When we talk about “the cloud,” we are simply referring to the Internet. “Cloud computing,” on the other hand, is a way of running computer programs where part of the work is done on external servers, rather than entirely on the user’s computer. It is a relatively new and growing trend. Currently, we can have word processors, spreadsheets, image editors, or file storage “in the cloud,” etc. The user accesses these applications (called “services”) through an Internet connection.
Of course, “cloud computing” is not intended to completely replace the conventional way of running programs, as it has the disadvantage of constantly having to send and receive data from the cloud. However, it offers many advantages that make the two approaches complementary.
Among its advantages are the following:
- Mobility. You can access your data from any computer with a network connection, and even through a device with 3G.
- Compatibility. Services work through a web browser, so it doesn’t matter if you use Windows, Mac, Linux, or a portable device.
- Lower Requirements. By shifting the processing load to an external server, the user needs a less powerful machine, allowing for the use of smaller devices with longer battery life.
- Security. Data exchange is done through encrypted connections, preventing interception. Additionally, data is not stored on the user’s computer, protecting it from potential viruses or information theft.
- Backup. External servers perform their own backups, making it almost impossible for data to be accidentally deleted or lost due to a computer failure.
- Sharing. It is very easy to share files with people you choose.
- Collaboration. Many web applications allow multiple users to work on the same document simultaneously, which is not possible with the traditional way of running programs.
