When you have to back up the photos on your Android phone, what do you do? You head to Google Photos, of course! Or when you have to host a meeting online, you use platforms such as Zoom that allows people to join from all over the world.
For this convenience, you need to thank cloud computing which made all of this possible. The primary requirement of cloud computing is an active, reliable internet connection since all cloud-based processes are carried out on remote servers.
In this article, I share some common examples of cloud computing and who knows you might be amazed at using them too, without realizing it!
What is Cloud Computing?
Before we begin with examples, you need to understand the concept of cloud computing.
For that, let’s consider a media company as an example. It would be impossible for the business owner to store and manage data on one server, right? If the server goes down, it would be difficult to access and manage data. This is where cloud computing steps in. Cloud computing gives access to resources such as storage, hardware, software, networking, and databases over a network which is typically through an internet connection.
Xfinity business internet has been great for my company in terms of accessing cloud computing. I’ve found the Xfinity internet speed to be fast enough to upload all data in seconds, flawless for online meetings on Zoom, and reliable for smooth flow of business operations. So, to make the best out of your cloud computing experience, ensure that you have a fast and reliable internet connection.
Three Main Types of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing itself is an umbrella term that is further defined by its three primary types, which has been broken down below:
- Software as a Service (SaaS): The cloud application services that we use come under SaaS or Software as a Service. These applications typically include Google Workspace, Drobox, Concur, Google Photos, and a lot more.
- Platform as a Service (PaaS): PaaS works a bit differently than SaaS. It provides a general platform that you can customize according to your needs, making your own application in a way. The storage, servers, and networks can be managed by a third-party provider while developers are responsible for general management of the application.
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Infrastructure as a Service gives the most liberty out of all three. It can be seen as a “self-service” platform where you can manage all components such as networking, accessing and monitoring computers, storage of data, and other services.
Key Benefits of Cloud Computing
A lot of people are opting for cloud computing because of all the benefits that it offers. It takes off a huge burden by slashing the need for a server if you are a business owner. Some other benefits include:
Easy access, anywhere!
The best benefit that you can get through cloud computing is easy access, wherever you might be.
For instance (though this isn’t related to business), if you look at DropBox as an example, not only can you access it while you are inside your house but whenever you are on the go while having an internet connection.
This makes it easier for you to share files with your colleagues, especially if you are working on a project that needs constant coordination. Anyone can make changes to the files as they deem fit. The case is the same with other applications such as Google Sheets, Google Docs, and so on.
Once you do all your work in collaboration, that too in real-time, then you’ll see an improvement in productivity. You can also review the work and give suggestions according to what you want.
Cost Reduction
Opting for cloud computing helps you cut down on costs, especially if you are running a business. Maintaining the entire Information Technology (IT) of your business can take a huge chunk out of your finances. You would have to invest in cables, network management, and servers.
However, if you opt for cloud computing instead, you can save up on all of these costs. You just need a fast and reliable internet service to access the cloud platform on the web, whether it is SaaS, IaaS, or PaaS.
Once you save enough money, you can make other upgrades to your business. For instance, you can get a faster internet connection so that all the essential processes are more seamless.
Flexibility
One of the most convenient things about cloud computing is that you can set up a virtual office no matter where you are. This makes it a perfect option for online businesses since not only the business owner but also the employees can work online and coordinate with each other that way. Now it’s convenient for them to complete their work no matter where they are, even when they are traveling.
The thing about businesses is that there is never a moment’s rest, you never know when some work could pop up and need attention. This is why I emphasize on the importance of having cloud computing service for your business.
Bonus Tips
I’ve been using cloud computing for quite some time now for my photography business. Here are some extra pointers to make your experience even better:
- Try purchasing the premium plans for most SaaS-based applications such as Google Workflow. This way, you can juice out the most out of your cloud computing service.
- Opt for SaaS if you have a small-scale business or a startup.
- If you have a media business too, make the most out of Google’s services such as Google One, Google Drive and Google Photos. You can purchase storage at a cheaper rate so that you can save yourself the hassle of getting external storage devices! Not only does this apply to media businesses, but to other businesses as well.