Cloud computing provides various IT services in the form of applications to the end-user via the internet. Cloud technology is defined as a set of networks, hardware, services, interface and storage that are combined to deliver all aspects of cloud services. Some of the cloud services include infrastructure, delivery of software and virtual storage. Below we will look at the difference between cloud computing and cloud storage.
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing entails the sharing of software with different computers over the network, generally over the internet. That means the software does not necessarily need to be stored on the local machine. A good example is when a computer user wants to edit an image but he has not installed Photoshop on his own computer. The user can purchase and access Photoshop service from another computer on the internet.
Cloud computing is comprised of four characteristics that include elasticity and being able to scale up and down, application programming interfaces, automatic de-provisioning and self-service provisioning, and finally the ability to offer metering and billing of service usage.
Cloud computing services have become popular because they are convenient and affordable. With cloud computing, you will be able to keep your contacts, email and calendar. This will also allow you to view your content, edit and share with other devices that you’re using.
Google Apps is one of the cloud computing services that allows the user to view, edit, create and collaborate any office style documents including spreadsheets, presentations and word processor docs. Photos can easily be managed at Picasa and videos can be shared and uploaded through Google Video.
Cloud Storage
Disasters can be as a result of human or natural causes, and can easily fry your computer. Some of these disasters include floods, fire or power surges caused by lightning strikes, and all can destroy your precious files. Beyond these natural calamities, locally-stored data faces many other threats that include hard drive failure, accidental erasures and theft.
It’s hard to predict when and where the disaster will strike, but you can now store your data in the cloud through a storage management service. This data storage service will ensure that your files are safely stored and that they can be retrieved anytime.
Cloud storage can provide unlimited storage at a flat rate fee. This means that the user can store a large number of files since the service will not cap his limit. Cloud storage provides some useful features that make it possible to share and upload files in an easy and convenient way. The service will provide offline syncing, folder sharing and file versioning.
With online storage, you will have an opportunity to store digital files and access your data from various devices such as mobile devices and multiple computers. Cloud storage is a powerful service but simple enough for most customer to use. This online storage is supplemented with support and help options. Direct customer support is offered via email, live chat and telephone.
Cloud computing technology can be used in different forms that include private clouds, public clouds and hybrid clouds. This technology can change the way businesses apply technology to serve clients, suppliers and partners. Cloud technology can eliminate many constraints that are common with a traditional computing environment, such as space, power, time and cost.
