Lifting the Fog with Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is one of the latest catch phrases that the technology marketing engine has been pushing. The actual term, appears to have come from the idea of using a "cloud" to graphically represent the internet. So it really means internet computing.

If it is really just internet computing, haven't we been doing that all along? Yes and no. Yes, when you open an internet browser and start using the internet, you are doing internet computing. For instance a search utility would be used to find a subject. When you are done, that information for all intensive purposes is gone (we will ignore the fact that they save your search).

What makes cloud computing a bit different than traditional internet browsing is what you get when you do the computing. Cloud computing may or may not be run like a traditional internet application. It's the data that is generated that makes it different. It's YOUR data and it should be secure.

In a traditional, non-cloud computing environment, you will work with application such as a spreadsheet or word processor and then save your work in a document file. This happens locally or over a local area network (LAN). In a business, the later is more likely and the documents are held on the LAN as well. This is because in a business, they want to be able to control the flow of data, back it up and keep it on reliable media. You secure it with the network perimeter, permissions and so forth.

In the "Cloud Computing" environment, your data stays at the data center and is secured using many of the traditional methods using permissions and network perimeter. The internet breaks the perimeter bounds but it is virtually recreated using encrypted connectivity. The applications may run locally and access the data remotely or it may run both the data and application remotely via a browser.

Examples of cloud computing could be Salesforce.com, autotask.com or http://www.cygem.com/services-office.aspx

So what is the advantage of cloud computing? Here are some reasons a company may want to use cloud computing.

• Reduce dependence of onsite technical staff and equipment
• Get enterprise technology with a small business budget
• Workforce is mobile
• Workforce is geographically disperse
• You want to purchase only the technology you need

So in summary, cloud computing supports remote access and the management is on the service provider not the end user.