Cloud computing has recently been mentioned as the future of the Internet. Not a lot of people may yet be able to get the idea of what this concept really works or how it would be able to change the online world and those who use it. But by further defining and discovering and formulating more innovative ideas detailing this concept, cloud computing may just become more and more appealing and interesting.

Basic Concept

The term "cloud computing" is initially based from the common metaphor used to refer to the Internet and how it is usually represented in computer network diagrams (as a cloud). The concept primarily relates to the idea of transforming IT related activities and capabilities as a service being offered online. Through cloud computing, the Internet may be able to provide online users with access to technology enabled resources as a form of service.

Cloud computing is essentially the establishment of a means where information and data are being permanently stored in servers connected on the Internet that online users and clients may be able to access from virtually anywhere. Its common purpose is to make the Internet the primary source to satisfy the computing requirements and needs of online users and clients.

Characteristics

The set-up for cloud computing is based on centralized computing. Clients and online users make use of computing infrastructure being provided by a service provider.

In essence, the client or customer does not own the infrastructure but merely gains access to it in exchange for a fee. In this case, the use of computing infrastructure including servers, database and applications and resources are being offered as a service.

Comparison

A simple comparison of how cloud computing works is through that of an electric utility company. In today's cities, most households are provided with electricity by a utility company that offers such services.

Instead of a household trying to source electricity by buying its own generator, it merely gains access to the electricity grid to get electricity in exchange for a fee. This way, the home gets its electricity supply without having to set up the necessary infrastructure which can be costly. This can be a simply way to describe what cloud computing would someday be like.