Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is where data, software applications and services are accessed over a network. The network of servers and connections is collectively known as the cloud. When users retrieve data or documents, they aren’t worried about where it came from or how it got to them. Cloud computing gives the idea that the cloud hides the packets or the complications of the World Wide Web processes to achieve each task at hand.

Current state of cloud computing

Cloud computing has already changed the way users use the internet. Companies and users can now use SaaS (Software as a Service) and Haas (Hardware as a Service) on the internet. This is also known as Utility Computing.

A SaaS instance would be where Office Live Workspace provides a service to a user that allows them to save documents on the network. The document is saved using the Office Live Workspace’s drive space on the network. Once the document is saved on the network it can be accessed at any time, anywhere on a device that has access to the internet.

A HaaS instance would be where Amazon EC2 provides a service where companies can purchase drive space and processing power to install applications on the network. This way the company doesn’t have to use their own hardware space up. They can simply use the drive space that Amazon has provided them to install their application. The applications can also be accessed from any device with internet access.