Cloud computing allows users to access data and programs through shared resources and software. It has three main categories: infrastructure, platform, and software as a service. Cloud computing offers benefits such as accessibility, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness for individuals and organizations.
Cloud computing uses the Web, shared resources, and shared software to allow users the ease and flexibility of accessing data and programs. People have been using cloud computing for years without knowing it, such as web-based email and video services. Businesses and other organizations are also thinking about using cloud computing applications or have already started using them. Most cloud computing applications fall into three main categories: infrastructure as a service, platform as a service, or software as a service.
Cloud computing applications have long been used around the world. One of the most common cloud computing applications in use is free web-based email. Computer users also tap into a public cloud when using instant messaging and video messaging services, as well as voice-over-IP. Data backup services allow users to store files on a public or private cloud in cyberspace. There are also customer and sales force management services for businesses.
Cloud computing applications fall into three main categories. The first category is called infrastructure as a service. This information technology allows businesses and other large organizations to set up a virtual data center in a public or private cloud. The two best examples of this are Amazon’s simple storage service and the Elastic Compute Cloud, or EC2. Other similar virtual infrastructure and storage services are provided by global computer companies and telecommunications providers.
The second category is called platform as a service. In this system, the cloud provides a virtual server system that can replace traditional server and desktop hardware with operating systems, processors, and memory. Essentially, users can then access their personal or business files and applications anywhere from any computing device using these cloud computing applications. One of the most popular examples of this type of cloud application is Azure from Microsoft®.
Software as a service is perhaps the most common group of cloud computing applications. Traditional software must be downloaded to a desktop or laptop. It only works on computers that have it downloaded. Cloud computing applications, however, exist in the cloud. There is no need to download the application and all features are available to any user on any device with web access. Some common examples of these types of programs are any online email or instant messaging service.
For individuals and organizations, cloud computing applications offer valuable benefits. They allow them to access and pay for the exact amount of computing power and data storage capacity they need. Cloud computing also encourages mobility and requires fewer resources in the home.
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