Chapter+7-Cloud+Computing

__**What is Cloud Computing:**__ Cloud Computing is Internet based computing, where shared resources, software and information, are provided to computers. Typical cloud computing providers deliver common business applications online which are accessed from another web service or software like a web browser, while the software and data are stored on servers. Most cloud computing infrastructure consists of reliable services delivered through data centers and built on servers. In general, cloud computing customers do not own the physical infrastructure, instead they rent usage from a third-party provider. They consume resources as a service and pay only for resources that they use.

Benefits of Cloud Computing

 * Allows users to make use of applications, services and software they would otherwise not have the physical or technical capabilities to use
 * Prevents data loss by placing data on servers that are more reliable and secure. Such servers often store data in multiple locations.
 * Allows data to be accessed from any computer with the required Internet connection
 * Increases productivity and efficiency by allowing resources to be used on expanding business function as opposed to the upkeep of technology

Drawbacks of Cloud Computing

 * The data owner does not have direct supervision over the data processors
 * Data placed in the "cloud" (ie: the Internet) is less protected than data that remains in a private computer or network
 * Technology has outpaced the ability of government to develop timely regulations and ensure privacy.
 * The data owner loses complete control over data accessibility and destruction. Problems such as data outages, wrongly employed encryption, accidental deletion and failed destruction of files are all risks involved with storing data with a cloud computing service.

Read more at Suite101: [|Choosing a Cloud Computing Service: What to know when deciding on a Software as a Service providers] []

Articles: http://www.infoworld.com/d/cloud-computing/what-cloud-computing-really-means-031 http://www.itworld.com/server-and-data-center/104262/7-things-you-need-know-about-cloud-computing [] [] http://www.wikinvest.com/concept/Cloud_Computing http://searchcloudcomputing.techtarget.com/sDefinition/0,,sid201_gci1287881,00.html Videos: media type="youtube" key="hplXnFUlPmg" height="385" width="480" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hplXnFUlPmg http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdBd14rjcs0 [] [] []media type="youtube" key="QJncFirhjPg" height="385" width="480" media type="youtube" key="8RMWO9JxZjA" height="385" width="640"

Links to Cloud Computing Tools: http://cloudcomputing.sys-con.com/node/650408