Cloud Computing

Published on Wednesday, April 08, 2009
ARTICLES

Lately, the term "cloud computing" has been all over the popular news, as users who never knew what a cloud was discover data leaks and changes in terms-of-use agreements.

Cloud computing is a style of computing in which virtualized resources, such as software or storage, are provided via the Internet. The virtualized resources are provided as a service instead of a physical thing that the user must buy.

You are most likely already familiar with, or using, cloud computing. Examples of the cloud are:

• Software as a Service (SaaS): Gmail, Facebook, Microsoft Office Live Online
• Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud
• Platform as a Service (PaaS): Google AppEngine, Windows Azure

Among the benefits of using cloud services are:

• Having access to robust and expensive computing power on an as-needed basis and therefore at a lower barrier to entry
• Easy collaboration on projects with shared, compatible software
• Instant access to archives and documents regardless of what computer you are using
• No more maintenance of software and systems because this is done "in the cloud"

However, every action has a counteraction. The potential risks of using cloud computing can be mitigated if you recognize the possible pitfalls and prepare for them. The risks of using cloud computing include:

• The user is subject to the whims of the service provider
• Security errors, like the issue where password-protected GoogleDocs were made available to all approved users attached to one account
• Loss of personal privacy in exchange for "free" services

The cloud remains largely free of anti-consumer counterproductive political meddling. Thank goodness. However, politicians are increasingly introducing well-intended regulations, as well as less-well-intentioned ones, that could strangle the benefits of cloud computing.

From a policy perspective, when you hear public servants - let alone businesspeople - talk about taxing internet usage, mandating open source software, creating an online security commission or requiring equal internet access for all, look into it carefully. It may well be regulation couched in the terms of fairness and safety.

Without a doubt, cloud computing will expand. The benefits of using such services are many. As with all things, simply understand the potential risks and, where important, develop contingency plans and alternatives to keep your organization floating along.

Nicole Williams is the management and technology advisor at SPN. Write her at williams@spn.org.