Cloud Computing

The article discusses using an application that allows workers to utilize one program for their job. The machines would be operated by other companies. The process is called cloud computing. According to Wikipedia, cloud computing is the delivery of computing as a service rather than a product, whereby shared resources, software, and information are provided to computers and other devices as a utility over the internet. The network of computers that make up the cloud handles the workload. The article goes on and discusses how some form of cloud computing is already being utilized through the use of email programs on a person's computer and web browsers.

There are positive and negative impacts when working with cloud computing systems. First of all, we will discuss some positive impacts. People are able to access their accounts from anywhere an internet connection is available. Cloud computing could save people money allowing people to purchase less expensive computer terminals. All information is stored on a remote server therefore not requiring a lot of memory on the owner's computer. Also companies don't have to buy software licenses for every employee. Companies don't have to use physical space due to having an option of storing data on someone else's hardware. Companies can also save money by not having to hire IT personnel for technical problems with the computers.

Let's discuss some potential problems with cloud computing. Many people are concerned with the idea of their information being handled by other companies. Companies must have reliable security measures when working with cloud computing systems or they will lose a lot of clients. Companies will need to find ways to secure clients private information such as authentication techniques or formats. Users will only have access to information that pertains to his or her job. If companies utilize cloud computing systems than there would be fewer needs for IT personnel.

There are many pros and cons to cloud computing and even if the pros outweigh the cons, I don't feel comfortable with utilizing the system. This dislike may or may not hurt the decisions I make in the future when running a company. I will get over this dislike very quickly because I don't feel my company would benefit especially with costs going up in other areas (light, gas, etc). In reviewing the article, lessons I have learned are computing systems can have a positive impact on a company by decreasing overall cost or negative impact by losing clientele due to ineffective security measures.