There’s been a lot of buzz about “the Cloud” lately hasn’t there? The term is starting to get thrown around quite a bit, but many people still aren’t sure what it actually means. In today’s post, we will be explaining what the cloud is and discussing some of its benefits.

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What Is The Cloud?

Technically speaking, it is really just a network of servers. There is a huge cluster of supercomputers out there working together – and these form what we know as the cloud. Found all throughout the internet, this server cluster has the ability to store massive amounts of data and also run web applications. The uses for the cloud are infinite. Whether you’re completing simple tasks, such as sharing photos with family and friends, or doing something more complex like managing a software company, you can do it all in the cloud. Pretty simple, right? Now let’s discuss something even more in-depth.

 Benefits of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing offers many benefits. Below is a list that can apply to both personal and business use:

  • Flexibility: One of the main benefits to operating within the cloud is that the cloud is so flexible. You can use cloud-based data and applications anywhere you can connect to the internet.
  • Economic Benefit: Investing in datacenter locations to store servers gets costly. By using a cloud service, much of this cost can be eliminated.
  • Expandability: Sometimes it is hard to gauge exactly how much storage and computing power you will need. It’s easy to end up with either too much or too little. With cloud computing, expanding is easier than ever. The moment you need more resources, you can expand instantly with a single click of a button.
  • Recovery From Disaster: Not long ago, complex contingency plans had to be in place in case disaster struck. With the cloud, a sticky situation can be resolved much more quickly. Many issues can be completely avoided by using cloud-based services.
  • Collaboration: It has never been easier to collaborate with others. By working in the cloud, documents can be kept up to date more efficiently than through email correspondence. When multiple people are able to access the same files simultaneously, more work can be completed in a shorter amount of time. Obviously, businesses love this!
  • Smaller Environmental Impact: When people use only the resources they need, the overall carbon footprint decreases. While individual companies experience cost reduction by utilizing cloud services, every one can enjoy the environmental impact. Because of its efficiency, cloud computing is great for reducing energy consumption.

 What to Remember

Cloud computing is everywhere. It is a powerful tool that has quickly become a part of every day life. You’re using it right now and you may not even realize it. Next week we will document some of the ways that you’re probably already using the cloud, and some other ways you can start.