard, you need to be prepared
with an assurance from the cloud service provider. Also, be very keen and
conduct a thorough research and know what the law in your area says about
cloud safety. And do not just stop there. The country where the dedicated
private servers are stored will have certain laws governing the operations;
seek to find out whether you can find proper reprieve if anything goes wrong
in a different location.
Is cloud computing safe? Cloud computing has its own flaws or downsides
and despite all the benefits, there is deep concern about safety. It is not

8. perfect or foolproof and to avoid suffering the consequences of cloud
insecurity, be proactive to make sure that you have a plan B or that you
know where to turn if anything goes seriously wrong. A plan B can be
keeping your own personal backup of all your data. It is worth adding that
cases of hacking and loss of databases in clouds is rare, but it can happen.
Article #4
Cloud Issues You Should Be Aware Of
Cloud services are now being adopted by many companies due to the
numerous benefits they offer to businesses. The cloud can provide more
choices of communication facilities and many companies are said to have
reported an increase in the efficiency of their teamwork.
However, cloud computing services are known to have unique attributes that
may require risk assessments in various areas such as data recovery, data

9. integrity, privacy and critical evaluation of certain legal issues that involve
regulatory compliance, auditing and e-discovery.
Services customers are required to demand transparency and must avoid
those vendors who refuse to reveal their information concerning security
programs. They should ask questions that are related to risk control
processes, policy makers, technical mechanisms, operators and coders. The
following are the cloud issues you should be aware of:
Use of Internal Cloud Is Said to Be Inherently Secure
Most companies have moved away from using public cloud services and have
instead opted for a private cloud area. This type of cloud is hidden by a
firewall and many believe that it can increase the level of protection.
However, this is not the case; companies need to understand that protecting
the cloud by a firewall does not guarantee a safe solution.
Lack of Visibility Poses Safety Risks
Most cloud providers are invisible and this could pose some safety risks to
businesses. Therefore companies must make an informed decision when
moving their files to the cloud since there will be lack of authority to deal
with eventual risks that are associated with this operation.
Unsecured Applications
Regular security applications have attracted a lot of attention for a long
time. If it’s possible, the application can be rebuilt to provide a reliable
deployment for cloud services. This action will help the application
components to be more resilient. It’s important to note that cloud provider
will not help you during this process.
Long-Term Viability
Ideally, cloud providers will never be swallowed up by other companies, get
acquired or go broke. In case this happens, consumers must be assured that
their data will be safe. You should ask your provider what measures they
have put in place to return the stored data to the consumer in case their
company goes under.
Sensitive Data Files Need a More Secure Storage
Service consumers should be careful about the storage of sensitive
information using the cloud storage technology. However, the solution is to
encrypt your data and the question will be how and where to decode it. It’s

10. advisable that encrypted data should never be stored together with the
coding key.
Access to Files and Transfer Rates Depend on Internet Speed
To access the files from the provider’s data storage, the consumer must
have a stable and reliable internet connection. It’s important to note that
wired internet can be affected by the vagaries of nature. Even though a
consumer can access these file via mobile devices, their uses are still
limited.
Cloud technology is still a wise choice for providing storage service to
individuals, small businesses, public organizations and many others.
However, one needs to understand the security issues involved when signing
up with a cloud provider.

11. Article #5
Cloud Computing versus Cloud Storage
Cloud computing provides various IT services in the form of application to
the end-user via the internet. Cloud technology is defined as a set of
networks, hardware, services, interface and storage that are combined to
deliver all aspects of cloud services. Some of the cloud services include
infrastructure, delivery of software and virtual storage. Below we will look at
the difference between cloud computing and cloud storage.
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing entails the sharing of software with different computers
over the network. That means the software does not necessarily need to be
stored on the local machine. A good example is when a computer user wants
to write a report but he has not installed Microsoft Word. The user can
purchase Microsoft Word service through cloud computing from another
computer on the network.
Cloud computing is comprised of four characteristics that include elasticity
and being able to scale up and down, application programming interfaces,
automatic de-provisioning and self-service provisioning, and finally the
ability to offer metering and billing of service usage.
Cloud computing services have become popular because they are convenient
and affordable. With cloud computing, you will be able to keep your
contacts, email and calendar. This will also allow you to view your content,
edit and share with other devices that you’re using.

12. Google Apps 2013 is one of the cloud computing services that allows the
user to view, edit, create and collaborate any office style documents
including spreadsheets, presentations and word processor docs. Photos can
easily be managed at Picasa and videos can be shared and uploaded through
Google Video.
Cloud Storage
Disasters can be as a result of human or natural causes, and can easily fry
your computer. Some of these disasters include floods, fire or power surges,
and all can destroy your precious files. Beyond these natural calamities,
locally-stored data is faced by many other threats that include hard drive
failure, accidental erasures and theft.
It’s hard to predict when and where the disaster will strike, but you can now
store your data in the cloud through a storage management service. This
data storage service will ensure that your files are safely stored and they can
be retrieved anytime.
Cloud storage can provide unlimited storage at a flat rate fee. This means
that the user can store a large number of files since the service will not cap
his limit. Cloud storage provides some useful features that make it possible
to share and upload files in an easy and convenient way. The service will
provide offline syncing, folder sharing and file versioning.
With online storage, you will have an opportunity to store digital files and
access your data from various devices such as mobile devices and multiple
computers. Cloud storage is a powerful service but simple enough for most
customer to use. This online storage is supplemented with support and help
options. Direct customer support is offered via email, live chat and
telephone.
Cloud computing technology can be used in different forms that include
private clouds, public clouds and hybrid clouds. This technology can change
the way businesses apply technology to serve clients, suppliers and
partners. Cloud technology can eliminate many constraints that are common
with a traditional computing environment, such as space, power, time and
cost.

14. Article #6
The Benefits of Using the Cloud
Moving to the cloud for any business is certainly bound to come with an
array of merits. Cloud computing is after all becoming a mainstay of
technology. Large companies have been able to achieve their goals by going
in this direction.
It is all about offloading and leaving the work to experts for a seamless flow
of work and activity in your business. It is very clear that there are many
benefits of using the cloud. This article gives you a detailed look into the top
merits that you can look forward to.
Tap into the Economies of Scale
The cloud allows you to have more productivity even if you are working with
few people. This is because the output is greatly increased. Additionally, it is
a sure way to reduce wastage of resources because you only buy the service
when you need it. This is unlike what companies used to do in the past,
when they invested in expensive software and hardware even when they
were not necessary. In the cloud, your cost per unit is bound to come down,
making you enjoy the awesome economies of scale.
Remove the Need for Maintenance
Because you do not have to deal with any software or specialized hardware
to accomplish your goals, there is no maintenance needed. This will further
save your costs, enabling your business to make more money. However, for
those who maintain hosted servers, maintenance cost will still be in the
picture. The ideal situation is where the cloud service provider uses their
own servers, eliminating this maintenance cost.
Easy Access and a Global Outlook
As long as your workers have access to the internet, they can log into the
cloud from anywhere in the world. This has made this technology versatile
and has provided a new outlook that is international. In this regard, a
business can further grow globally by ensuring that all workers are well
connected to the cloud and that a lot of work is done. This global outlook for
work infrastructure is valuable to say the least.
Enhanced Project Monitoring
Since you have access to all the projects going on in your business in the
cloud, you can monitor work more effectively. This way, you will ensure that

15. work cycles are effective and followed through. No matter where you are,
you will be kept on top of your game, making business management and
monitoring a very easy task. This has been seen to dramatically improve
productivity.
Reduction of Staff Training Costs
Since the cloud systems are straightforward and easy to grasp, the need to
train personnel is reduced greatly. With a reduced workforce, you will work
with competent people and ensure productivity is kept high. The staff does
not have to learn about software and hardware infrastructure, saving a lot of
time as well.
Data Is Backed Up
In the cloud, data is always backed up and there is no fear of any loss.
Therefore, people can conduct their business with the knowledge that there
is complete safety. Conventional systems do not guarantee backup unless
expensive data recovery measures are enforced. With cloud services, you
can put all your fears to rest.
It is obvious that the list of benefits can go on and on. Most companies have
realized the merits and they are using some form of cloud in their
operations. It is worth going through all the merits so that you can make an
informed decision about choosing to hire cloud services.

17. Article #7
Things You Can Do on the Cloud
Cloud computing technologies can help companies save a lot of cash by
taking away the burden of acquiring servers, software, the people required
to provide enterprise services, deployment of customized shelf solutions and
shared technology solutions - all of which are very important in supporting
the mission of the business.
Most vendors use infrastructure, software and servers to provide specialized
services to the organization. Cloud computing will help organizations by
providing scalable and dynamic computing resources over the internet.
These computing services are delivered virtually through online servers and
data centers to anyone who can access the network.
You Need to Identify the Need
Cloud computing provides a lot of benefits that include email, file storage,
calendars, documents, etc. Some of the cloud computing providers like
Google provide a tool that helps you to compare Google mail costing versus
Microsoft Exchange. Others like Astadia will provide a basic tool used for
calculating your return for investing on cloud services. If you are planning to
introduce something new, you can use social media as a platform to raise
awareness.
Carefully Think about Your Company’s Data Protection
This is an important function that is provided by cloud computing. A good
example is when you use a meeting management tool which is available
online and it provides a low risk. Users have little control over the place
where the provider stores their data. The storage could be in a different
country that has different privacy laws. This function is a deal-breaker for
organizations that work with vulnerable communities such as asylum seekers
and refugees.
Staying Connected with the Rest of the World
Cloud computing encompasses social media tools that include Twitter and
Facebook, which helps the users to stay connected.
Data Recovery
The cloud is very successful when it has been pre-configured for disaster
recovery. The cloud recovery plan is an important application that works
automatically when data or a server crashes, since it will help to recover the

18. data at the earliest time possible. By incorporating these applications it
enables the cloud to be an efficient platform to manage PaaS, SaaS and IaaS
competitively.
Optimizing the Existing Resources
If your company is facing a tough time managing software and hardware, or
your servers are running low and there is limited space left, then look for
cloud services. With cloud services, your existing servers will get a rest from
being overloaded and your company’s work environment will be
synchronized.
Enhancing Device Independence
Cloud service helps to reduce the worries of tracking your software and
hardware devices. This is because the cloud enables you to move from a
physical world into a new virtual world, and you don’t think about what is
going on at the in-house IT department. You can let the cloud manager to do
the hard work of getting rid of that expensive software and hardware.
The Cloud Helps to Cut Cost
Don’t lag behind when everyone is quickly moving to cloud technology and
starting to enjoy a cost-effective business environment. The cloud will
promote device independence and automatically reduce the cost of software
and hardware.
Cloud computing is currently the most promising IT technology in the world
today. Most companies are now using cloud services and they are achieving
their desired goals. Cloud computing provides a lot of applications to
businesses which are beneficial in the long run.

20. Article #8
Responsibilities - Who Is Responsible for What?
Cloud computing is a revolutionary technology currently being used to
provide IT services online. Cloud service providers offer computing services
that include complete business applications and data storage space to
multiple customers located in different places. That means customers can
use cloud computing services from their computers or mobile devices from
any location in world.
By providing services to different customers at the same time, the provider
is able to offer these services at an affordable rate. Through cloud
computing services, consumers, public organizations and businesses can
access many affordable services that are very expensive to get on their own.
Below we will look at the responsibilities of consumers and cloud service
providers.
Who Retains the Ownership?
The cloud service provider does not reserve the right to use, manipulate or
access the customer’s data unless permitted by the service consumer.
Therefore, consumers retain the right of ownership to use their own data.
Service consumers should know that this issue can be complicated if multiple
parties access this data; a good example is a business-to-business service
where suppliers and consumers have access to the data. Consumers must be
careful when allowing the access of multiple users.
Service Level Agreements Are Meant to Address Remediation,
Liabilities and Business Outcomes
Computing services can easily suffer due to slowdowns and failures, but
many providers rarely commit themselves to recovery times or even spell
out the kind of procedures they are likely to follow. Service level agreements
will describe the service provider’s commitments.
Cloud services require this kind of agreement depending on the type of cloud
computing service provided. The agreement should be relevant to your
business even though service providers rarely customize them. The service
level agreement should be comprehensive so that it can capture business
issues related to your business.
Notifications and Other Changes That Can Affect the Consumer’s
Business Processes

21. Service consumers will buy cloud services in order to support their business
processes, but sometimes providers can change the terms soon after the
consumer signs up with them. These changes can include upgrades and
prices, which could damage your business because it’s costly to switch to
another provider.
A service provider cannot guarantee to provide a smooth service without
disruptions. Instead, a provider has the responsibility to protect their
consumer’s business by providing advanced notifications of system changes
or major upgrades. Such changes include introduction of new versions of
services, upgrading software, changing location, shuttering facility, exiting
business, and so on.
Legal Requirements in Regards to Jurisdictions of Where the
Provider Operates
Service consumers are likely to overlook the critical legal issues due to the
speed and ease of using cloud services. If a provider stores the service
consumer’s data in a different country, or transfers the data to a foreign
country, a consumer could be subjected to matters of laws and regulations
without his knowledge.
The service provider has a responsibility to assure his consumers that he
doesn’t violate the laws of any foreign country. The providers should also
inform the service consumers which country they store their data in so that
they can make a decision whether it’s safe to use their cloud service.
These responsibilities will help the consumers understand what to expect
from the providers. Respecting these responsibilities will require effort from
the providers and consumers so that the service can be of benefit to both.
Knowing these rights and responsibilities will help the service consumers to
make informed decisions.

23. Article #9
How to Choose the Right Cloud Service for You
The movement towards the cloud has been gathering momentum of late. If
your company is preparing to make this shift, finding a reputable cloud
service provider is crucial in order to realize a successful transition. Many
benefits associated with this transfer are widely accepted in the business
industry.
A recent study has shown that 76% of the companies are expected to move
to private cloud or public cloud. Most of these companies are concerned
about the risk exposed to their business during the transition period. If you
decide to shift to a cloud-based platform, you need to learn about this
technology in depth. Do a thorough investigation by consulting with the
existing users and researching online. The following are factors that will help
you to choose the right cloud service.
You Need to Have the Right Network
Shifting to cloud technology could have an adverse effect on the company’s
network. The effects on the network can include inability to access
databases, applications and many other materials over the web. Therefore
the company must plan to get a reliable and sufficient bandwidth to support
the new mode of working.
Cloud technology is used by companies to store data files and deliver
applications without using in-house servers. The efficiencies of this
technology can easily be lost if the network is unreliable.
Can the Cloud Provider Offer the Right Support?
Technical challenges are likely to occur due to changes in business. A
reputable provider should be able to solve your problem in a swift and
efficient manner. A service level agreement will help you to understand who
takes responsibility for the faults and how fast they can be fixed if they
occur. You should bear in mind that the service level agreement should not
be the standardized one. This is because all businesses are different and
unique. That means every business has different service needs.
Cloud Security
When thinking about cloud deployment, the number one concern for most
businesses is the security. Therefore it’s important to know who will be
responsible for security, especially where confidential or sensitive data is

24. concerned. Some service providers prefer leaving this to their customer.
Cloud security is a very sensitive issue that needs to cover data center,
devices and applications. This security should also cover compliance and
governance issues, which should be sector or industry specific.
Check if the provider has a security policy suitable to your business. At the
same time it should be compliant with the law.
Cloud Expertise
Your cloud provider should have the right technical expertise, industry
accreditation and a long experience in the cloud industry. Look for service
providers who have worked with similar companies like yours because they
will know what can work and what can’t work. Remember to speak to other
clients or check references.
There is definitely a lot for you to think about if you decide to shift your
company IT infrastructure to the cloud. But the service provider you choose
should be able to guide you, since it’s easy to find yourself overwhelmed.
Your partner should take you from network security and design, all the way
to implementation of the project and maintenance. An experienced partner
will help you identify aspects that you never thought of and also to create a
cost-effective solution.

25. Article #10
Top Cloud Storage Services
Cloud computing is becoming very popular in society, even for individuals.
People are realizing the merits of going this direction. There are so many
possibilities in the cloud and the most significant one is the ability to store
files and data safely. This way, no matter where you are in the world, you
can access your information as long as you are connected to the internet.
Better yet, you can connect to your files using a smartphone. This saves a
lot of time and money, making things easier.
All this has been made possible by cloud storage services. The following is a
look at the top cloud services. It is also worth mentioning that many of the
top storage services offer free storage and people who need bigger
capacities or space can then purchase it.
Google Drive
This cloud storage service was launched in 2012 and it is a great way to
organize your files in the cloud. Here, you have a chance to share and store
spreadsheets, documents, files; the list is long. You can do this in a
completely safe manner. Your online file storage is very secure. It is also
versatile because you can edit your documents as you desire. The best thing
is that you can do this together with your workmates.
To begin with, you will have 5GB space to do all your stuff and you can
increase your capacity as you wish; the maximum space being 10GB.
Chrome, Android, Apple and Mac devices are all supported by this cloud
storage service from Google.
Dropbox
This is one of the most popular cloud storage services and it was launched in
2007. It is a great place to store your files and photos as you like. Share all
your documents with your friends as well. To start off, you will have a space
of about 2GB and upon successful referral to others, you can increase your
space. It is a free service that has gained a lot of popularity in the market.
For PC, Mac, Android and more, you will be in a position to use Dropbox
without any hassle. Here, you can upload many files without any limit. You
will find both desktop and mobile applications.
Microsoft SkyDrive

26. This is yet another cloud storage service that is provided by Microsoft. It
makes file hosting possible with an initial space of about 7GB. You can store
unlimited files and if you need any additional space, you can consider a paid
plan as desired. Here, you can expect to find office applications like Excel,
Word, One Note, PowerPoint and more. Within a browser, you can create,
edit and share documents as you desire without others.
There are many options when it comes to cloud storage services. The great
news is that you can use these platforms free of charge. It is a chance to see
how well you can integrate your business or work to the cloud. If you are
pleased, you can roll out a bigger capacity and purchasing plans will be well
in order. There is no question that this is the future of the internet. It makes
work much easier and saves you lots of time, money and heartache.
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