I’m hearing a lot of cloud computing chatter.  Said to be the next big step in computing, cloud computing means being able to access all your tools and data from a centralized hub.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud Computing in definition is a process in which storage is handled with the aid of a cloud server. It moves computation to a web-based service, and is different from grid or utility computing. In the cloud, users contract with internet vendors for access to their computational resources. Cloud computing enables the user to access multiple servers via a single digital network. Cloud services can be accessed by any device with internet access, so you can stay connected on your computer, notebook, smartphone, tablet,etc.

Cloud Computing: Pros

• This service is flexible allowing you to tailor your contract to your personal or business needs. This allows you to access your information anywhere on any device!
• Data-backup is now in the hands of the cloud! No more worries if your device is stolen or your computer crashes, your data is safe and sound in the cloud. Click here for more on keeping data on your internal HD safe!
• Most cloud services offer a trial period so you can see if the service will meet your needs before you commit.

Cloud Computing: Cons

The term “cloud”  is becoming common in the computing community because the technology is already being used in several places of business, and since the release of Apple Cloud. Most seem to be understanding the concept easily. Cloud computing doesn’t run solely on your personal computer  but rather in sync/hand in hand with the internet in what is called, “cloud”. In the cloud, your machine and your web browser is your client. Access to a cloud is simple as a user name and password. Does this bother some people?

A prominent point of concern is that Cloud computing is ‘internet-based’. Since this service is just becoming popular and people are making the leap for the sake of being modern, a question lingers. This service depends entirely on the company’s internet infrastructure. Some companies question if the cloud can perform under the stress of their large computing load.

There are rising concerns for running data-intensive applications in the cloud. It may not be a smart or even possible choice for large HPC sites with several multi-gigabit links. Infrastructure aside, there are several other documented issues with the cloud that affect performance in a cloud computing environment.

Cloud Computing: The Bottom Line

The cloud, If perfected, could change the computing game in a big way, but right now this fantastical innovation can feel bogged down by limitations and there is not a standardized infrastructure. So expensive network infrastructure retooling may be necessary (if your company really computes on that large of a scale.) Is this trade-off worth it for the benefits of cloud computing? Already loving your cloud? DevicePlanet would love to hear about your cloud computing experience.