Did you know cloud computing has played a vital role in transforming CAPEX business models to OPEX business models in terms of IT?

Cloud computing has significantly managed to bring down IT expenses for organizations. Travelling back into time, you would be surprised to learn that cloud computing was the dream of every cyber-visionary during the 1990s. In recent times, perks such as reduced IT costs, zero maintenance, improved privacy, reduced downtime, and a lot more have made a large number of enterprises to switch to the cloud.

Needless to say, cloud computing in the tech era is an extremely hot topic and the ones interested in it want to know everything about it.

So without any further ado, let’s find out everything right from the basics to the latest cloud tools, strategies and more to make the most of this technology.

What is cloud computing and how does it work?

In simple terms, cloud computing is a platform that offers different types of IT services over the internet. Right from software to storage and networking, everything can be made available through cloud. Which means, enterprises now don’t need to focus on building a hardcore tech team to build software or do the maintenance bit. On the contrary, progressive development in cloud technology enables the pay as you go model, where enterprises only pay for what they use.

Interestingly, as individuals, we benefit from cloud technology almost every single day. Right from watching your favourite Netfilx series to using apps such as Uber or Zomato—these happen to be a regular part of the cloud services.

On the business front, cloud computing equates to enhanced collaboration, improved productivity, and significant cost reduction. It also means improved data protection and extended access to cutting-edge technologies.

What is cloud computing used for?

In a broader perspective, cloud computing is an umbrella term that caters to the following:

1. Storage

Cloud computing enables storage and backup of files used for regular access, information sharing, and syncing them across devices.

2. Backup 

Recognised as one of the most essential elements, cloud backup is very similar to cloud storage, however, the only difference between the two is that backup is used in the event of cyberattacks, system crash, and other events where data loss can take pace.

What are the essential characteristics of cloud computing?

In this section, it is time to understand what exactly makes up for cloud? As per the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), there are five interesting characteristics that broadly define cloud computing.

1. On-demand self-service 

This is nothing but the pay as you go model. This means, an enterprise can choose the service it wants to use and pay only for the ones the enterprise has subscribed to.

2. Broad network access 

Cloud computing gives enterprises the freedom to access services from anywhere using the web. The only pre-requisite necessary is a device (laptop, desktop, smartphone, or a tablet) with internet connectivity. So no matter where you are, you will be able to access cloud data and all thanks to the infrastructure that has servers installed at multiple locations.

3. Rapid elasticity

In literal terms, cloud has the capacity to grow and shrink based on requirement without affecting the users’ or user information.

4. Resource allocation

Another interesting aspect about cloud computing is its bandwidth that allows multiple tenants to share the same space and makes it possible to assign and re-assign resources. This means, no matter where in the world you are, you will be able to have equal access to your information on cloud; all that you need is a good internet connection.

So until we meet next, do find out the answer for the riddle below (Do not use Google to find out the answer).

Here we go…

Did you know why Juan was not worried about cloud security?

(Well, it’s time to think. I will give out the answer in the next write-up.) Until then, happy cloud computing.