Cloud computing allows you to access, store and process data via the internet, instead of using local computers or servers. This involves the use of remote servers (or “the cloud”) to perform computing, storage, and data processing. While cloud computing may seem like it can be very confusing, the basics are fairly simple to grasp. Below you will find a short guide about cloud computing basics for beginners to help you get started off on the right foot.
Related: Complete Guide to Managed IT Services and Cloud Computing
Benefits of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing has many benefits. One is the ability to access data and applications from any device that has an internet connection. Users can access their data from any device with an internet connection, including a laptop, desktop, smartphone, or tablet. This makes cloud computing beneficial for work from home, or remote work. Cloud computing can also be cheaper than traditional IT infrastructure. Cloud computing allows users to pay only for what they use and not for expensive hardware or software. This is especially useful for small businesses that may not have the funds to invest in their IT infrastructure.
Another benefit of cloud computing is that it offers flexibility, which allows users to increase or decrease their resources based on their requirements. Cloud computing allows businesses to scale up their resources quickly to meet increased traffic.
Related: Learn how Vincovi’s Business IT Solutions in Calgary can help your business
Cloud Computing Services
Infrastructure as a Service: This type of cloud computing service gives users access to infrastructure such as storage, servers, networking, and networking that they can use to create and run their own apps.
Platform as a Service: This type of cloud computing service offers a platform (such as an operating system and database) that users can use to create and deploy their own apps.
Software as a Service: This cloud computing service gives users access to software applications that they can access over the internet. Instead of installing and running these applications on their computers, it allows them to use the services from anywhere.
Related: Learn more about the types of cloud computing services
Cloud computing is typically used by users who sign up for cloud computing services with a provider such as Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. The provider provides the infrastructure and the users have access to the resources and services through the internet.
Types of Cloud Computing
Public cloud: This model of cloud computing uses the resources of a third party provider. These resources are shared between multiple users.
Private cloud: This model of cloud computing uses the resources of one organization and does not share them with others.
Hybrid cloud: This hybrid cloud model combines both public and private clouds. Organizations can take advantage of the advantages of both.
Cloud Security
Cloud computing can also pose security risks as users rely on the provider’s security measures to protect their data. Cloud providers usually have stringent security measures in place to address these concerns. These include data encryption, security audits, and access controls. Additionally, some services provide cloud backup services (see cloud backup vs in-house backup) that can more easily administer a robust data backup system.
Final Words
Cloud computing offers a flexible and powerful way to access, store and process data and applications via the internet. Cloud computing can be cheaper and more scalable than traditional IT infrastructure and is available through many services and models. Cloud computing services can present security risks and need to be considered by users.