Cloud computing

What is cloud computing? Cloud computing means storing and accessing data and programs over the Internet instead of your computer's hard drive. Definition – what is cloud computing?

What can you do with cloud computing? Cloud computing lets you use files and applications over the Internet. This can be useful for working collaboratively, or for allowing multiple people to access the same files. This ability can also be used to backup your important information - even if your house (and computer) burns down, your files in the cloud should be safe. Using cloud services, you can also store music tracks from your personal collection and then listen to them wherever you are, as long as you're connected to the internet. There are similar services for photos available as well. There's even a service that lets you play high-end computer games on low power computers by running the game on a server that you connect to and then sending you the pictures of the game responding to your button presses. This means you can play a game without having to install it, or even download it at all. Features – what can you do with cloud computing

Amazon Google Microsoft Go grid NetSuite Companies who provide cloud computing? Amazon Google Microsoft Go grid NetSuite Dropbox is one of the most popular services available - it lets you upload any kind of file and have any computer (or even smartphone) you want 'synchronise' with it to access the same files. Dropbox offers two gigabytes of online storage for free with more available for a fee. Similar services include OpenDrive, SafeSync and Box. Google has its own cloud music service - imaginatively called 'Google Music' - that lets users store up to 20,000 songs - though currently this service is only available in the US. Apple's service is called iCloud, and lets users share images, music and other files from home computers to Apple branded phones, tablets and other devices. The online games service mentioned above is called OnLive. 'The cloud' is in fact a very vague term - even video on-demand services such as LoveFilm, Netflix, the BBC's iPlayer and even YouTube could be considered cloud services. Examples – give some examples of companies who provide cloud computing

Doesn’t use your own memory space. Advantages Doesn’t use your own memory space. It can be free. It can help save physical storage space. You can access it from anywhere as long as you have internet access. Don’t have to be stored locally. Acts as a secure backup Advantages – what are the good things about cloud computing

You have to have internet connection. Disadvantages Might take longer to access your data than if it was stored on your own computer. You have to have internet connection. Can cost money. Security – you are trusting your data to 3rd parties Disadvantages – what are the bad things about cloud computing