Understanding Cloud Computing Basics: What You Need to Know to Work in Tech

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These days, when you save a document or share it with a co-worker, you probably do so through the cloud. The cloud has become an easy and effective way for people to store and share files, including documents, videos, and photos. But what you might not realize is that the cloud is responsible for so much more than file storage. The apps you use, the emails you send, and the music you stream are supported by cloud computing.

Where is the Cloud?

When you hear “cloud,” you probably look up. But the cloud that’s all about the internet isn’t up in the sky, at all. It’s actually a bunch of computer servers in several different locations around the country and the world. These huge data centers store information where they are, so that you can access them wherever you are. Cloud computing consists of a variety of services, including networking, databases, operating systems, and software applications, that are available over the Internet. This method of delivery offers several benefits to businesses and is an important tool to learn if you want to work in tech.

How is Cloud Computing Used?

Cloud computing allows users to access services such as web and mobile apps across multiple devices. You’ve probably used the cloud to store your own personal files, but it’s also used by companies to:

  • Create web and mobile apps
  • Store and back up data
  • Provide TV shows, music, and movies via streaming
  • Embed intelligence models into websites to capture customer data
  • Host email services

There are public, private, and hybrid clouds and different companies may choose different services. A public cloud is owned and operated by a third-party provider such as Microsoft or Google, which may be helpful to small business. A large company may choose a private cloud, which they have more control, or a hybrid cloud, which combines both public and private cloud computing services.

Types of Cloud Computing Services

If you want to work in tech, you should be familiar with the different types of clouds as well as different cloud computing services:

  • Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)—This method provides operating systems, servers, and networks through the cloud.
  • Platform as a Service (PaaS)—This allows web and app developers to use the cloud as a means to create websites as well as web and mobile applications.
  • Software as a Service (SaaS)—This allows companies to share their software applications with customers.

Benefits of Cloud Computing

There are several reasons cloud computing is appealing to businesses. It allows users to access their content from any device, and even across multiple devices. It can potentially increase your customer reach, and it allows employees to access information and stay connected to the company even when they travel or work remotely. Here are a few other benefits of cloud computing:

It Can Save Money

While the initial switch to cloud computing may cost a bit of money, you can potentially save money in the long run. Most cloud computing services are pay-as-you-go, which means you pay for what you need when you need it without being charged for services you don’t use. Cloud computing can also eliminate the need for expensive hardware and software on location—not to mention the electricity they consume.

It Can Be More Secure

Security is a top priority for businesses, and cloud computing can help them keep their data safe. Most cloud hosts constantly monitor it for any potential threats or risks. And by storing data offsite, companies can ensure that only those who need to access it can. According to a recent study, more than 90% of business surveyed said they saw an improvement in security after switching to the cloud.

It Can Be More Efficient

Because cloud computing can eliminate the need for certain hardware and software, it can free up the IT team to work on other tasks. Some cloud computing services, such as the Adobe Suite, allow users to update their apps on their own, which can be more efficient for both the customer and the company.

Do you want to learn more about cloud computing? At Charter College, we offer an Associate of Applied Science in Computer Networking Systems that can teach you about cloud computing, application development, and Windows administration. Call us today at 888-200-9942 or fill out the form to learn more.