Cloud Computing

Cloud Computing is a term that describes a wide range of online services and may have originated as a description of stylized “clouds” used to illustrate network system diagrams.

In the mid-1990’s telecommunication companies began to replace their dedicated point-to-point data networks with virtual private networks (VPN). The quality of VPN over point-to-point increased and costs were reduced. Cloud computing extends further, to cover servers, as well as network infrastructure.

Cloud computing dates back to the 1950s when large-scale mainframe access became available via terminal computers for academia and large corporations. As smaller and more affordable computers became prevalent, scientists and technologists explored ways to make large-scale computing power efficient and available to more user.

There are many types of cloud computing services. Some of these are:

• API as a service (APIaaS)
• Backend as a service (BaaS)
• Data as a service (DaaS)
• Database as a service (DBaaS)
• Desktop virtualization
• Infrastructure as a service (IaaS)
• Platform as a service (PaaS)
• Software as a service (SaaS)
• Storage as a service (STaaS)
• Security as a service (SECaaS)
• Test environment as a service (TEaaS)

The widespread implementation of cloud computing has helped to make it possible for professionals working in a variety of careers to work from home or their favorite coffee shop. Different levels of telecommuting has been adopted by customer service companies, media outlets, web design firms, email newsletter services, and online sales businesses, just to name a few.

Cloud computing has also contributed to new businesses that offer data backup to individuals and large corporations. The transfer of large files via a third party for people who need to share large volumes of information is another aspect of cloud services.