This Cloud has Data, Not Rain
The cloud, in my opinion, is a modern day wonder. It allows users to store and access data over the internet and within seconds seconds, you can upload, download and access tons that data.
You might be a little confused. Who the heck runs the cloud? How do I get my data on there? Well let us start from the beginning.
What is the Cloud?
There are two main types of cloud services.
First, the public cloud is something everyone has access to store data on, usually free of charge. The public cloud also allows small businesses to get their foot in the door. Normally, a new business would have to set up some sort of data centre to control all of the data they receive from users. However, with the public cloud, some other company can run the data centre for them, and that business can then purchase storage space from the company, allowing them to reduce start-up costs. And if the business grows, it can easily expand on the cloud by simply paying for more storage, instead of having to purchase new computers to store all the data for them.
The private cloud has essentially the same functionality as the public cloud, however the business that uses the private cloud usually also controls the data centre. It essentially allows for faster data transmission and access of data across the world by constantly uploading and updating data to it. This works extremely well for companies that have many areas of operation and employees which require access to that data.
Who Provides Cloud Services?
Some examples of cloud-based services include Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure and, my favourite, Amazon Web Services (AWS).
AWS provides a lot of different services. In fact, when I hover over their products page, I get hit with this gigantic, overwhelming list of products. They offer anything from virtual servers on the cloud, databases, networking, analytics, AI, business productivity, you name it. Small businesses storing all of this information on the cloud would reduce costs drastically. I’ve even tried AWS, and trust me, it’s amazing.
Enough about the beauty of the cloud. Why use it? Why not use conventional means of storing and accessing data, like hard drives or USBs? Well, here’s a list of pros and cons regarding the cloud.
Advantages of the Cloud
- No bulky hardware to carry around
- Allows for world wide collaboration
- Easily scalable
Disadvantages of the Cloud
- Some security issues
- People may have access to data that you don’t want them to have access to
- Difficult to accurately track cloud service usage, therefore companies pay for more than they need
Hopefully with this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how the cloud works. There are more than two types of cloud services, and you can read more about them here. You should also now know the pros and cons, and be able to make an educated decision on whether you want to use the cloud or not, but chances are, you’re already using it. The cloud is just that big.
