Cloud computing is a term that’s been around for quite some time now. The concept of

cloud computing is quite simple and easy to understand. And no, it doesn’t mean using

computers high up in the clouds, if that’s what you were thinking. In its simplest of

terms, it refers to a type of computing which depends on sharing resources online rather

than having local servers or personal devices to handle applications. To make things

even simpler to understand, it is basically the process of storing and accessing

programs and data over the internet, instead of having a physical hard drive. The word

“cloud” is merely a metaphor for the Internet.

Over the years, cloud computing has transformed through numerous phases which

include grid and utility computing, application service provision (ASP) and Software as a

Service (SaaS).

The history of cloud computing dates back to longer that when most of us would think.

Most sources of information state that the inception of cloud computing goes back to the

mid-20th century. In the 1950s, it was possible to access a central computer through

individual computer clusters. However, due to insufficient funding and maintenance

difficulties, implementation seemed impractical at the time. At the same time, having

such advanced facilities wasn’t really required by most organizations.

About two decades later, the concept of virtual machines was created. This made room

for multiple distinct computing environments to reside on one physical environment.

Moving on to the 90s, telecommunication firms started offering virtualized private

network connections (VPNs). The virtualized private network connections had the

similar service quality as their dedicated services, and were offered at more economic

rates.

Cloud computing comes with many advantages. Users are able to save costs and have

a reliable and manageable method of accessing their data almost anywhere at any time.

Organizations can also use cloud computing to obtain a strategic edge over there

competitors.

On the contrary, there are also some drawbacks. One of the biggest concerns is

security and downtime. There have many been many cases where sensitive data has

been leaked, affecting several individuals.

Cloud computing is a revolutionary phenomenon and it is here to stay. With

advancements in technology, security is becoming tighter and tigther, thereby hopefully

working towards a safer online environment.

Questions on my mind:

1. Is there any substitute for cloud computing?2. How much would it generally cost for a cloud computing service to be set up in

an average sized institution?3. Does cloud computing require any new hardware?4. What would happen if data gets lost or corrupted?5. Is cloud computing worth all the risk and money?

References / Read more:

http://www.thoughtsoncloud.com/2014/02/how-does-cloud-computing-work/

http://www.levelcloud.net/why-levelcloud/cloud-education-center/advantages-and-

disadvantages-of-cloud-computing/

http://www.staples.com/sbd/cre/tech-services/explore-tips-and-advice/tech-articles/

embrace-the-cloud-or-get-out-of-the-way.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYGQcmZUTaw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYzJl0Zrc4M