Cloud computing refers to any technology that enables data to be stored, accessed and transmitted over a network. Several approaches are being used, but all of them have their pros and cons. This article outlines the advantages and disadvantages of each approach, and briefly explains the most important one.
– Shared hosting.
This is a shared virtual server that allows multiple users to access the same applications at a single location. The services provided include accessing the same applications and data; setting up, maintaining, and deleting files, and folders as well as using the application software. This approach has several drawbacks that make it not recommended for a business.
– Dedicated hosting.
This is a dedicated server that allows the business to own the server and make changes as needed and retains all the services.
– Private clouds.
In this type of technology, the resources are locked in. Users must first connect to the data center and then log in to the applications.
– Cloud computing.
The main advantage of cloud computing is that the entire infrastructure runs from the cloud, and no physical servers are required.
Cloud computing has its own sets of disadvantages. The major disadvantage is the cost factor.
– Cost. The costs of a cloud are far higher than that of dedicated hosting. The majority of cloud solutions come with an annual fee, which can run into several hundred dollars per month. Some programs charge flat fees, while others may require paying monthly subscription charges.
While there are programs that allow private cloud users to pay in monthly fees, these are still expensive compared to the services offered by the public cloud. If the company does not use the cloud every day, then the monthly fee may not be justified.
A number of cloud-computing solutions can charge yearly fees, which are especially tempting for large organizations that do not need the cloud very often. However, these subscriptions also can be expensive and can cost more than the annual cost of dedicated hosting.
Virtualization is another technology that is found in some cloud technologies. Virtualization allows users to store applications in a device, such as a laptop or a server. The apps are normally “virtualized,” which means that the applications are stored as files and folders on the computer that hosts the applications.
The advantage of using virtualization is that users do not need to have any kind of local storage space for the apps they use. The files are stored on the computer, where the apps are available. With virtualization, users can avoid the expense of purchasing storage space on a physical device.
The disadvantages of cloud computing are the high cost of its usage and the possibility of being disconnected from the network when the application is needed. The costs of running the entire infrastructure can also be very expensive.