Cloud computing” is a phrase many of us hear but may not understand.
This is because it encompasses several different
systems and services, making it feel ambiguous or confusing.
In this article, we share a simple definition of cloud computing, examples of computing, and discuss why companies use
cloud computing.
Simple Definition of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is the use of off-site systems to help computers store, manage, process, and/or communicate
information. These off-site systems are hosted on the cloud (or the internet) instead of on your computer or other local
storage. They can encompass anything from email servers to software programs, data storage, or even increasing your
computer’s processing power.The “cloud” is a term that simply means “the internet.” Computing involves the
infrastructures and systems that allow a computer to run and build, deploy, or interact with information. In cloud
computing, this means that instead of hosting infrastructure, systems, or applications on your hard drive or an on-site
server, you’re hosting it on virtual/online servers that connect to your computer through secure networks.
Examples of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is the use of hardware or software off-site that is accessed over networks for computing needs.
Examples of cloud computing depend on the type of cloud computing services being provided.The main types of cloud
computing include software as a service, platform as a service, and infrastructure as a service. Serverless computing,
also known as function as a service (FaaS), is also a popular method of cloud computing for businesses.
SaaS or Software as a Service. SaaS means instead of installing software on your computer, you access the
platform online. Examples would include:
o Square, which processes payments online
o Google Apps such as Google Drive or Calendar
o Slack, which allows collaboration and chat between other users
IaaS or Infrastructure as a Service. IaaS provides infrastructure components such as servers, storage,
networking, security, and moreover the cloud. Examples would include:
o Dropbox, a file storage and sharing system
o Microsoft Azure, which offers backup and disaster recovery services, hosting, and more
o Rackspace, which offers data, security, and infrastructure services.
PaaS or Platform as a Service. PaaS provides computing platforms such as operating systems, programming
language execution environments, databases, and web servers. Examples would include:
o Google App Engine and Heroku, which allow developers to develop and serve apps
Serverless Computing. Serverless computing (also called simply “Serverless”) is simply using a server on the
cloud. This offers more elasticity, easier maintenance, and is often more price effective than hosting servers on-
site.
Do Cloud Computing Services Have Physical Servers?
Yes. Cloud computing still needs servers to function; the servers are just “virtualized.” This means instead of your application, system,
or processes running off a single on-site server, they use multiple servers often in multiple locations connected to each other and your
device over secure virtual networks. This allows the cloud computing service provider to provide services to multiple people—and to
scale according to client volume—and deliver the service anywhere with an internet connection.
Why Does Your Business Need Cloud Computing?
Your company is probably already using several cloud computing services. For instance, all hosted email providers including Gmail
and Outlook are SaaS cloud computing services. So are popular CRMs and automated marketing platforms such as Salesforce,
Hubspot, Mailchimp, and more.However, for many companies, additional examples of cloud computing services include:
Virtual Machinesd ata Storage Backup & Disaster RecoveryI ncreasing Bandwidth
App Development PlatformsCloud-Based ServersInfrastructure Monitoring & ManagementBuild, Host, & Deploy
SaaS Services
10 Benefits of Cloud Computing
Not only does cloud computing help to save time and money in infrastructure building and management, but it also
typically yields improved platforms and service.
1 – Reduces IT Costs
2 – Managed by Experts
3 – Secure Environment
4 – 24/7 Monitoring
5 – Less Downtime
6 – Improved Speed & Bandwidth
7 – Improved Time to Market
8 – Better In-House IT Management
9 – Scalable/Elastic Services
10 – Accessible from Anywhere
