From the ‘buzz’ word in the computing world, cloud computing has matured as a full-fledged business strategy that holds many advantages and applications. Even now a lot of enhancements and innovations are going on to make The services faster, better and safer. This article analyses that applications and advantages of cloud computing from a business point-of-view.

In simplest words, cloud computing is the utilization of internet for computing requirements. In an ideal atmosphere businesses only need devices and connectivity to internet. Data, software, applications, storage, networking, security and everything else will be made available to you by your cloud service provider. Currently there is a range of cloud services are available on pay-as-you-go, rental, prepaid and annual fee basis. Some most common cloud applications include Software as a Service or SaaS, Cloud hosting & storage, Security as a Service or SECaaS, Infrastructure as a Service or IaaS, Backup as a Service, Platform as a Service or PaaS, Monitoring as a Service or MaaS and Communication as a Service or CaaS.

Advantages of Cloud Computing to Businesses

The first and foremost important advantage is the cost. Usually with clouds there are no initial investment requirements for infrastructure. Additionally there are no maintenance costs, cost of infrastructure or software upgrade, license fees or in-house IT teams. Usually there is a variety of service packages available to suit every business needs.

The second advantage is the availability of unlimited services. The services may be priced per head or on a flat rate. Most cloud service providers offer the unlimited option on number of users, storage capacity, backup size, user access and almost everything possible. Generally there are no additional costs; even if there is any it still can be very low.

Cloud computing offers easy and universal access of data, applications and procedures. Generally, all cloud services are available any time anywhere there is internet. Moreover, users and businesses not need to bother about the settings and customizations. You can access your data and applications from any computer or device in they way you configured.

Cloud computing offer automated and no-cost updates. The cloud server providers are very keen to offer you top quality services and also automatic updates is one of the basic features that is enclosed on the agreement.

Disadvantages of Cloud Computing to Businesses

Cloud computing with its current setup not suits all kinds of businesses. These services favor large and mid size businesses and businesses who rely highly upon information technology. These services also need stable and reliable internet connectivity; the lack of which can jeopardize the whole idea of cloud services. The data and applications are always hosted on external third-party networks and computers; and data transfers over internet are always prone to attacks.