What is Cloud Computing?

Information is stored and processed somewhere else "in the ether" and is delivered where, when and how we need it. Typically it consists of a collection of related web based services. Analogies are being drawn between cloud computing and what Edison did for electricity. Prior to the grid, if you wanted electricity you had to own a generator and make your own. But then Edison facilitated the structure to allow you to buy electricity on demand with no capital expenditure. This is where computing is now going. Businesses will no longer need to invest in expensive hardware systems, manage software upgrades and retain expensive in-house IT teams. With cloud computing, businesses can access all the applications they need from any device that can access the Internet. Computing is becoming a utility just like electricity.

Cloud Devices

Cloud devices store nothing, they are purely a means to "draw down" information. They access online software through a browser and their architecture is 100% web based. As such, there are no problems with fire or theft and information is always available wherever you are at any time of day or night. The world is gradually being covered by "always on" Internet access via networks, WiFi or mobile phone technology. Access is by means of desktop computers, laptops, netbooks, smartphones, televisions or any Internet connected device.

Cloud Computing in Action

Google have experienced phenomenal growth and although they have only traded for a few years they already have a market capitalisation almost equivalent to Microsoft. They have an unbelievable worldwide infrastructure of computers and data centres with unparalleled levels of security and redundancy. The Internet is their business platform and as such they cannot afford to fail. 

At the time of writing 3,000 businesses a day are migrating to Google Apps, the majority from Microsoft Office. Why? With all the benefits of cloud computing it simply makes economic sense and ensures that companies can survive and prosper in the new digital age. Aspasia Cloud is integrated with Google Apps and as such benefits from tremendous advantages in the fields of communication and the sharing of information. Many of the new unique features of Aspasia Cloud have been made possible by the integration with Google Apps and other Google products.