Small Business Cloud Computing And 3 Kings Of Cloud Computing Providers Guide

Table Of Content: History of Cloud Computing, Cloud Computing Basics, How Does Cloud Computing Work? Cloud Computing Examples, Cloud Computing For Dummies, Cloud Computing Architecture, Grid Computing vs Cloud Computing, Pros and Cons of Cloud Computing, Cloud Computing Tutorial, Cloud Computing Stocks and Future of Cloud Computing.

How Far Back Does the History of Cloud Computing Go?

It’s been the buzz word in IT in recent months and has been called the wave of the future. All it takes is a scroll through the comments on cloud computing articles to learn that this exciting new trend may not be quite so new as we outside the loop have been lead to believe.

It’s true that cloud computing has been brought to the public full force in more recent years, but that doesn’t mean the concept hasn’t been there for much longer. As a matter of fact, take the very term cloud which comes from the drawing of a cloud in diagrams that was meant to symbolize the Internet. Essentially the Internet is a cloud, and that’s definitely been around longer than a few years.

No, it is not new technology. As a matter of fact, in the history of cloud computing we find that the concept was born in the 1950s. Time-sharing was adopted to make better use of the expensive mainframes by allowing physical access to the computer by more than one user/terminal, as well as alternating CPU usage. This gave a better return on investment in the hardware.

Sound familiar? with cloud computing today we’re also seeking to make the best use of our investment by accessing servers that are used by many. On the other end, they also make the most of their investment in the complex infrastructure by charging to use it as a service.

As computers became more common technologists wanted to find a way for individuals to access the larger scale processing power. They did this through a number of methods and worked to provide the user the most efficient computing possible.

In the 1960’s John McCarthy said that ‘computation may someday be organized as a utility’. I guess that makes him a sort of clairvoyant, because that is exactly the case today. Cloud computing allows access to advanced computer systems for computing in a pay-as-you-go basis, or just a utility.

In the 1990’s telecommunications companies began offering VPN (Virtual Private Network) services which were less expensive. and allowed them to switch traffic according to use, allowing for a more efficient use of the network bandwidth.

In 1997 the term cloud computing was first coined. It was only a few short years after that that companies began to see the benefit of doing away with hardware in favor of cloud computing, which would save them money, space and the need for IT on the front end.

It has become increasingly popular and recognized for more than just the savings in capital expenditures but also for its efficiency and the fact that it reduces the company’s energy consumption and carbon emissions, something that companies are coming to value more and more.

From the early history of cloud computing to the modern world we can see that the vision of cloud computing was there for many decades before it became very commonly used. And as far as the future, it looks like that vision is going to be taken to whole new heights.

Cloud Computing Basics Made Simple

Companies, governments and individuals have run into a number of problems with computer usage over the last couple of decades. It’s not always convenient and it’s not always cheap. These two basic problems have been addressed with the emergence of cloud computing.

The concept of sharing an infrastructure to make better use of it has been around for a long time, but it wasn’t until the late 1990’s that people really began to look for ways to make large-scale computing available to everyone. Since then cloud computing has been on the rise until the most recent years when it really exploded.

Let’s take a look at cloud computing basics and why it is just starting to be used more generally for the last few years. To do this we need to start at the beginning and describe how cloud computing works in the first place.

In cloud computing the very name comes from the drawing of a cloud that represents the Internet on charts and diagrams. It is an abstraction for the complex processes that are taking place within the cloud. These are generally not necessary for the client to be aware of.

The cloud is the back end of the system and is the site of all the servers, storage systems and the full infrastructure. One main server oversees all the tasks and follows protocol which provides the user with a seamless result on the front end.

The cloud is connected to the user at the front end through a network, either a private one or, more commonly, the Internet. What happens within the cloud is masked by a simple interface. The user-friendly application on the front end makes it simple to input and receive data that has been through the cloud for computing or storage.

There are a lot of reasons this is beneficial to the client. Understanding them helps make it clear why people are using this technology more and more. And when you realize that people are only going to be dealing with greater and greater amounts of information in the form of pictures, music, documents and other data, there is no question that cloud computing will only be used more often.

The user on the front end needs only a computer or computer network and the application that allows access to the cloud computing system. This means no server, no data storage, nothing but access to the network. This has two two outcomes: great savings in capital expenditures and savings in physical space to house all the infrastructure, not to mention the time saved in shopping for and installing the hardware and software.

Software as a Service is delivered from the cloud (IaaS and PaaS can be, too) and used through the application. That’s why cloud computing also means a reduced need for on-site IT support. It also means no paying licensing fees for every user and no updating the software on a regular basis. Those things are done automatically and relieve one of the headaches of old.

Collaboration is made simple as the files are stored within the cloud and can be accessed by multiple users. There is no need to send documents back and forth for sharing and editing. Everyone can see the document any time they want by using the application.

Along the same lines we have the great convenience of cloud computing. Because all data files are stored remotely, they can be accessed at any time from any place as long as you have a connection to the network. Working from home becomes an option, as does collaboration with employees around the globe.

You can access vast amounts of storage space on the cloud and it will all be backed up on a separate server in the cloud. Like any computer system, clouds can also run into problems and have breakdowns but if they do your information should be save. The cloud service provider will take care of repairs quickly and restore all your data, a task that most would prefer to outsource.

Now that you have the cloud computing basics, here is an extremely simple example that will help you better piece it all together:

Email Web based email programs are a form of cloud computing. Rather than running the program on your own computer and storing all the data on your hard drive, you use your email account with Google or Yahoo! or whatever service you use, through the Internet where they have all the infrastructure in place to make sure you have access to your mail whenever you want it and it is all stored there for you, too.

Cloud computing is something that almost everyone uses in one form or another. With the increase in data being stored and changing hands, it is getting to be more and more of a burden and inconvenience to store it all on your own hardware. That’s why offering virtual space and computing on the cloud is becoming an increasingly popular proposition.

How Does Cloud Computing Work?

How Cloud Computing Works – cloud computing is the wave of the future it seems. You hear about it, know people who are using it or considering it, and wonder what it’s all about. You may even know a few examples, but you still wonder exactly how does cloud computing work.

Cloud computing, simply put is outsourcing aspects of computing to an online service. It can be used by companies – SMEs and large corporations alike – and also has various applications for individuals and social circles

The process that go on within the cloud may be too complex to explain clearly and simply, but understanding what it means to the user is fairly straightforward. It becomes easy to grasp when you divide the process into what happens on the user end and what happens within the cloud.

All of the computing takes place within the cloud, which is connected to the user through a network, most often the Internet. The user doesn’t see what happens within the cloud but is given a simple interface to work with which is very user-friendly, making it easy to access data and use software.

On the front end you have the user, or the cloud computing service’s client. They have a computer, a mouse and an application that allows them access to the network connecting to the cloud. There is no need for other hardware or software. It’s as simple as that.

On the back end – within the cloud – are numerous servers, computers and storage systems. This is where all the computation and storage of data takes place. The system runs all programs and processes all information. It provides all the infrastructure and eliminates the need for hardware and software on the front end.

A central server oversees all the processes and follows protocols to ensure that each task is performed properly and everything is combined smoothly and presented properly on the front end. Middleware is software that allows networked computers to communicate with each other.

A cloud computing service is also responsible for the security of the data, which is why redundancy is also part of the services job. All information is backed up in separate storage systems. The computing system is vulnerable to breakdowns as any other system, but all repairs are taken care of within the cloud, more quickly than if you had a similar breakdown on the front end. In the case of a loss of information, all data is retrieved, again, much more simply than if it had been lost on the front end.

On the front end using the software is simple. Even customizing is much more clear cut, or is even done in a natural, automatic way. All updates are also taken care of on the back end.

How does cloud computing work? By offering hardware and software as a service to be utilized through a network via a simplified application. The client simply buys a subscription or uses a pay-as-you-go option where you use the cloud and pay for it as you would a utility.

Much of computing is becoming simplified and made more convenient as cloud computing expands into ever more areas. It’s a good idea to understand how it works, because you’re probably using it in some form already and will only be seeing more of it in coming years.

Everyday Cloud Computing Examples

It can seem pretty abstract and difficult to understand how cloud computing works at face value, but broken down it is actually quite simple. As a matter of fact, you are probably already using some form of cloud or another. There are plenty of cloud computing examples that will likely be familiar to you.

The term “cloud” comes from the cloud shape that represented the Internet in diagrams. It symbolized the things that were happening behind the scenes: the part the user didn’t have to understand, but rather would interact with a simple interface.

The simplest cloud computing example is probably email. Many companies run their own email programs, which means that they store all the data on site, and use their own network. This means that they are also responsible for all the hardware and software necessary to run the program as well as repair and maintain it all.

Web-based email is an example of cloud computing. Rather than have your email program on your computer you simply use an online email service. You are basically borrowing their servers, computers and storage devices. You are given free access to the data that is stored on the Internet and accessed through the simple interface of your account, which can be used anywhere you have an Internet connection, on a computer, or any mobile device.

Remember when you used to have to store all your data files on your computer? And how storage space was an issue? This issue is becoming ever less of an problem because of cloud computing. When using cloud computing your files are stored on the data storage systems within the cloud. This is why it’s possible to access the information from stored on SkyDrive, ZumoDrive and S3 from anywhere. All without taking up storage space on your own hardware.

The same concept of saving on hardware and software applies to the use of online suites of office applications. The idea is that instead of having the word processor, spreadsheet, publishing platform etc. all taking space on your computer, you simply use an online version of the same. The difference is that your information is all stored online and can be accessed by anyone anywhere. This makes collaboration much easier and also allows for greater storage space. It also removes the security risk from your hardware to the back end. Examples of this are Office Live, ThinkFree and Ajax 13.

Another example of cloud computing is in gaming. You can play a game that demands much more RAM than you have when you do it through a cloud. You are connected, again, to the powerful processors behind the cloud. Have you ever played a Zynga game like Words with Friends? You’ve been using cloud computing. Your game is accessible to both players through the application on their mobile device.

There are so many ways cloud computing can be used. It’s not only for companies to save on the cost of infrastructure and IT support and utilized the best technology for their companies, it also something that can affect virtually everything we do.

Cloud Computing For Dummies

The concept of cloud computing may not be simple to understand in its entirety, but that’s actually the point. The part you as a user are meant to understand is simplified and based on your interaction with the interface software, which is often as simple as a web browser.

Of course, there is more to it than just that. Let’s take a look at how it’s all put together in simplified terms: cloud computing for dummies.

In a sentence, cloud computing is the ability to have infrastructure, business processes and applications delivered as a service through the Internet or another network. It means you don’t need to purchase and maintain the servers, storage devices and software, but rather outsource them off site to the back end of the cloud.

There are three models, or rather layers, of cloud computing. 1) Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) gives storage and compute services used by IT organizations and developers to create business solutions. 2) Platform as a Service (PaaS) is the next layer with which applications for data access, database services, billing services, etc. can be built on the infrastructure that is in place. 3) In Software as a Service (SaaS) the software is hosted by the cloud service provider and accessed through a network (often the Internet), eliminating the need for hardware and software for each user.

Clouds can be public, private or hybrid. The essential difference between the first two is that a public cloud is in the public arena, outside the company’s firewall, while a private cloud is within the firewall or in a separate space in the cloud data center. A hybrid is a combination of both types of clouds.

One thing cloud computing has to offer is cost efficiency, as you exchange the cost of your own infrastructure and software for a pay-as you go approach. As with any utility your usage is metered and you only pay for what you use.

Flexibility and scalability are another feature of cloud computing. As demands rise and fall, the cloud is able to accommodate the fluctuation. This includes cases of adding users and changing application requirements.

Interfaces are standardized and simple to use. APIs explain how to use two data sources in communication with each other, making it easy to link clouds together.

Security is an issue that needs special attention. The cloud needs to be managed on the same principles as on-site services including monitoring legitimate activity, managing personal identity data to ensure access is properly controlled, and encryption to protect information. Cloud manageability and governance are two other issues to look into when moving to the cloud.

Cloud computing, when broken down, is quite simple to understand, even for those who aren’t able to understand the complex processes that go on within the cloud. It is a concept that is easy to grasp and even easier to use to make the tasks in any company – you guessed it – easier.

A Look at Cloud Computing Architecture

Cloud computing systems consist of two sections: a front end and a back end. They are connected to one another through a network. Cloud computing architecture can be best understood in the context of these two parts and their connection.

The front end of the system is with the user or client. It consists of a computer, computer network or even mobile device and the interface set up through which to access the cloud, or back end. There are different types of interfaces on the front end. Some use existing Web browsers, while others use unique applications for connecting the user with the back end.

The back end is the cloud itself. The cloud is a distributed computing system which contains many different servers, data storage systems and computers. A cloud can run pretty much any program you could run on your computer from word processing to computer games. Each program is usually run on a separate server. A private cloud is within the users firewall, a public cloud is without.

Within the cloud there is one central server which manages the whole system. It follows a set of protocol which monitor all activity and ensure that they system is working properly and meeting all demands. The software Middleware allows different computers within a network to communicate.

All of the operations which are traditionally taken care of on the front end: running programs on hardware, software for each user and copying and storing data, are taken care of within the cloud. It is basically the outsourcing of all of these procedures to the cloud, and paying for them as a service.

As with any computer system, cloud computing systems do break down or have outages from time to time. This is why good cloud computing systems have all data stored on separate servers to be retrieved for clients in such instances. This is much as you would have in a company if there was a break-down and you had the repairs made and the data retrieved. Within the cloud, however, retrieval time is generally much shorter than if you had to do it on the front end.

Cloud computing architecture from the client’s perspective is massively simplified. With only a computer and connection you can access a great deal of computing and processing power. There is no need to invest in having and maintaining the architecture in-house.

Another thing to keep in mind is that this power is accessible from anywhere. You no longer need to be in the same room as the hardware the way you would without the cloud. You can access it from home, while you are out, and even from another part of the world. Also, all computers on the system are able to access and share information within the cloud, removing another layer of complication.

Because cloud computing architecture removes much from the front end, it also removes the need for the IT support that services, maintains and repairs it. As cloud computing grows, these IT jobs are increasingly being transferred to the back end, within the cloud.

A Look at Grid Computing vs Cloud Computing

While grid computing and cloud computing have many features in common, they do also have distinctions that may make one favorable over the other in some instances. While they are not mutually exclusive and one can be used within the other, let’s take a look first at what they have in common and then explore their differences.

From the user’s perspective, both grid and cloud computing look very similar. This is because abstraction is one of the important features of each. While various complex processes of computation are taking place, the user does not have to understand the details of how they are performed. These processes are essentially masked (abstracted) by the simple interface with which he interacts. It receives input and gives output in a user friendly way.

Both types of are forms of distributed computing which makes use of multiple servers and economizes computing by a sort of specialization. Each task can be done, and done well, by separate servers rather than the user having all the data processed and stored on their own inferior hardware and software.’

In cloud computing the user has access to a variety of services without having to invest in the architecture for using it. It offers many different services from generic word processing to web hosting to customized computer programs for a specific company, all of which can be used without the need for the hardware and software you would be required without the cloud.

The services provided will usually be better because of the availability of more hardware and memory. And you can store objects of almost any size, large or small.

In grid computing one large job, controlled by one computer, is divided into individual tasks which are all performed on separate at the same time. This makes grid computing very efficient. However, while interdependent tasks can be performed, it slows the process down significantly. This is why grid computing is ideal for jobs which have been parallelized, or the code being divided into parallel, rather than interdependent tasks.

Grid computing also accesses a variety of servers, making use of their untapped processing power. On the other hand, it is not the most efficient for storing small amounts of data. It is more fitted for computationally intensive operations.

While you will often find grid computing on the back end of a computational cloud or a cloud within a computational grid, each of these has its own unique set of characteristics that make it suitable to different jobs.

Cloud computing can combine a wide variety of services to present the user with a smoothly optimized result. Grid computing can handle very intense tasks using great processing power and do it in a short time because of the parallel processing.

It is easy on the surface to confuse the two, when you compare grid computing vs cloud computing in more detail you can see that, while they do have many similarities and shared characteristics, they each also have their individual qualities which make them distinct from one another.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing has so many uses in the digital age that it is increasingly becoming an essential part of our everyday lives. From using apps on your smartphone to accessing your Dropbox, you have probably used the technology before whether you were aware of it or not.

But these applications aside, people are starting to take a closer look at the pros and cons of cloud computing and how they might better be able to use it to their benefit. And there are plenty of ways

One of the most common uses of cloud computing for individuals is for data storage. You no longer have to keep getting more memory or buying storage devices. Instead you can use a service to have access to as much storage space as you need. It is flexible and will expand and contract with your needs.

Along the same lines of having access to great amounts of storage, another major benefit of cloud computing is the fact that you can simply pay to use software or hardware as a service and you don’t have to buy, install and update it for yourself. This means that you will likely be able to use superior software to what you could afford to buy for yourself.

This fact makes cloud computing a great benefit to SMEs as they are in a more competitive position, not having to make the capital expenditures on infrastructure and at the same time using enterprise-class software.

Cloud computing allows you to access your data any time through the network. It doesn’t matter if you’re on the computer in the office, at home on your laptop, or using your iPhone at the mall. You have the same access to everything on the cloud.

If there is a breakdown of some sort, you will lose your access while it is being fixed, but you don’t have to pay for the repairs and they are done much more quickly than if you’d had to fix them on the front end.

Also, if there is problem of some sort, most cloud computing services practice redundancy so your files will be retrieved for you from where it is stored on a separate server.

Some of the issues with cloud computing are questions of what it could mean for the company to have access to your files all the time. Security is the number one problem people see with storing information in the cloud.

It’s important to remember, though, that your information is at least protected from any damage that could be done on the front end from fire, theft or other problems that could cause you to lose your data. Also important to note is that cloud computing companies have it in their best interest to keep your information as secure as possible to avoid bad publicity.

The balance is tipped well in favor of the pros of cloud computing, but some will have to determine for themselves whether or not they can realistically give the pros similar weight as the issue of security. Some will determine that the scale for them tips toward the cons. But the majority, it seems, doesn’t agree.

Do You Need a Cloud Computing Tutorial From Cloud Computing Providers?

Any time you start using a new type of software or even a new piece of hardware you have to know what you’re getting into. You need to know how to use it, how to maintain it and what to do to get the most out of it for your personal needs. To this same end we offer a cloud computing tutorial.

Although in the previous paragraph we’ve compared starting with cloud computing to using software for the first time, cloud computing is actually easier than that. If you are using Software as a Service (SaaS), you will find the interface very easy to work with and much of the directions self explanatory.

When not using the cloud you need to have your own software and hardware to perform whatever function is required. To play video games, you’ve got to have a console or computer and software for the game. A company needs all the infrastructure in place for their computer network and software licenses for all users.

Cloud computing simplifies this in every way. You don’t need the hardware. You don’t even need the software. You simply need a computer and access to the network connecting you to the cloud.

All of the infrastructure is already in place behind the cloud. There are servers, data storage systems and everything that is necessary to give you efficient performance. You will actually have access to much greater processing power and data storage than if you had to provide it all for yourself or your business.

What you need is a computer and the application presented to you on a simple interface. You give commands and input data, it is processed and returned through the interface. It couldn’t be simpler.

Because cloud computing is so user-friendly, there is much less need for training in the use of the software. Using, and even customizing the software is straightforward. You don’t even have to worry about updating it, or repair or retrieval in case of a breakdown. All of those things are taken care of on the back end.

Even paying for the service is simple. Depending on what you are using, you will either pay a subscription or pay-as-you-go. Either way, you don’t have to keep up with licensing fees, updating, deal with customizing or any of that.

It should be quite clear by now from this cloud computing tutorial that the wave of the future is probably some of the easiest to use technology in recent memory. You can certainly learn more about the specifics of the service you choose, but there is nothing to fear when moving to the cloud.

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For those looking for more detailed information, especially if you’re thinking of studying in the IT field about the cloud computing niche, there are some excellent courses on cloud computing available. You can even receive a cloud computing certificate that will demonstrate your understanding of the subject and make you a more competitive candidate in your job search.

What Cloud Computing Companies and Cloud Computing Providers have to offer

Cloud computing is definitely what’s hot, but it’s not just a trend. In the information age everybody needs to store data and using a virtual space makes nothing but good sense.

Cloud computing gives you the ability to store data without having to own the hardware. It also gives you access to those files through the Internet, meaning that you can retrieve them anytime, anywhere. You can share them, edit and store them without ever needing your hard drive.

That’s because they’re stored on someone else’s. You are outsourcing storage and computing software and paying for them as a service rather than a product. Cloud computing offers Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), all through the cloud.

Cloud computing companies and cloud computing providers offer you the service which you can often get free with a limited amount of space. For greater capacity or business needs you can pay for the service on a per-use basis, just as a utility. You can potentially get top quality service and storage at a small fraction of the cost of setting it up on site.

In the recent years cloud computing has really taken off, causing loads of start-ups and smaller companies to pop up offering cloud services. The vast majority of users, however opt to use bigger cloud computing providers which they may already be using for other services.

Let’s take a look at some of the more popular cloud computing companies and what they have to offer.

Known as a real pioneer in cloud computing, Amazon has offered its customers cloud computing services since 2006. It began by using the technology for its own use and for its customers to take advantage of its other products and services. Providing the technology as a service to the customer for personal use was a logical next move.

Amazon’s Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) offers online computing capacity whereas the Simple Storage Service (S3) provides storage capacity on demand to meet the growing and fluctuating needs of the user.

Amazon is still one of the biggest names in cloud computing, despite the fact that there have been questions about their reliability in the past. Amazon’s customers find it convenient to add the service on to the other services they use from the company.

GoGrid has made a name for itself in the cloud storage and compute market by offering storage and the virtual servers (Windows and Linux) being deployed quickly onto the cloud. GoGrid is one of Amazon’s main competitors.

No one has to explain to you that Google has a habit of being on the cutting edge of user gratification. If there’s a way to make life easier for the customer, they’re anxious to find it. And they have, repeatedly. They have been offering various cloud computing services for years from Google Docs, and the ability to create documents, spreadsheets and presentations and share them.

Google also has Google Apps, which is a set of online office tools such as email, website creation, calendar, and word processing: all the basics for office productivity.

The Google App Engine is a PaaS which allows the user to create and host applications on Google’s infrastructure. As a matter of fact, the App Engine offers a viable alternative to PaaS from other services and is popular among developers.

AT&T offers cloud computing as a natural addition to the telcom services they already provide. With all the infrastructure already in place, they are able to offer the application hosting service Synaptic Hosting with access to virtual storage and servers as well as networking and security functions.

So far we’ve touched on a few of the major and well known cloud computing companies and cloud computing providers, but there are a wide array of newer companies specializing in cloud computing, too. Some of these have made great headway in the field and have a very promising future.

Some startups just from within the last year or two include the likes of Domo, with their goal being to help business executives to get information when they want it and how they want it.

Social Dynamax allows businesses and workers in contact centers to organize and respond to messages and other communication from users. It opens a way for them monitor and analyze relative communications put up on facebook, Twitter and other sites.

OneOps is a cloud provider that offers you a way to manage all of your apps centrally, regardless of their different attributes. This would be done in the same way that infrastructure services are available in the cloud.

These are just some of the many cloud computing providers large and small. Each have their pros and cons or their specific usage. There is a whole world of cloud computing companies and one or more of them is sure to offer exactly what any client is looking for.

The Most Promising Cloud Computing Stocks

We’re all on the lookout for the next big thing, and we want to find it – and get it in our stock portfolio – before it becomes the next big thing. In our day technology is the thing to invest in as there is the potential for a real explosion of growth as new applications are adopted. Two of the top choices in the field are smartphones and cloud computing.

Cloud computing makes the short list as it is one of the fastest growing technologies of the day. There is a massive potential behind this new-ish trend and it is being used more widely and for a more diverse variety of clients every day.

The basic concept behind cloud computing is to allow the user to save and store all kinds of information, documents, photos, videos etc., away from the device, in a virtual space. This allows access from almost anywhere without the need to store it on your computer. It also allows syncing files across a number of devices with shared access.

The virtual storage makes accessing files extremely convenient as it can be done from anywhere there is an Internet connection. This provides a fantastic option to the businesses person who travels or needs the flexibility to work from home or anywhere else to get their work done without losing the ability to share files and collaborate.

Cloud computing also provides the benefit of backup on a remote device. While there are security issues with storage in the cloud, it does prevent a number of safety issues. For example, data stored in the cloud is not vulnerable loss in the case of theft or damage to your computer or device.

Most services offer a free version with a limited amount of space offering upgrading to become a member for much more space. This is usually done by subscription or on a pay-as-you-go basis.

As you would expect, not all cloud computing companies are created equal. There are many different companies, large and small, offering cloud computing services but a few these have distinguished themselves as the kings in the field. With the great majority of the users between them, they are set to be the fastest growing and most rapidly expanding of the providers, increasing the variety and quality of services they offer every day.

Amazon (AMZN) is generally recognized as a pioneer in cloud computing as it offers those services through Amazon Web Services (AWS). With hundreds of centers worldwide and billions of items in its retail catalog, Amazon itself has benefited from cloud computing.

With clients like Dropbox, Netflix and Yelp, Amazon also offers cloud storage with S3, and its Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) is said to run on 450,000 servers around the world. Amazons growth in the third quarter of 2012 was up 27% from the same quarter the year before. A 14% rise in share prices is predicted in the next 12 months.

Microsoft (MSFT) has also been both using and providing cloud services. It’s provided a new for IT in implementing a business strategy, which can have a huge impact on the ability of a company to compete. Microsoft has launched SkyDrive, a service that offers 7gbs of free space.

The recent growth in Microsoft can be at least partly attributed to the fact that they truly are a leader in the area of cloud computing and have have helped customers the world over by offering service such as software and other tools that give them a hand up in their computing.

Google (GOOG) has on offer Google Drive which offers 5 gbs free space and can be used with any Gmail account. In fact, Google Docs and many other applications are also extremely popular and utilize cloud computing to allow collaboration and sharing of documents. With Google you know you can always expect something bigger and better on the horizon, too.

Both businesses and individuals are making use of cloud computing and as the demand for services grows the technology to meet those demands improves all the time. In order to compete, businesses will be switching to the cloud and demanding better service, meaning that the technology will only continue to grow. Cloud computing will also continue to infiltrate more of our digital activity.

Convenience, innovation, the ability to compete and save on hardware are all reasons that this technology is only set to grow. If you think you’ve been hearing a lot about cloud computing in recent months, you can expect to be hearing even more about it as time goes on right up until we stop talking about it completely because it is the norm.

With the current boom in cloud computing which is expected to continue through the coming years there is a great opportunity for investors. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft and Google all look very promising in terms of growth and have the most to offer for those looking at cloud computing stocks.

Pros and Cons of Cloud Computing for Small Businesses

The world is trending toward cloud computing and the many benefits it offers. As a small business owner, is this the right choice for your business? What are the benefits and drawbacks and what, if any, are the risks?

Most would argue that there are more advantages to cloud computing for small businesses than there are disadvantages. The the majority of these lie in the level of flexibility and cost savings of using cloud computing.

On the most basic level,SMEs can save capital with cloud computing. Without the need to spend on infrastructure as well as savings on IT support you are in a position to utilize enterprise class software and store large amounts of data that you may not be able to afford to buy, install and integrate. You are essentially outsourcing the infrastructure (and getting better quality while you’re at it) and paying as you go based on usage.

When enterprises switch to cloud computing they often have the project of installing Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and integrating it with existing systems. This isn’t the case for small businesses and start-ups. as they are usually able to simply use cloud based Software as a Service (SaaS) eliminating the need for IT.

The scalability of cloud computer services is another great advantage for small businesses. The cloud can handle peak service requirements easily. It can also take the addition of users and adjust to meet the changing needs of a growing and evolving company.

With cloud computing you need only a connection to the network (usually the Internet) to access your data. This means that you don’t have to be in the office to work. You can access the cloud from anywhere at any time which is a big plus for most small companies.

Updating and licensing software is a thing of the past once you are on the cloud. All updates are taken care of automatically. Also, while there are breakdowns in cloud computing as there are in any computer system and you will have to wait until it’s fixed, you don’t have to hire someone to come in and repair it (or keep someone on staff) as it will be repaired on the back end, usually within half the time, or less.

On the subject of risk, there is one area of concern. While there are advantages of storing data on the cloud such as safety from physical harm to your server or the loss of a laptop, there are also security issues. Cloud service providers certainly have security measures in place, but when it’s out of your hands there is little else you can do to decrease your chances are of being hacked.

Overall, cloud computing for small businesses is a very ideal way of solving many of the problems and overcoming some obstacles that SMEs and start-ups face. It is important to research your options and make sure a service can address all the issues your company might have, but if you do you may be on your way to improved efficiency and productivity.

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3 Kings of Cloud Computing And Cloud Computing Providers

A greater percentage of our lives are being positively affected by cloud computing with every passing day. With this new trend many companies are jumping on the bandwagon and offering cloud services but the 3 kings of cloud computing remain the same.

Google has distinguished itself in the field of cloud computing service providers. The company has a constant drive to provide its users with innovative new tools and applications that simplify various aspects of computing.

Speaking of drive, Google Drive is a service offered which allows 5gbs of free space in which users can connect through their Gmail account and store data files which can be accessed through an application from anywhere in the world.

Google Docs has also got a lot of fans as you can create and share documents that can be edited and viewed simultaneously between a number of users. This makes collaboration very simple and is a favorite for many. And with Google, you always know that the next big thing is just around the corner, and it seems this will be true of cloud services as well.

Amazon has used cloud computing for its own purposes (keeping tabs on billions of retail items on hundreds of centers) and also offers it to its customers. Recognized as a pioneer in the field, Amazon has a number of big-name clients including Dropbox, Netflix and Yelp.

The Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) is slated to be a major revenue generator at an estimated $1 billion despite bumps in the road. The VPC and EC2 allow the storing of massive amounts of files of SaaS, IaaS and PaaS meaning the work more effective and precisely.

Amazon is ever expanding its reach and promises to continue to be a real leader in the field of cloud computing by offering new services as time goes on. As a favorite among retailers and for the many other services it provides, many customers find it to be an obvious choice when looking for a cloud computing service provider.

The last of the 3 kings of cloud computing, but certainly not least of them, is Microsoft. The company has worked to provide its customers with the ability to use cloud computing to change the role IT plays in the function of their business. The Windows Azure cloud and the SQL Azure cloud allows for great communication among users and is excellent at managing both the virtual database and the internal IT site.

In terms of safety, Microsoft also takes the cake. It is not on such a public forum and is generally made to be compatible with Microsoft products and to be used solely by its customers. It offers services that really offer speed and efficiency in computing.

The 3 kings of cloud computing are the ones to watch. Whether you are wondering where to invest or looking to go into cloud computing for you personal or business needs, Google, Microsoft and Amazon should be the first places to look as you shop around.

How Do We Determine the Future of Cloud Computing.

It was only a few short years ago that cloud computing burst onto the IT scene. It became the solution to problems faced by governments, businesses and individuals for years. It has continued since that time to expand and cover many more areas and affect more aspects of our digital lives than ever.

But as it has begun to permeate increasingly numerous areas of our technology use, questions have begun to spring up. The center largely around the future of cloud computing and what we have to look forward to, and what we should fear, or at least brace ourselves for.

Cloud computing has proven itself in terms of growth. There is no question that users will continue to demand cloud services and that it will continue to be profitable for the service providers to meet those needs. It is also obvious that the applications of cloud computing are stretching and adjusting to offer new solutions to old problems, or ready solutions to newer problems.

Keeping track of what are the most important contributions of cloud computing to the IT world is part of this assessment of its future. Knowing what is working, what is still needed and exploring the possibilities that lie ahead for the industry ensure that those changes can be made and demand can be met.

Whenever you have a technology that is growing, you also have to ask what risk that growth brings. Will it be able to grow in the free market unhindered? What are some potential problems that could arise and cause problems for cloud computing?

The issue of security is definitely still the number one issue facing cloud computing and one that will need to continue to be addressed with greater urgency. Fear of losing information or identity theft are still serious concerns among many users, and storing all of your data remotely doesn’t contribute to a sense of calm on the subject.

Taking the analysis of these two aspects: benefits and risk, there is some figuring out to do. What is the balance of benefit versus risk? Is it worth the risks? What is the future of cloud computing from the user’s standpoint and based on the way things are currently trending? How much fear are customers feeling and how can this be addressed by the cloud providers.

When taking all of these things into consideration it is possible to get a picture of what the future looks like. We can determine whether or not customers will continue to be willing to pay for cloud services a price that will make it viable for the companies providing those services.

While it appears to have a massive potential in the coming months and years, making cloud computing the wave of the future will be possible only if concerns are addressed and problems are foreseen and headed off whenever possible. If they are, though, the sky is truly the limit for cloud computing. No pun intended.

The Many Advantages of Cloud Computing

While the concept of the ‘cloud’ has been around for awhile, its use in computing is becoming increasingly widespread as various and multiplying applications are recognized for the benefit they can provide to both companies and individuals.

Let’s take a look at the advantages of cloud computing that make it such a popular option today.

1) Cost effectiveness. There are many savings in using cloud computing. You pay for the service by subscription or pay-as-you-go and save on the cost of hardware, software and licensing fees. You are essentially outsourcing these products and services for a fee. Many companies also are able to save on the cost of tech support because most of those issued are taken care of on the back end, within the cloud. Also, individuals, for example, who use cloud computing for gaming can use much less expensive hardware and still play games requiring a lot of memory through the cloud.

2) Convenience. Not only do you not have to pay for more hardware, software and licensing, but you also don’t have to shop for them, install them and train staff on how to use them. This also saves physical space, which can be important in the case of a small business.

3) Accessibility. Data stored within the cloud can be accessed any time and anywhere, as long as there is access to the network (usually via Internet). This makes the use much more convenient (not limited to using in the office) and allows for a global approach as employees in other parts of the world can access the same database.

4) Storage. One of the major advantages of cloud computing is that there is almost unlimited storage meaning you don’t have to worry about keeping up with your storage needs and buying and housing more all the time.

5) Backup. Companies providing cloud computing services are usually required to keep a backup of all your data in case of a break down. This means that your information is already backed up without you having to work at it and keep the hardware for storage. It is also usually much easier to recover data through the cloud than on your own hardware.

6) Software Integration. Not only do you not have to purchase and install or license software for each user, in most cases you will not have to put in the effort to customize the software to meet the specific demands for your use. This is generally done automatically and it is very easy to customize options of services and application to meet your own needs or the needs of your company.

7) Flexibility. It is easy to operate, adjust and even to change directions altogether without a great upheaval and loss in terms of time, energy and personnel.

With its many advantages over traditional methods of computing, it is no wonder cloud computing is gaining momentum and developing so rapidly. Many consider it the wave of the (very near) future.

Disadvantages of Cloud Computing

While cloud computing is evolving, adapting and picking up a great deal of momentum, it definitely has its critics. Some warn that it is not the be-all and end-all perfect solution some seem to believe it to be.

On the other hand, it also may not be the lead-in to a government take-over, as some of the more extreme critics feel it could be. Let’s look at some of the legitimate disadvantages of cloud computing.

1) Security. Far and away the most common worry people have about using cloud computing is the fact that you are entrusting your data to a third party. As all of your information is stored within the cloud, you have a significantly diminished (if not altogether surrendered) ability to control who accesses your data.

This means a company (or individual) is more vulnerable to being hacked or threatened. However, it’s important to note that it is in the cloud provider’s best interest to provide the highest possible security to protect not only their client’s information but their own reputation as well.

2) Privacy. Security of sensitive and personal information is also outside the user’s control. Fears of credit card and identity theft are common so it is important to look into the reliability and the security precautions taken by a provider before using them.

3) Technical Issues. As with any computer network or service, cloud service providers also are subject to break downs and outages. While you may not be responsible for the damage repair or restoration, you will have to wait until everything gets back up and running.

Also, while one advantage of cloud computing is the ability to access it at any time from anywhere, this is limited to Internet availability. If the Internet is down, so is your access to the cloud.

4) Ethical considerations. Some questions arise such as the issue of the effects on other industries. For example, with the implementation of cloud computing, there is less need for IT in the area of computer repair and maintenance. Probably many of these jobs will be transferred to the back end: within the cloud.

On the subject of information that is stored, the questions arise about who owns the data stored in the cloud. Is it possible for the cloud computing company to refuse a client access to their own data? As the industry grows this will be a subject of great discussion within the legal and cloud computing fields (and already is).

As you would before making any purchase, it’s important to make sure you are aware of what you are getting in a cloud computing service provider. Be sure you will have the flexibility you need in terms of applications and formats and the number of users you can add. Also be sure you understand the kind of support that is available and the security they offer for your data.

With all its advantages, cloud computing is far from perfect. If you go into it knowing how it works, what you are being offered and what you can expect you can limit the affects of the disadvantages of cloud computing and have the best experience possible with cloud computing.

Cloud Computing Benefits that Will Rock Your World

Benefits of Cloud Computing – cloud computing is growing and evolving every day as are its number of users. That means that it will consistently be better than ever even as its influence is expanded to ever more applications. If you haven’t yet taken good advantage of cloud computing, here are some reasons to get going now.

To cover all bases we’ll discuss the advantages of cloud computing from two quite different perspectives. First we’ll look at benefits to a business and then benefits to an individual user in the instance of gaming.

With cloud computing you can access more advanced technology by using the cloud’s powerful computers. For a small company this means access to enterprise class technology that that they don’t have the capital to invest in. To the gamer this could mean playing a game requiring 500 RAM when you only physically have 4 RAM.

The cloud can be reached at any time from anywhere there is a computer or mobile device and access to the network (Internet). For the business that means the ability to work from home and even check in on things while on vacation, even abroad. To the gamer this means playing your game at a friend’s or even in the mall.

There is a savings in expenditure, as companies forgo the expense of the hardware and software licensing for each user in favor of pay-as-you go cloud service. Gamers also avoid the cost of expensive computers or consoles in favor of a subscription or a fee for upgrading to a better quality game.

Customizing and integrating software are two things that generally require – or at least are easier with – professional IT help. Both of these things are much easily done through the cloud interface. Software updating is also done automatically. Games are likewise upgraded periodically.

Your company’s data is stored safely away from the risks that come with a spilled drink on the computer or the loss or theft of a laptop. While it is certainly not without security risk, there are those aspects of safety which are avoided through cloud computing. Same thing with the physical safety of game consoles.

Every company experiences a computer system shut-down or breakage at some time. This is also true of the systems that are working behind the cloud. The difference is that without the cloud you have to pay for repairs (and maintenance) and data retrieval. When you are using a cloud service provider, all the repairs are made behind the cloud, much more quickly. Data retrieval as well.

As long as you have got a good connection you’ve got access to your applications. You save time, money and space when you do away with the need for hardware and software. You are also more efficient because you are only paying for what you use.

Which brings me to the last cloud computing benefit: It’s environmentally friendly as you use less (in some cases much less) energy and emit fewer carbon emissions. With all the benefits to you, your company and mother nature, you can hardly go wrong with cloud computing.

Examples of Cloud Computing Close to Home

You’ve heard of cloud computing and you know it’s being used more and more in various settings, but you still may not understand exactly what it is. The fact is that you are probably already using some form of it without even realizing it. Let’s look at some examples of cloud computing and see if any of them sound familiar.

If you’ve heard of (or used) Dropbox, you’ve used cloud computing. You are able to put an application for Dropbox on whatever devices you want, and any files that are stored in it can be accessed from the application on any of those devices. Someone working on a document at home can drop it in the Dropbox and someone on the other side of the world with the same account can pick it up and do anything they like with it. Syncplicity is another similar service.

Social networking also utilizes cloud computing. By entering data and photos on the user-friendly site, you are able to share it with your friends around the world. It is all stored within the cloud and accessed simply by going into your account at any time. Of course, your information is also shared with those running the service, which brings up the issues of privacy and security, but most people seem willing to risk their security for the convenience of the service.

There are various hosting services that offer you storage of your documents, pictures, videos and other information. Heard of YouTube. Yup. Cloud computing. Picasa and Flikr also are cloud computing services. Google Docs Zoho Office and a number of others give you the ability to create documents which can be used in collaboration for editing and sharing.

Email is likely the most commonly used application of cloud computing. When using a web-based email service you are using that technology. You don’t run and store the email program on your computer, but rather let the computers in the cloud – or the Internet – do that for you. You are given much more storage than you could store on your computer because there is plenty of storage on the back end.

Off site backup services are another example. You can store your information, photos and other data on your own hardware, but it is also important to have it backed up online. Keep a copy of everything in the cloud using services like Carbonite, JungleDisk or Mozy. This often makes your information easier to access from anywhere in the world and protects you from the safety issues if your computer or storage devices are stolen or damaged.

Cloud computing plays a role in many aspects of our lives. With an burgeoning number of uses, it will likely only become more popular in the coming years. Although there are issues of security when your data is stored off site, there are also a long list of benefits that are presented, as can be clearly seen through these every day examples of cloud computing.

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