Cloud computing knowledge is really worth the while, given its widespread implementation and the convenience that accompanies it. Based on the trend that cloud computing knowledge base has shown over the past few months, we have compiled the requisite knowledge of cloud, definition cloud computing, and some essential steps on how to work in cloud computing.

Cloud computing, in simple terms, is delivery of on demand computing resources on a pay for use basis. The word "Cloud" in Cloud Computing is used as the metaphor for the Internet. Cloud Computing involves use of different sets of hardware and software to work unanimously to deliver many aspects of Internet. In technical terminology, it is the virtualization of resource into separate units to make the individual sets act like standalone servers.

Clouds can be classified in various ways depending upon service type or the architecture. However, in our cloud computing knowledge base, we will classify cloud into the following three types -

Infrastructure as a Service - IaaS is where the entire cloud is the requirement. The client will ask the provider to setup a computing environment; once accomplished, the control is handed to the client.

Platform-as-a-Service - PaaS is most suited for developers who only need a platform to work on their applications and are not too concerned with what goes into the background.

Software as a Service - The most comprehensive example of SaaS is ERP, HRM and account management software - even Gmail is SaaS. In Saas, it is not mandatory to install any applications on the computer. Most apps are web based and are accessed using web address.

How to work in Cloud Computing?

Though very different from traditional storage, cloud computing is relatively easier to work with, especially when collaboration and remote access is a necessity. Cloud computing is very much different from storing data at your home or office network. Cloud computing is considered when the data is accessed over the internet. The smooth accessibility that appears at your end, massive data processing is involved on the other end of cloud computing. It just needs an online connection and waits for the miracles of the cloud to happen.

The resources required for cloud computing are data storage, servers, databases, networking, and software. In contrast to hard drive or local storage devices, cloud-based storage aims at storing data over a remote database. One just has to make sure that whichever electronic device is in use should have constant access to the web.

The best part of cloud computing is that the user need not be in a specific place to gain access to it and allowing the user to work remotely. Cloud hosting services can be either public or private depending on the based on the extent of accessibility. Public services are provided online in return for some fee, whereas private services are hosted on a network to specific clients.

Though it has not been long since the cloud has been introduced but the level at which it is spread is phenomenal. From big corporations to small scale businesses and even individual consumers are already being using cloud computing and have been profitable.  

Yes. Google drive is cloud storage solution - an online storage solution to upload and access files from anywhere. Drive's services are delivered over the internet and make little use of the resource of the local host (computer). From a technical standpoint, cloud computing and cloud storage are somewhat different terms, the former being a technology and the latter a service.

What are the advantages of cloud computing?

The key advantages of cloud computing include reduced cost of operations, data security, scalability, and mobility.

These have been elaborated below:

Reduced Cost of Operations
One of the most lucrative features of this technology is a significant reduction in infrastructural investment and operational expenses. In a cloud set-up, you have access to remote computing services offered by a service provider. As a result, you don't need to buy, install and maintain new equipment. Also, you don't need to employ technicians to take care of your cloud operations.
Additionally, since the downtime associated with cloud operations is negligible, you also save on costs incurred on account of disruption in operations.

Data Security
Keeping data secure has become one of the most pressing needs of the current times. Every business, regardless of its size or vertical, needs to safeguard their data against unsolicited intrusion. Cloud solution providers are required to implement stringent safety controls on the data they store in their facilities. These controls, including encryption and multi-factor authentication, make sure your data is safe and secure, thereby saving you from the enormous financial and legal repercussions of a data breach.

Scalability
The computing needs of a business may change with time. For a business looking to expand its operations, a cloud-based service can be of immense help for it can help the company scale up (or down) with the utmost ease. An organization with fluctuating needs with regards to bandwidth, storage, and processing power stands to benefit greatly from a reliable cloud service provider such as Go4hosting, for they can ramp up their capacity almost instantly and that too without any infrastructural investment.

Mobility
Cloud technology lends you the ability to access mission-critical data on the go through portable devices including mobiles, tablets, laptops, etc. This helps you collaborate with clients, employees, or team members from anywhere, anytime, letting you stay ahead of the game at all times.

As long as you have internet connectivity, you can access, share and edit the information stored on your cloud platform in a seamless manner. Such an arrangement not only accelerates the flow of information and expedites operations, but also enables a business to employ the best resources from around the globe irrespective of their location.