Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is a relatively new way of hosting websites from serves which do not belong to the site owner.

Allows users to focus on their website rather than their server capability.

What is Cloud Computing?

There is a group of companies which host the cloud servers.

They are paid for their resources Includes Salesforce.com and Google App

Engine.

Infrastructure

Computing platforms are provided as a service. Consumes cloud infrastructure to function.

Sustains cloud applications.

Platform

• Software as a service (SaaS) allows programs to run on a person’s computer without installation.

Application

Access to software is network-based. Servers are at central locations rather than

at every customer’s site. Updates are central. Site users do not need

to patch/install updates themselves.

Characteristics of Software as a Service

Cloud hosting is instant, and reactive to the amount of server space needed by a website.

Instantaneous

A site owner pays for the amount of power that they consume, not the server itself.

Money Saving

Supply of servers is easy to grow or shrink to match demand.

Scalability

Hosting your own server.◦ Costs more money ◦ Consumes more power◦ Requires maintenance

Alternative to Cloud Computing

Cost-efficient Doesn’t require as much hardware. More energy efficient Less chemical waste

Efficiency

Came from how people referred to the internet as a cloud of information.

Grew in popularity as people became more focused on sustainabilityand efficiency.

How did Cloud Computing Start?

Outsources information to a cloud. Business saves on:

◦ System Design◦ Installation◦ Maintenance◦ Remote Accessability

Advantages for Businesses

Do not have to worry about supporting complicated computer server software

No problem troubleshooting

Advantages for Businesses Pt 2

Serves more than 50,000 businesses The software service provider handles all

problems that would be associated with running a server.

Salesforce.com

Data is stored on third party systems. Possibly less secure than hosting your own

server. Inaccessible without internet. Rely on third party to maintain servers.

◦ Inaccessible if their servers are down.

Cons of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing allows users to store not just websites, but other information too.

Examples: ◦ Facebook photos◦ Dropbox◦ Google Docs

Cloud Storage

Allows users to backup data off of their computers.

Ideal for sharing files with other people. They are accessible without downloading anything onto your hard drive.

Cloud Storage Cont.

Facebook Flickr Hulu Youtube Pandora

Examples

Cloud computing is an up and coming way of hosting websites.

Indication of technological advancements to come.

Conclusion