As computer technology allows computers to become smaller and desktops to become virtual, Cloud computing was created to allow accessibility to data in real-time collaborations. The advantages of Cloud computing far outweigh the disadvantaged and will become mainstream in the near future. As more data is moved to the Cloud, internet security will become more important than ever and will require a specific skill-set of teams who work together, due to the amount of collected data and security vulnerabilities. Amazingly, the Cloud has facilitated a way to keep resources at your fingertips albeit hosted miles away and consists of several diverse file formats stored in mass storage arrays that allow access from remote corners of the planet. Many companies have realized that Cloud computing is far less expensive and requires less upkeep than what is required to purchase and maintain server rooms of their own, making it a popular choice in competitive business practices. Companies will have choice in a competitive emerging market of Cloud service providers and will need to determine if the Cloud provider they choose can provide what the business requires in a timely manner. Lastly, the Service Level Agreement is an important document of agreeance that will be the binding contract between clients and Cloud providers to determine services agreed upon and rendered to the customer, reiterating that it is not the size of the business that determines the effectiveness of the Cloud; one Cloud can service many.
However, amongst the advantages of Cloud computing, there are still disadvantages to include severe privacy concerns as well as finding the personnel with the skill-set to secure and manipulate the data. If the framework of data storage in compromised, it can allow data records that may compromise an individual user’s privacy to be accessed from anywhere in the world, with little recourse to the victim. As the Internet expands and includes users from all over the globe, Cloud computing is a unique way to unite them under the same virtual umbrella.
I personally uses Dropbox to meet my needs for all data storage. I've downloaded the app which allows my phone to sync all my data to my Dropbox account overtime. I connect to a wireless internet source. I can reach my files from whichever device I am on, all for only $99 per year. With a trans Pacific move under my belt in recent months, digital organization has been integral to my successful transition. Rather than carrying a bulky external hard drive or several thumb drives or DVDs.
Cloud storage via Dropbox has been an easy way to keep all my files with me, wherever I may need them.
