Cloud Computing

Define Cloud Computing.

· Cloud computing is virtual storage, in the sense that data isn’t on a tangible hard-drive like in computers. Instead data is kept on the internet, and can be accessed from anywhere provided there is internet access at the location. Cloud computing is thus linked to the usage of the internet as a highway to access/synchronize, and transfer data. It is currently gaining increased popularity with companies like Apple, and Google (Griffith, 2015).

1.Describe the difference between the Public Cloud and a Private Cloud.

· As the name implies, public clouds are used through the internet, charge a monthly fee to users, requires no storage device (because data is kept in the cloud). A public cloud also lacks a supervisorial entity watching over it. This makes data vulnerable to security risks. Public clouds are easily accessible from anywhere.

· A private cloud is more restrictive for both users and in terms of infrastructure/security. Private clouds are often employed by organizations for internal use, and thus have firewalls and are monitored by users or supervisors in the organization. Private clouds are similar to closed circuits in that the cloud is for the members in the organization, and its’ trusted confidants. When using the private cloud, users “pay as you go” meaning as more GB’s are used, the costs of using the private cloud go up. This could be seen as a disadvantage in cost when compared with the public cloud which is a flat rate per month. The private cloud also employs the internet as a means of storage, and can be accessed so long as permission is given to the user from members of the organization ("Public Cloud Vs. Private Cloud", 2011).

1.What are the various “services” offered through Cloud Computing? (Hint: SaaS is one.) List them and describe them.

· Infrastructure as a Service is when the organization/user is given the necessary equipment which is connected to a network. The amazing part with this service is that it molds to the needs of the user instead of the user adapting to its needs. The next service is Platform as a Service, which is “the computing platform is given to the user, with the operating system and required software (Ganore , 2012).”

· Software as a service relies on the internet for users to access the software, which must be paid for when used. This is software that is available anywhere and “on the go” allowing for portability for users. Hardware as a service is leasing the equipment to use the service. This allows the user or organization however to “make it there own” in the sense that personalized infrastructure can be used with software that