Cloud computing is a technology in which data and programs are stored and accessible via the Internet from a remote location outside of the organization. The term was first used in 1997 at the University of Texas, but the technology has been in development since the early 1980s. Besides Oracle, there are a number of organizations that use or develop technologies that implement cloud computing, such as Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, IBM, and Cisco.
Typically, if a firm were to handle their own data in-house, they would have to manage any applications, data, hardware, and software. Until recently, there were three types of cloud computing that an organization could choose from to eliminate this issue. Each type of cloud computing service separates the data that needs to be handled in-house versus what data can be stored at the location of the cloud. Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) allows a business to subscribe to applications through the Internet. In SaaS, the organization is able to manage only the application that it subscribes. Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) allows a business to create custom applications for the organization. In PaaS, a business needs only to manage the applications and data need to develop the custom application. Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) allows businesses to essentially rent space in a cloud from larger companies. In IaaS, the business will be able to manage the applications, data, run time, middle ware, and operating system, while renting out servers, storage, and networking. The cloud can also be deployed publicly or privately. Organizations can own and manage public clouds for quick access and to decrease the need to purchase and maintain the hardware and software needed to support the data and programs. An organization can own and manage a private cloud if they wish to have more control of the data.
Cloud
computing technology offers several advantages for organizations. It
provides a flexible means of storing and accessing data for
organizations. If an organization needed to add or decrease storage
space in the cloud, they can easily do so, while only paying for what
is actually used and nothing else. Backing up and recovering data has
become a simpler process for organizations as all the data is stored
in the cloud and firms only need to contact the cloud service
provider if recovery is needed. As long as there is Internet access,
the cloud is accessible. This allows organizations and individuals to
travel between different geographic locations while still being able
to access necessary data and programs from the cloud, such as for
telecommuting. Cloud computing does have a few disadvantages, such as
being prone to technical and security issues. If the system is down
due to outages or if an organization or individual does not have the
proper Internet connection, they will not be able to access the
cloud. Because the cloud is simply the Internet, it can be prone to
security breaches. When an organization decides to use cloud
computing methods, they essentially give up any and all information
and data to the cloud service provider, including classified and
sensitive information. Organizations must be aware of the increased
chance of security breaches and should only use reliable cloud
service providers if they choose to use the technology.
With
almost unlimited storage space, easy accessibility, and flexible
payment methods, it is no wonder why cloud computing has become a
popular method of storing and accessing data and applications. Over
80% of larger companies in North America are either contemplating or
using the technology, with this number expected to rise throughout
the years to come. Cloud computing has even become a resource for
individuals to use to store music and purchase items over the
Internet. Though cloud computing is a generally new technology with
improvements that can be made, it is expected to continue to evolve
and may even become the primary resource of data storage.
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