Cloud computing technology provides a virtual storage, assemblage and data processing platform on a remote platform supposed to be virtual. On this remote storage and processing platform, multi-tasking functions are possible. This ranges from secondary storage, backup, inter-connectivity, streaming etc. In this article, I assayed what cloud computing is and how users can engage the technology.
The digital hi-tech industry all over the world has been working on the framework of the cloud computing technology. This is evident in some aspects of the super hi-tech computer-based wireless communication such as live streaming. Furthermore, cloud computing technology provides soothing solution to real-time data sharing and management. I seek to make you understand the reality of the “cloud”. Could it just be a term employed to mask and re-brand the reality in digital computer communication and data share, making it appear futuristic?
The Idea of the “Cloud” Technology
This is one of the ground-breaking innovations of the 21stcentury computing technology. The technology enables information sharing from remote locations in real-time. Many believes that data really exist in the cloud but this post tells you the truth about the cloud computing. However, cloud computing makes it possible to access your data from anywhere and any time. Evidently, cloud computing technology has advanced the course of super hi-tech digital communication. The application of cloud technology cuts across areas such as;
- Data Backup and Recovery after disaster
- Complex data analytics
- Information or data storage
- Research and development
- real-time data transfer such as in live streaming
Unfortunately, most people truly believe that the “cloud” is so real that information stored in your cloud account actually exists in the clouds. This misconception mostly affects the developing world with Africa at the epicenter. Understanding the concept of the cloud computing technology and its reality will help you know more of its usefulness as well as the associated risks.
The Truth about the Cloud Computing Technology
In reality, there is no such thing as data storage in the clouds. However, we can call it a virtual cloud, meaning that it looks like it exists in the cloud but in reality does not. The truth is that every data you store in your cloud account actually saves in the super computers of your cloud service provider. Today, a lot of technology giants offer cloud computing services. Companies such as IBM, Google and Microsoft are leading in the cloud computing technology services globally.
However, cloud service becomes most appropriate name since one can access data from anywhere and at anytime. Furthermore, whoever has access to your cloud account logging details would be able to access and share data with you in real-time. This is how the cloud computing technology has become huge solutions to many business application problems today.
The Risks in Cloud Computing Technology
With the cloud computing service, it means that your precious data is stored in someone else’s computer. However, your data is available to you through a 100% uptime service. Here are some risks you run as a result.
Data Privacy Safety and Security
As you entrust your world of data into the hands and control of another cloud computing service provider, you cannot fully guarantee your information security. Although one of the strongest terms of service by cloud service providers is the assurance of security and privacy of personal data. However, there have been instances in the past of breach of this very important term. So watch it!
Only Internet Availability gives you Cloud Computing Access
In Africa where internet access is not yet at its fullest, what promise of efficiency does the cloud communication technology hold for prospective subscribers? Without the internet, you cannot access the cloud. Most times, only the broadband or the 3G and higher internet network can sufficiently guarantee a smooth experience in using the cloud computing technology services. For instance, the new 5G super fast internet network speed ensures real-time data exchange in cloud communication. This means that until the internet is made richly available for all and at all times especially in Nigeria and Africa, cloud computing may remain a mirage to many.
Service Provider Outages
A common scientific phrase holds that “no system runs at 100% efficiency”. This can also apply to the providers of the cloud communication technology services. You will instantly lose access to your precious data the moment your cloud service provider experiences an outage or downtime. This experience could cost a lifetime of fortune or life-saving business opportunity, so watch it!
Limited Contract Bargain and High Cost of Cloud Service
Most cloud communication service providers do not give ample opportunities for intending subscribers to bargain on the contract terms of service. Consequently, it may become costly to run on cloud. This has led some big companies to ditch the clouds and revert to in-house data storage.
There are many more benefits as well as risks associated with the cloud communication technology but at least you have come to terms with the fact that cloud technology is never really in the clouds but in physical storage locations.