Cloud Computing: Features And Characteristics

by Nathan Chapman on May 10, 2010

Cloud computing is internet based computing where information is provided to computers and other devices through shared resources. One can simply say that these are grids of compute utilities. The term “cloud” is inspired by the cloud symbol used in diagrams or flow charts. A user can get information from the cloud system through internet access.

One can understand the cloud system in a better way through an example. People who have access to the internet from their offices, home or any other places use web mail services. There are several popular web mail service providers. If you have an internet, you can access your email account from anywhere. All information is not in your computer neither you need to manage or control any software. All data is stored on the service provider’s server and you can access it anytime and anywhere.

Cloud system can be categorized into three sections. These are application, platform and infrastructure. Each segment has different functions and provides different services to their users. Cloud software offers a user the chance to use the applications running on the cloud infrastructure. Thin client interface like a web browser can be used to access the various applications.

Cloud platform refers to the products which are used to deploy the applications. These platforms work as an interface for the users to access applications provided by the partners. Some popular companies have also developed platforms to allow their customers to access applications from their centralized servers.

Infrastructure is like the backbone of cloud computing concept. Infrastructure vendors offer the physical storage space along with processing capabilities required for both applications and platform. The user has control over the operating system, applications, and storage; however, they can’t manage the cloud infrastructure.

With the use of cloud network, you do not need to store everything on your computer. You can store your data online on various applications provided by the companies and it will save your hard drive space. Moreover, you can access those applications from anywhere across the globe if the computer is linked to the internet.

To access the cloud system, one does not need a fast computer or a large physical or virtual memory. One can buy middleware to use the cloud system at the work place or home. Your hardware costs will be reduced and you will get access to various applications at economical rates.

Cloud computing is a new technique but has become popular in a short time due to its several advantages. Some of the noticeable features of cloud systems are improvement in agility, security, scalability and reliability. Cloud system has proved to be a cost effective solution for individuals as well as business firms.

Get the right cloud software choices by going online. You will find many cloud services and great prices too. Go online today and find out more.

Share and Enjoy:
  • Digg
  • Sphinn
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Mixx
  • Google Bookmarks

Comments on this entry are closed.