Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Cloud Computing : Microsoft puts Office in the cloud, confronts Google

Cloud Computing : Microsoft puts Office
in the cloud, confronts Google

Microsoft Corp is making its biggest move into the mobile, Internet-accessible world of cloud computing this week, as it takes the wraps off a revamped online version of its hugely profitable Office software suite.


The world's largest software company is heaving its two-decade old set of applications -- including Outlook email, Excel spreadsheets and SharePoint collaboration tools -- into an online format so that customers can use them on a variety of devices from wherever they can get an Internet connection.

Monday, June 27, 2011

Present and Future of Cloud Computing : What You Need to Know

Present and Future of Cloud Computing : What You Need to Know

The first conference was "The Business of Cloud Computing " sponsored by Opal Events. It was a relatively small event, but the content represented perhaps the best end-user perspective on cloud computing.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Present and Future of Cloud Computing : What You Need to Know

The second conference was Structure 2011, put on by GigaOM. It was also outstanding and carried the feel of a peek into the future of IT and just what a wrenching transformation cloud computing will impose onto established IT practices.

HP launches Sydney-based Government Cloud Computing Service

HP launches Sydney-based
Government Cloud Computing Service

 
Timed to pounce on public sector opportunity with Cloud Computing. HP Australia has launched a cloud computing service hosted in Sydney, designed to appeal to small and medium-sized public sector agencies. The vendor has patiently waited for agencies to get a green light from regulators to consume IT resources as a service before switching on its Government Secure Cloud Service (GSCS) from infrastructure housed within Sydney’s Global Switch data centre.


These racks can take on Government customers today and will be complimented by HP’s Eastern Creek data centre when it goes live next year.


Cloud Computing : Virtual Calculations

Cloud Computing : Virtual Calculations


Cloud Computing is a proposition shift which involves internet based computing. It is relatively a newer concept which has caught the fancy of many and is gaining popularity. It is the cloud which influences virtualization of technology and offers coherent segregation between different nodes which appear as different physical machines to the user.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Cloud Computing : Virtual Calculations

In simple words, cloud computing is a form of computing where shared resources, software and information are tendered to the computer and are managed in an implicit environment. From a wider perspective, Cloud computing involves both delivery of applications as services over the Internet and the hardware systems software in the data centres that supply those services. It involves connecting to virtually hosted environments being horded over the internet.

It is the usage of word cloud which represents the actual nature and structure of cloud computing. It involves delivering a host of services over the Internet referring to Internet as the cloud of applications and services available for access by subscribers using a modem attached with their computers. Cloud computing involves usage of various browser technologies such as Adobe Flash, JavaScript, Adobe Flex and much more.

A cloud service can be well identified based on its three distinct characteristics of being sold on demand, its elasticity tendency and available linked with per minute to per hour basis; differentiate it from traditional hosting services. Colossal companies such as Google, Microsoft, Sun, Amazon and many alike have the capabilities of rendering cloud software services instead of selling the software directly to the user.

It is an emerging field of computer science where the idea revolves around sharing and usage of applications and resources through a well managed network environment which assist in getting the work done in an efficient manner without any concern about ownership and management of resources. Modern day web browsers such as Mozilla Firefox or Internet Explorer 8 are widely used as interface software's in cloud computing software's. Even an email account with web based service providers such as Yahoo! Mail, Gmail or Hotmail, offers cloud computing facilities as the software and storage of the account is on the service's computer cloud and not in the local computer.

About the Author:
Shaun McGowan writes about cloud computing. For more information on what is cloud computing logon to cloudcomputing.com.au

Articles Source: Cloud Computing: Virtual Calculations

Cloud Computing : legal dos and don’ts

 Cloud Computing : legal dos and don’ts

by Maria Anassutzi

Cloud computing(CC)is the delivery of information technology services over the internet without the need for businesses to purchase or install software or run their own application and data servers. Applications are hosted in the data centers of the cloud computing provider, benefiting from massive economies of scale which in turn lower the costs of the service to the businesses.

Cloud computing services include: Software as a Service, Platform as a Service and Infrastructure as a Service, all of which involve delivering information technology components that had previously been regarded as infrastructure or hardware.

Benefits and risks

CC services offer to a number of benefits but also expose businesses to certain risks, although the risks are often ignored with the result that businesses may enter into a CC contract without having considered all potential issues including legal and compliance. Some of the benefits of cloud computing include: low, fixed charges; improved support and maintenance through greater competition between service providers; anytime, anywhere access; ease of adoption; greater flexibility with business requirements that can expand or contract as required. Some of the risks include: standard solutions may not precisely match business needs, limited warranties, indemnities, lack of integration and management of legacy systems, lack of control over data and content with potential data protection issues, risk of lock-in, risk of hidden extras for additional users, storage and so on, risk that a business fails to control usage or increased storage and ends up paying more than what it had budgeted for.

 Cloud Computing Basics :  Cloud Computing : legal dos and don’ts

What are the legal issues?

CC operators generally offer their services on standard terms. Standard terms tend to be for the benefit of the operator, including only limited warranties. In particular, CC providers may reserve the right to delete customer data for breach of contract, such as non-payment. For businesses this may be disastrous vis-à-vis their customers.

In the UK, standard terms between UK companies (and, in particular, any exclusions or limits of liability) are subject to the Unfair Contract Terms Act and must be reasonable. However, this requirement is not necessary in the event of international contracts (as most of the cloud computing contracts are). In addition, it is far safer to negotiate key provisions in advance rather than rely on statutory protection after an issue arises and business will need to know what kind of service levels and service credits will be offered to it. In the event of use of CC services for key operations such as outsourcing then, the parties must have a properly negotiated agreement including service levels and support.

The legal issues to consider are various and include: concluding contracts inadvertently; data protection; intellectual property issues and defamation; software licensing, open source use; liability; law and jurisdiction.

More in detail:
1)The risk of concluding contracts inadvertently: for example, if an employee signs up to a cloud-computing application using a computer at work for a purpose related to their employment, then the company could be bound by the terms of that CC service.

2)The risk of data protection compliance: if employees input personal data held by their employer into the cloud, the company must comply with its data protection obligations.

3)The risk of intellectual property infringement: liability may arise when employees post defamatory or copyright-infringing content into the public areas of many cloud-computing services. In all the above, appropriate policies, procedures and training must be given to employees to ensure compliance.

4)Appropriate licences: when users have online use of software at a computer without a licence, they commit copyright infringement. The licences granted by cloud computing operators are usually very narrow and limited to use of the online application for the business own purposes. Customers have no rights to make copies of or modifications or enhancements to the software, and they cannot sub-license to third parties. So the business, before accepting the software licence, must ensure that it can comply with its obligations and if not it must make the necessary changes to allow for sub-contracting or outsourcing.

5)Intellectual property issues: a cloud computing operator may not always own the intellectual property rights in the software that is the subject of the CC service. In this case, the operator will need to arrange for the right to sub-license the software to its customers, or for a direct licence to be entered into between the customers and the relevant third-party licensor.

6)Use of open source software: although the use of open source software helps keeping the costs down and many CC operators build their services using such software, the open source software licences vary considerably and some require onward licensing of source code when open source is incorporated into other software or deployed in a hosted environment, which could have serious consequences for businesses. It is thought however, that pure cloud services are not considered to involve a conveyance according to the General Public Licence Version 3 and therefore code disclosure requirements should not be triggered. However, it is preferable for businesses to check this issue with their provider.

7)Content licence: the standard terms offered by many cloud computing operators allow them to use any content stored on its servers. These licences are often expressed as being perpetual and irrevocable often giving the cloud computing providers the right to pass the content to third parties or use it for the purpose of promoting the cloud computing service. This may not be appropriate for information such as personal data, third-party intellectual property rights or confidential information contained in or attached to e-mails. Customers should therefore take care in identifying and amending any rights they are agreeing to provide to the cloud computing operator before they sign the relevant contract.

8)Liability: the cloud computing provider will seek to exclude all liability for content stored or posted on its services and will normally include a right in its standard terms to remove any data from its servers. This is because internet service providers can be liable for failing to take down offensive, defamatory or intellectual property infringing content and CC applications often blur the line between public and private networks. In these circumstances, corporate customers should seek an indemnity for any loss suffered as a result of material being unnecessarily deleted or moved and should look to impose a requirement to be notified in advance if any content is to be removed.

9)Intellectual property indemnity: it is common in all IT contracts to include an intellectual property indemnity for the customer's benefit in the event that a third party makes a claim that the use of IT products by the customer (particularly software) infringes the third party's intellectual property. However, it is important for the customer to ensure that such indemnity is not unreasonably limited or subject to unnecessary conditions. The inclusion of intellectual property indemnities in cloud-computing contracts remains important because customers have to rely on the cloud computing provider to ensure that software licensing issues have been resolved so as to entitle the customer to use the software as part of the service. One of the benefits of CC arrangements is that the burden of the upkeep of software licensing arrangements is generally lifted from the customer. However, if the arrangements are not properly made, the customer may still infringe the intellectual property of a third party even though it may have no knowledge of the infringement. Cloud-computing users need to be aware of the possibility of patent infringement through the use of cloud-computing arrangements. Patent protection is increasingly available for computer software in the US and in the EU. Where CC arrangements are established on an international basis, the intellectual property indemnity needs to be wide enough to protect the cloud services' customers in all jurisdictions in which the software will be used.

10)Jurisdiction and governing law: Where the parties have not expressly chosen a legal system in their contracts: (a) contractual obligations will be governed in accordance with the law of the country in which the party who will perform obligations characteristic of the contract has its habitual residence or central administration this will generally be the law of the place in which the CC provider locates its servers; (b) non-contractual obligations arising in civil and commercial matters between parties, the law applicable will be the law of the country in which the damage occurs or is likely to occur.

Also a business needs to take care during cross-border dealings to ensure that foreign law does not give rise to unexpected and binding non-contractual obligations (for example, duties of good faith in negotiations which do not exist under English law).

Under the Brussels Regulation a person domiciled in a contracting state may be sued in the courts of another contracting state where a contractual obligation is owed. A cloud computing provider based in the EU can be sued in all the jurisdictions in which it provides services to its customers. The Brussels Regulation also provides for mutual recognition and enforcement of judgments.

However, where the cloud computing provider is based outside the EU, jurisdiction will depend on the relevant rules of court relating to service of proceedings on the cloud computing outside the jurisdiction. Customers often take the view that the cloud-computing contract should be governed by their local law as this is the legal system of which they have greatest knowledge. However, this will be difficult to negotiate. Further, it may not necessarily be the most advantageous position. If the cloud computing does not have a sizeable presence in the customer's jurisdiction then any court order that might be obtained will be difficult to enforce in the CC provider's jurisdiction. This applies particularly between EU customers and US cloud computing providers and where there is a need to obtain emergency remedies against a CC provider for example, if the customer considers that its data has been misused by the cloud computing provider. In these circumstances, obtaining emergency remedies will generally be more straightforward if the governing law of the contract is the local law of the cloud computing provider.

This article is for general purposes and guidance only and do not constitute legal or professional advice.
Copyright 2010 Anassutzi & Co Limited http://www.anassutzi.com/ All rights reserved. Information may be shared or reproduced only if accompanied by the author's name and bio.
For more information email maria@anassutzi.com

Dr Maria Anassutzi Intellectual Property Expert has founded Anassutzi & Co limited Anassutzi & Co limited which offers high quality specialist intellectual property, information technology and commercial contracts advice.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Gadgets for Cloud Computing

Gadgets for Cloud Computing

A flood of simple computing devices is hitting the market, aimed at pushing the cloud outside of the enterprise. Samsung and Acer have announced Chromebooks, which are light laptops for users who rely on the Internet for most of their computing. Startup ITWin is offering a USB device that helps users access files on remote computers over the Internet. Panasonic has shown a Viera tablet for its TV sets, which the company hopes will jumpstart its cloud services business.


 Cloud Computing Basics : Gadgets for Cloud Computing

Chromebooks

Google is trying to push cloud computing to the masses through Chromebooks, which come with the Chrome OS, a thin version of Linux to run Web applications or light applications purchased from the Chrome Store.
Chromebooks are lightweight, albeit slightly expensive, alternatives to regular laptops. Google says Chromebooks provide instant access to the Web and a "faster, simpler and more secure experience without all the headaches of ordinary computers." Chromebooks have minimal storage, and applications and documents are stored in the cloud.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Telus, Huawei back Carleton University cloud computing project


Telus, Huawei back Carleton University
Cloud computing project

Carleton University has partnered with Telus and Huawei Technologies Canada Co. Ltd. to allow as many as 225 undergraduate and graduate students to begin research into cloud computing technologies. In cloud computing, data and processing are housed on large server farms rather than personal computers, and can be served up on demand. With all the work being done online in the “cloud,” computers are no longer limited by processor power or hard drive space. The shift is expected to reshape the future of computers.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Telus, Huawei back Carleton University cloud computing project

 The five-year partnership is worth more than $1.4 million, most of which will come in the form of donated services, equipment and technical expertise. The two corporate sponsors have also agreed to donate around $87,000 annually for the next five years to support graduate research into cloud computing. Huawei and Telus would get access to any new technology or service that comes out of the research partnership.


Cloud Computing - Four Questions Infrastructure and Operations Managers Must Ask

Cloud Computing - Four Questions Infrastructure and Operations
Managers Must Ask
By Denise Rutledge


No matter what business sector, cloud computing is beginning to offer Infrastructure and Operations (I&O) teams a new way to support the business they serve. Now in addition to the standard model of paying for the cost of servers, network, IT staff, rent, electricity and air conditioning when a new service is desired, there is another option. I&O can consider whether a cloud-based solution where cost is based on value received is a better choice.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Cloud Computing - Four Questions Infrastructure and Operations Managers Must Ask

Many organizations, especially in the financial services sector, may choose to start with a private cloud where the organization is the only user, and the cloud runs on their premises. They will probably migrate to this private cloud over time as opposed to a wholesale cutover to the new virtual infrastructure. Since, many of their applications utilize a service-oriented architecture (SoA) they can phase this in service by service. Public cloud may also be utilized for testing purposes or to run functions such as customer service. This means that a hybrid solution where some applications run in the datacenter, some utilize private cloud and still others utilize public cloud may be the most realistic solution for meeting the needs of the business these functions serve.
When evaluating whether or not to utilized the benefits of the cloud, I&O needs to ask four questions to ensure that the promises made by cloud computing are actually fulfilled.

Will using the cloud enhance IT expansion at a lower cost?
In order to find the answer to this question, the I&O team needs to take a close look at the company's existing IT assets. Identify any assets which are limiting the company's growth. Calculate the cost of upgrading these assets internally, then compare to the cost of using a cloud-based service. Many times the advantage of cloud is described as move of capital expenditures to operational expenditures. This is not exactly correct. It is really more about cash flow and whether you pay now or over time.

One issue that often arises during the evaluation of an existing IT enterprise is whether the current enterprise is operating at its full capacity. Knowing this information assures that purchasing decisions are fully informed. Before I&O can accurately assess the cost of an upgrade versus transfer of a service to the cloud, an application performance management tool should be implemented. The best tool will include application dependency discovery, change and configuration management, operational resource monitoring, business transaction management and application performance monitoring.

With this information in hand, I&O can identify where existing resources are underutilized and where bottlenecks occur. Making a decision as to migrate services to the cloud based on a need for additional capacity should be leveraged on real application performance data and not on guesswork. Then and only then can real costs be evaluated.

Will using the cloud enhance Lifecycle Management?
The best way to answer this question is once again to utilize the information supplied by an application performance management solution (APM). Because APM identifies how resources such as applications are functioning, it can assist I&O teams in evaluating where resources are in the IT lifecycle. APM can make it apparent that certain applications would benefit from a move to the cloud. Without this information, I&O can expect that moving an application to the cloud will meet the customer service goals of the business. Yet, I&O decisions should do more. They should also benefit the long- and short-term bottom line for the business.

How will I&O monitor Cloud activities?
Once applications have been deployed on the cloud, then a well-chosen APM solution becomes essential. Without a solution that can provide real-time 360 situational awareness and monitor every application whether it is on the cloud or in the datacenter, a business remains vulnerable to cascading failures that start small, but over time have the potential for considerable impact if unchecked. Considerable resources can be consumed in putting out the fires these issues ignite. When IT is hosted in-house without an APM solution, estimates suggest that 24% of the IT staff's time is spent troubleshooting applications issues that have already caused enough impact to end users to generate service requests. In addition research shows that up to 10% of a firm's gross revenue can be adversely impacted by application performance problems. This is quite a cost.

To attempt to provide quality customer service using cloud-based applications without using application performance management tools will inevitably result in a negative, expensive experience. It is essential that APM be in place, monitoring transactions, end-user experience, middleware messaging, and other aspects of the cloud and local IT enterprise constantly.

How will I&O maintain Cloud governance?
Once again the best answer is to implement application performance management tools. Governance includes everything from collecting historical application data and enabling dynamic queries, to detecting response time problems, bottlenecks, failures and application availability issues.

An application performance management solution should be able to determine the root cause of any failures and degradations that occur. It should then automatically alert the I&O team about any business impacting events it has detected. And it should have the ability to generate an automated response to resolve the issue detected. This will only happen if a complex event processing engine is controlling and automating the management of application performance.

I&O teams can only govern transactions that are visible. Application performance management provides that essential visibility. It provides inside into every application crossing through the multiple tiers of the IT enterprise, including integrated cloud applications. Whether the goal is to meet SLAs or maintain superior customer service, APM assures that every transaction is visible from end-to-end whether IT functions reside locally, on the cloud or on a hybrid of the two.

Application performance management assures that business goals are met. It delivers the financial metrics needed by I&O managers to accomplish two vital business roles--to manage assets so business costs are reduced, and to enhance the service delivered to customers. APM is an essential tool for any I&O team. It provides the answers to these all important questions.

Denise Rutledge enjoys researching and writing about technology products. She writes on many financial and business topics, including software solutions that impact business performance in the financial industry. In addition to working with clients to develop website content, she writes on how to make a living as a writer on her writing blog.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Denise_Rutledge


http://EzineArticles.com/?Cloud-Computing---Four-Questions-Infrastructure-and-Operations-Managers-Must-Ask&id=5756780

Monday, June 13, 2011

Apple iCloud - The Cloud Computing Platform From Apple

Apple iCloud - The Cloud Computing Platform From Apple
By Nano Speck


Apple is all set to launch their new cloud computing service 'iCloud.' This is due to happen at the company's World Wide Developers Conference held between 6th and 10th June 2011. Usually the WWDC was the even when Apple usually launches new iPhone or iPod version. Having done the launch of all those hardware well before this years WWDC, Apple seems well-focused in to software. This year Apple releases 3 major software technologies. The Mac OS X Lion - Latest version of their PC Operating System, iCloud- Cloud Computing Service and iOS version 5 - The mobile operating system that powers iPods and iPhones.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Apple iCloud - The Cloud Computing Platform From Apple

iCloud could be revolutionary
iCloud will replace 'Mobile Me' the current cloud service deployed by Apple. The new iCloud is expected to synchronize with all the data among the 5.1 million iPhone users and 1.3 million Mac OS users. The previous cloud service 'Mobile Me' was not such great success in the cloud industry. It's also revealed that the new Mac OS X Lion will be aggressively prices below $50. The previous OS version - Mac OS Leapord doubled the sales on setting a price tag to cheap 29$. The developers can expect a vast array of next-generation at development tool kits at the WWDC for iCloud, OS-Lion and iOS version 5.

Analysing the Market
A current analysis for the market of cloud computing may reveal that its a bit too saturated with competition. Almost all the giants in computing industry have already invested billions into this budding industry. Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, Google App Engine, Red Hat cloud, Intel cloud etc are some of the major players and there are also other smaller (though not so small) players like Salesforce, Proofpoint etc. Despite of the hard hit recession still lingering, people are madly investing in cloud computing stocks. With the 'fans' as their biggest asset, it's not going to be that hard for Apple to catch up with the race, still doesn't seem an easy ultimate outranking either.

iCloud a game changer?
With such a huge fan base of totaling more than 7 million. The way they are going to launch the technology is going to decide how the other players win the race. Trusted sources reveal that iCloud will be initially free of charge for those who use the latest 'Lion' version of the OS. This may result in compelling other cloud providers to lower their price as well to prevent losing their clients. However, with so many innovators coming into the industry it seems a wide horizon for the clouds.

More updates on Apple iCloud can be found at http://topcloudcomputingcompanies.net/?page_id=93. I am a dedicated analyst of cloud computing industry and writes for several blogs and websites. All cloud computing companies are analysed in the website http://topcloudcomputingcompanies.net/, you can request for any new cloud service to be reviewed and it will be done at the earliest. I love following up comments and giving personal response to my readers emails on cloud related topics.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nano_Speck

http://EzineArticles.com/?Apple-iCloud---The-Cloud-Computing-Platform-From-Apple&id=6327434

Cloud Computing : What is OpenStack, will it Succeed ?

Cloud Computing Articles

What is OpenStack, will it Succeed ?

Author: Kaushik

There has been a recent buzz in the Cloud Computing space with Rackspace announcing the launch of an open source cloud platform called OpenStack. We thought it would be a good idea to understand the platform and what it really means for Rackspace and the overall Cloud Computing space.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Cloud Computing : What is OpenStack, will it Succeed ?


What is Open Stack ?
OpenStack is an open source cloud platform with the source code for the project provided by Rackspace. The platform basically comprises the software that Rackspace currently uses to runs the Rackspace cloud. It allows organizations to create and offer cloud computing using the open source software on standard hardware. It primarily comprises of two pieces OpenStack Compute and OpenStack Storage. OpenStack Compute is the software for creating and managing large groups of virtual servers. OpenStack Storage is software for creating redundant, scalable object storage using commodity servers. Read More on our Technology Blog

Who is involved in the platform ?
Rackspace is a key proponent of the platform and indicates that there 25 other partners closely involved in defining the platform. They are MD, Citrix, Cloud.com, Cloudkick, CloudSwitch, Dell, enStratus, FathomDB, Limelight, Nicira, NTT DATA, Opscode, Peer 1, Puppet Labs, RightScale, Riptano, Scalr, Sonian, Spiceworks and Zuora

Licensing for the platform
The code is being released as an Apache 2 license which means third parties can redistribute the code, build proprietary software on it and distribute with restrictions.

Why do we need an Open Source Cloud Platform ?
Cloud Computing has been evolving very rapidly over the last few years with multiple vendors providing various cloud platforms and services. The lack of standards and variations in the various platforms increases the risk of a fragmented cloud market and vendor lock-in. Salesforce.com, Azure and Google Apps all have various levels of lock-in into the Cloud Platform. OpenStack is an attempt by Rackspace to be able to commoditize the Cloud by providing an open source alternative to the current proprietary platforms.

How does it compare to existing Open Source cloud Platforms ?
There are a number of open source platforms already in the market including Eucalyptus, Cloud.com, Open Nebula and Ubuntu Enterprise Cloud. Eucalyptus is the closest comparative platform to OpenStack and the key difference being Eucalpytus is a GPL license and also not 100open source.

Will it succeed ?
Well this is the big question. Will OpenStack succeeed in becoming the defacto open source Cloud Computing platform and influence and define Cloud Computing standards ? At this point this seems to be unlikely. Rackspace by making their Cloud Platform open source have signaled their intentions well and this primarly seems to be to ensure commodization of the cloud. This in turn would allow Rackspace to focus on their core competency of managed service. The evolution of the cloud over the last couple of years with large technology players like Google and Microsoft jumping into the Cloud market is a significant threat to their core business of hosting and managed services. However unless we see any of the large players like Amazon, Google or Microsoft involved as part of OpenStack initiative and any Cloud standards it is unlikely to achieve its objective of standardizing cloud platforms.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/information-technology-articles/what-is-openstack-will-it-succeed-2926763.html

About the Author
Kaushik Raghupathi is a senior IT Professional and Project Manager working out of India. Over the years he has worked on numerous IT projects with large sized teams. He is personally very fascinated around Learning methodologies in general and specifically around Community Based Learning. He is currently experimenting the concepts by working with students in this area.
Technology Trends Blog

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Cloud computing solutions : making users' work easier and simpler

Cloud computing solutions : making users' work easier and simpler


Author:jagjenny

Understanding the concept of cloud computing is not a rocket science. Cloud computing solutions give the perfect solution for your mobility. This statement does not clear the idea about this solution. Thus, we need to elaborate about the idea of this application. This is one technology which is installed on your computer to make your work easier and faster. Upon installing cloud computing application on your computer, you would be able to work remotely from your home or some other place. You need not to stick to your particular work station and drool over it whole day.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Cloud computing solutions : making users' work easier and simpler

There are several cloud computing solutions available in the market, which are giving upgraded customer solution. One of the most important kinds would be Saas and this application is popular for its single application. This kind of application is quite simple to use and you can access it very easily from anywhere. Due to its single application solution, you can use this application without any kind of hassle. Many companies are using it easily and you will get this application at much reasonable cost. While people are thinking of installing it, then they do not need to invest on server and software licensing.

One of the most popular names in cloud computing is Utility computing and this particular application is being populated by certain big companies like Amazon.com, IBM and Sun. This kind of solution is applied for making any kind of computing needs more viable to the common user. This kind of application is highly appreciable and acceptable by many companies. This application is not only one supplemental computing tool but also giving more solutions for the companies.

Another kind of cloud computing solution is much more like Saas. Any kind of exploitation of internet comes into the picture in terms of functionality while the matter of this sort of cloud computing comes up. Many users all over the globe are getting benefitted with the help of this kind of computing solution.

Now after a long discussion about cloud computing solution, we need to understand the proper use and application of the Cloud hosting. This kind of web hosting solution is nothing but the clutter of different group of servers, which involve several attributes. Thus, these groups of servers are known as the ‘cloud\' or ‘cluster'. Cloud hosting helps users to use all the important resources from several servers from the cloud. Different features involve in this kind of hosting solution are like power, processing speed, memory and hard drives etc. Anytime any kind of server can be removed or added from the cloud easily. The main part of this kind of computing environment ensures that if one server is not working properly then you can run your work with the help of other server from the cloud.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/software-articles/cloud-computing-solutions-making-users-work-easier-and-simpler-4889107.html

About the Author
Jag Jenny shares his knowledge on cloud computing solutions, cloud hosting that makes you able to find the plans that best fits your needs. If you want to know more on cloud computing solutions, cloud hosting – visit - cloud computing solutions and cloud hosting

What is Cloud Computing and Cloud Software

What is Cloud Computing and Cloud Software

Author:Ted Brumby

There was a time, in the distant past, when data and software had to be stored and processed on or near the computer of the person using it. Of course 'the distant past' in the computer world could refer to the previous twelve months. In this case, it means up until the late 1990s, when 'cloud computing,' both as a concept and as a practicality, began to become a reality.

 Cloud Computing Basics : What is Cloud Computing and Cloud Software

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has a technical definition: 'Cloud computing is a model for enabling convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction'.

In other words, cloud computing is the on-demand provision of computational resources such as data and software through a computer network instead of from a local computer. Users perform a task to without having the required software or hardware on-hand. The user\'s computer may only contain a basic operating system and/or web browser that simply serves as a display terminal which has been connected to the Internet.

Cloud computing is an extension of LANs, or local area networks, which allowed several storage devices or CPUs to be organized to increase the performance of the entire system. Cloud computing allows a functional separation between the software and hardware used, usually outside the LAN, and the user\'s computer. This location is often in a remote datacentre of some kind, perhaps hundreds or even thousands of miles away.

Practically, this means that any user, as long as they have an Internet connection, can store and access files such as bookmarks, pictures, music, and videos. The user no longer has to carry a DVD or thumb drive to perform word processing tasks and even play games, but can accomplish these tasks on a remote server. Today, even email can be used with cloud software, whether it's web-based, company owned, or a client program.

Why the use of the term 'cloud'? It\'s a metaphor for the Internet, based on how the telephone network used to be represented, and later to depict the Internet in computer network diagrams which depicted its underlying infrastructure. In cloud computing, details are removed from users, meaning that they don't need to have expertise, or even control over, the technology infrastructure as long as they\'re in the 'cloud' that supports the technology they're using.

Cloud application services, also called Software as a Service, or SaaS, deliver software as a service over the Internet. This eliminates the need to install and run the application on a user\'s computer, which simplifies maintenance and support.

A good analogy of cloud computing is most people\'s use of electricity. For most of us, all we have to do is flip a switch to use it. We don't have to control or even understand the technology behind it. As a matter of fact, most of the technology we use every day can be understood in this way.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/software-articles/what-is-cloud-computing-and-cloud-software-4833186.html

About the Author
Ted Brumby has been running a small business for a while and so he guarantees that technological devices such as cloud software or crm tools are vital implements for all businesses. According to Ted, cloud computing means mobility and speed in daily procedures, supporting and generating good quality of work for all staff.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

The Power of Cloud Computing

The Power of Cloud Computing

Author: Walter Scott

If a business wants to survive, it must be able to adapt. We can say that flexibility is the name of the game. If you can't meet the changes happening in the marketplace, then you are putting yourself at a loss. Being able to work anywhere, at any time, is now a must for most businesses. Many operations may require workers to be in different locations, and it can be costly to arrange for transportation. This may call for the use of cloud computing. Cloud computing service providers are effective means to improve a company\'s business operations. This also allows the firm to tap into brilliant employees whose locations may be difficult. It can also free businesses to concentrate more into improving their business.

 Cloud Computing Basics : The Power of Cloud Computing

Australia has a lot of business potentials. It has a good pool of talented people who can get any job done. Of course, there's the location issue. A lot of people reside in places that are difficult to travel to. Or, they may live somewhere else. There\'s also the fact that a lot of firms need software applications for their work but may not have the budget or the facility to accommodate one. Also, not all companies would need to use the applications all the time. This opens up a market of people who needs applications on a case by case basis. It should also enable people to have access to their work anywhere they are. It's just fortunate the cloud computing services are available to address that growing need. It breaks barriers and allows many companies to work with the best available, regardless of distance or location.

Cloud computing is a form of service where servers provide software and data processing power to clients. These services can be accesses through any computer, as long as a stable internet connection is established between the server and the client. While connected, the client can file, process, save, and even edit the information contained in the server. Given the global nature of most businesses, it's a must for many business owners. They can travel around the world, oversee the operations of their branches, and still be current with the demands of the business. Such is the power of cloud computing. What may seem impossible to do before has become a commonplace practice of many firms. It's not just that. More and more companies see the advantages of using cloud computing solutions for the work at hand.

This is made even more obvious with outsourcing. There are many people in Australia who can work with companies. More often than not, they don't even need to be physically present in the office. Just give them the work that needs to be done, and they'll do it. Software applications need not be downloaded into the employee\'s computer. Just have them log in to the company\'s central server, do their work using the applications available there, save it, and there, it's done. Software designers, web content writers, virtual assistants, all these people don\'t need to be the office at all. As long as they have software applications that will unify their work, progress is possible. In fact, some companies now offer cloud computing services to their clients.

Cloud computing solutions carry a lot of implications in the business. It can be the answer many firms are looking for. Also, there\'s the fact that talent that is not locally available can be sourced somewhere else. Cloud computing service providers are there to lend a hand. They can help your business remain profitable. Who knows, cloud computing might be the answer that you need.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/web-hosting-articles/the-power-of-cloud-computing-4200507.html

About the Author
Walter Scott is a professional webhosting solutions consultant. To learn more on webhosting providers in Australia, visit http://webvisions.com.au/

How Cloud Computing Edges Out Other Hosting Services

How Cloud Computing Edges Out Other Hosting Services


Author: Walter Scott



At the present time, there are various web hosting services being offered by different hosting providers firms in Australia. Popular versions of which include shared hosting, reseller hosting, dedicated server hosting, virtual private server hosting and cloud computing. Even though they are under one umbrella, each kind has its own benefits, features, disadvantages and price tag. Some would say that beginners need shared hosting because it\'s cheap and light. Others digress and would recommend server hosting for optimum use. For those that want to gain profit, many would refer them to reseller hosting. But the million dollar question is: which is really the best among the cream of the crop? As of now, I would gamble for cloud computing.

Cloud computing is one of the unpopular hosting service nowadays. This is of course not because it is ineffective or it is costly. But, it is owing to the fact that it is not yet widely used and only several people understand its concepts. So to speak, it does not have anything to do with the cloud we see in the sky. But, the general idea revolves around it. First and foremost, cloud computing is an IT application wherein every resource needed-storage, software, applications, operating system, infrastructure- are stored over the Internet. Simply put, there is no need for hardware, like servers, to run a computer program. All you need is the World Wide Web. Free emails such as those provided by GMail and Ymail are perfect examples of what cloud computing is.

 Cloud Computing Basics : How Cloud Computing Edges Out Other Hosting Services

So, why bet for cloud computing? There are a lot of answers to this question. For one, it is cost-efficient. Your company will be relieved from the large expenses associated with hardware acquisition, installation and maintenance. Add to that, you do not have to hire IT experts who will monitor your tangible equipments. Second, it is flexible and easy to implement. The absence of hardware makes it convenient and fast to start the service and make upgrades at the drop of the hat. The third boon refers to remote accessibility. As long as there is Internet connection, you and your employees can browse files and other information whenever and wherever you so desire. This allows you to do your work even when at home.

Furthermore, web hosts in the Land Down Under secures your data. Their facilities have been engulfed with safety measures that will prevent or reduce the damages of natural disasters. Hosting providers have employed IT experts that are proficient in the administration and troubleshooting of their resources. This does not only mean less chances of viral attacks, hacking and data loss but also giving you ample time to focus on your core business. Next, it is environment-friendly. The lesser need for physical devices greatly reduces hardware and energy consumption. This, in turn, diminishes carbon dioxide emissions.

The evolution of web hosting services has been a great blessing for all. Cloud computing has brought a new way of doing IT services. It does not only save money to be used for critical functions. More than that, it is now possible to conduct IT activities without the reliance on hardware components. If you want to change the way you see web hosting, then go for cloud computing. And when you are ready to embrace it, hire an Australian web host to get the best results.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/web-hosting-articles/how-cloud-computing-edges-out-other-hosting-services-4674127.html

About the Author
Walter Scott is a professional web hosting solutions consultant. To learn more on web hosting providers in Australia, visit http://www.webvisions.com.au/


Step Up Your Hosting Experience: Try Cloud Computing

Step Up Your Hosting Experience: Try Cloud Computing

Author: Walter Scott



If you are a total stranger to cloud computing, then I bet you will find it difficult to grasp the whole concept. However, as you get to know this hosting service, you will be surprised to find its great use, convenience and applications. To start with, let us first unveil the idea of what a 'cloud' is. Cloud is a design that has been hovering in the business community for a long time. It means a network of computers serving as the architecture to deliver data and software. It is the same thing that runs online giants like Amazon, Gmail and Facebook.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Step Up Your Hosting Experience: Try Cloud Computing

The 'cloud' is the set of networks, hardware, storage, services and interfaces that are put into one to provide computing services. These services comprise of delivering software, storage and infrastructure over the Internet. It allows you to use applications without the need for installation, and at the same time, access personal files at any computer as long as there is an Internet connection. In a cloud computing system, demand for hardware and software is greatly reduced. The cloud computing system\'s interface software is the only thing to operate and the cloud\'s network handles the rest of the job.

'If you need milk, would you buy a cow?' This is the perfect analogy of how cloud computing works. By this, it means that you do not need to buy the cow (both software and hardware) just to have the milk (which pertain to the benefits). With cloud computing, most things can be served to you whenever and wherever you desire. Look at how emails work, like Yahoo mail and Gmail. You don\'t need z physical set-up just to send a digital message.

So, what types of cloud computing services are being offered? Well, there are three common categories. First is the SaaS, abridged form of Software as a Service. SaaS deliver software as a service over the internet. There is no need to install and run the application in the companies own computers thus eliminating the need to maintain and support. However, subscribers of this plan cannot modify anything on the software. There is also a PaaS or Platform as a Service. This is a way to rent operating systems, storage and network capacity and hardware through the Internet. This a application allows a company to deply different types of applications without adding expenses and support costs by buying hardware and software that are needed. The third one is the IaaS, the abbreviation of Infrastructure as a Service. It provides infrastructure on demand. It can be anything from applications to operating systems. More often than not, IaaS can save you a lot on space, personnel and other expenses.

On the other hand, you will get the best results and benefits with cloud computing. There is this upper hand of remote accessibility. This hosting service allows you to access the services anywhere, without the restriction of a specific area. Just do not forget your ID and password. It is also flexible. There is no need to purchase additional infrastructure if you want to expand your business. Since the process if automated, the expansion will only kill a few minutes. Cloud computing is also stuffed with extreme security, with less data loss and less prone to hacks. Lastly, it is an energy-saver and helps to protect the environment. Without the need for large computers and other components, you save on electricity, thus, decreasing fatal emissions.

In picking a hosting provider, you have to be very careful and adept. If you are an Australian business, one good option is to subscribe for a local cloud computing service. Why? Aside from the fact that web hosts in the Land Down Under provides relentless customer service support; they are also the best service providers in terms of cloud computing and other web hosting services. So, enjoy the features, advantages and benefits of this new wave. The future of IT is in the clouds.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/web-hosting-articles/step-up-your-hosting-experience-try-cloud-computing-4379345.html

About the Author
Walter Scott is a professional web hosting solutions consultant. To learn more on web hosting providers in Australia, visit http://www.webvisions.com.au/

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Top 5 Tips For Cloud Computing Security

Top 5 Tips For

Cloud Computing Security


Author: OnlineTech

Are you hesitant about adopting cloud computing services into your IT infrastructure? You are not alone. Data security is the leading concern for IT professionals when it comes to cloud computing. Services like Amazons EC2 are simply not equipped to address the security and privacy needs of data-sensitive organizations. Because public cloud services offer server instances for many clients on the same hardware, your data can get literally 'lost in the clouds' when you have very little control over where your data lives.


Private cloud computing allows for the control that most PCI and HIPPA-sensitive organizations require over their data. When it comes to security, the importance of control over your environment cannot be overstated, and leads most IT professionals to adopt private cloud hosting over the public cloud.

When comparing cloud options, here are 5 security tips to consider:

Tip #1: Know where your data lives. How can you secure your data if you don\'t know where it is? Sure, firewalls and intrusion detection and prevention can keep out most intruders, and data encryption keeps the data safer, but how do you know where your data goes when you terminate your service or when the cloud provider goes out of business? Being able to point to a machine and say your data and only your data is on that machine, goes a long way in the security of your data in the cloud. Dedicated hardware is the key that allows for cloud computing services to pass the most stringent security guidelines.

Tip #2: Always backup your data. One of the most overlooked aspects of cloud computing and one of the easiest way to increase the control of your data is to make sure that whatever happens, you have a secure backup of that data. This is more about securing your business than your actual data but provides the same type of peace of mind. We have seen big companies like T-Mobile lose its customers data, by not having a backup, leaving them with nothing.

Tip #3: Make sure your data center takes security seriously. By knowing which server and data center your data is being stored at, you can probe them for all applicable security measures that are in place. You can see if they are SSAE 16 or SAS 70 audited, and if they have clients that are HIPAA or PCI certified. Managed services can also add a great deal of benefit and expertise to making your applications, data, and business more resilient. Services like managed firewalls, antivirus, and intrusion detection are offered by reputable data center or cloud providers, and allow for increased security measures for managed servers.

Tip #4: Get references from other clients. When in doubt, ask your cloud provider for client references that require stringent security measures. Financial, healthcare, insurance, or government organizations are a good start. While references don\'t guarantee anything, chances are if other companies that have similar security goals are using the provider, you may be a good fit as well. Be sure to contact these references directly when possible to see what these companies are using the cloud services for, and the steps they have taken to secure their data.

Tip #5: Test, Test, Test. Assume nothing. The only way to make sure something is secure is to test it. It is not uncommon for highly data-sensitive organizations to hire a skilled ethical-hacker to test their security provisions. Vulnerability scanning and assessments are just as important inside the cloud as they are outside the cloud. Chances are that if you can find a way to get unauthorized access to your data, someone else can as well.

Conclusion. Achieving sufficient security assurances in the cloud is possible but it is not guaranteed. Just like any other IT project, you have to do your homework and in the case of security, it is better to be safe than sorry. The private cloud hosting model can certainly provide a more secure framework than the public clouds.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/web-hosting-articles/top-5-tips-for-cloud-computing-security-3938930.html

About the Author
Online Tech offers a full spectrum of hosting solutions including basic colocation, managed colocation, managed dedicated servers and private cloud hosting in our Michigan data centers. We can deliver our data center solutions more cost effectively, with lower overhead, less risk and better support than most IT departments can do themselves.

Worldwide Cloud Computing Adoption - An Insight

Cloud Computing : Worldwide Cloud Adoption - An Insight

Author: Saumya Aggarwal

Service providers and IT vendors are all taking a crack at offering cloud computing services that leverage Software-as-a Service (SaaS, Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) and Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) approaches to meet a wide range of business requirements. Some companies like Amazon, IBM, Sun Microsystems and Google are offering public clouds in which resources are dynamically provisioned on a self service basis over the Internet via web applications. On the other hand, some IT vendors like NaviSite, Rackspace and Terremark are offering cloud on private networks, which ensure greater security, corporate governance and reliability.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Cloud Computing - Worldwide Cloud Adoption - An Insight

Since Cloud Computing is an evolving concept, IT vendors need to consider key components of the cloud computing strategies when making long term deals that may or may not include cloud services in present but might in the future. For example, IBM aims at delivering cloud services directly to clients and helps them create their own cloud technology environment. Similarly, HP is focused on developing cloud services for automated IT infrastructure, cloud implementation, social computing and web based services. TCS is still planning out a cloud computing strategy and focusing on the services to add for both public and private cloud environments.

Then there are some cloud computing vendors offering enterprises the chance to run not only business applications but also custom developed applications in the cloud – with greater flexibility to scale computing power. Most of the providers are either offering cloud services for clients via consulting, delivering cloud services (which can include aggregating services from other providers), or both. Clients should be clear about whether a particular service provider is implementing, managing, or delivering the services provided by external cloud providers or their own internal capability.

NaviSite has recently launched its powerful enterprise managed cloud services, NaviCloud to deliver infrastructure as on-demand, scalable, and usage billed services. NaviCloud combines the economies of scale of a public cloud with scalability and flexibility of an internal cloud to cater enterprise requirements for security, availability, flexibility, and performance. NaviCloud uses VMware\'s vSphere and Cisco\'s Unified Computing System to provide a robust enterprise-class cloud platform.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/networking-articles/worldwide-cloud-adoption-an-insight-2514894.html

About the Author
To explore how NaviSite could help you with applications management services, please visit http://www.navisite.com/.

Switch To Cloud Computing

How To Switch To

Cloud Computing?


Author:Saumya Aggarwal

With private clouds, the IT providers can make elementary changes internally in how their IT infrastructure is deployed and run to get the benefits of cloud computing. An application hosted in a private cloud environment can allow you greater scalability and reach to bigger customer base. There are some key steps businesses can take to reap the benefits of cloud computing before they go for cloud-based environment:  

     Cloud Computing Basics : Cloud Computing - How To Switch To Cloud Computing ?
    
  • Do Your Homework –Before jumping to cloud computing wagon,understand your business needs and take decisions accordingly. Do you need agile, faster and secure application? And if yes, at what cost? Focus on how many applications can be adapted to cloud-based environment and keep note of the deployment time, cost, value, performance factors. A sound homework would save you from any future hassles.

  • Choose a Trusted Service Provider – Choosing a trusted and capable cloud computing provider will solve your most concerns. Try to get as much information about your service provider prior to entering into a relationship. Select a company that has widespread expertise in running a standard, global enterprise infrastructure with hosted private cloud-based solutions. Ensure your cloud service provider can provide rock-solid private cloud services and will handle all facets of your cloud environment.

  • Access Enterprise Features – Ensure that the cloud computing services you are paying for include enterprises features. This would not only ensure world-class service but also many standard components like static IP, persistent storage, and certain amount of free bandwidth etc. You can go with companies like NaviSite. NaviSite is a leading provider of cloud enabled enterprise hosting and application management services, offering a comprehensive suite of customized IT as Service solutions.  

  • Build a Cloud Prototype – Don\'t go for all out transformation for the entire IT set up. Start with a small prototype – a cloud of, say around, less than 50 machines. Choose applications which are supposed to get most benefit from cloud environment. Compare their past performance, cost, value etc. to the cloud-based results. And then move forward accordingly.   

  • Evaluate Control Level – Evaluate how  much control you have on your applications as cloud is famous for providing you greater choices of how you want to run your applications and what you can apply from a service-level agreement standpoint to those applications. Go for the comprehensive documentation and evaluation of internal control that will be needed to support management\'s assessment.  

  • Commit to a short-term service contract – Initially avoid making a long-term contract. A short-term contract of six months or so will give your company more leverage over service quality and related issues, particularly as the renewal date approaches. This will help you judge the service provider in proper measures.  

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/web-hosting-articles/how-to-switch-to-cloud-computing-1943956.html

About the Author
NaviSite Cloud Computing Edge
NaviSite's inexpensive cloud computing. infrastructure help start ups and established enterprises manage their IT infrastructure, leaving more funds available for a number of attractive opportunities.

Why You Should Know About Cloud Computing?

Why You Should Know
About Cloud Computing?

When you first hear mention of cloud computing, a pastoral image of an expansive blue sky dotted with puffy clouds might come to mind. As you might have guessed, however, cloud computing has nothing to do with cirrus, stratus, or cumulonimbus clouds. Instead, it is all connected to computers and how software, servers, and storage resources are provided over the Internet.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Why You Should Know About Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing is a computing model that is tied to virtualized and scalable resources that are provided as a service over the Internet. Software, processing, storage, and support might all be supported by the cloud Computing. Examples of this sort of service are Hotmail, Gmail, and Facebook. With these services users run applications like email and networking applications over the Internet without actually having to purchase software, server space to store information, or provide their own technical support to resolve problems. Instead, users simply access the applications and let the application services take care of the
rest.


Ten guiding Cloud Computing principles from Salesforce.com

Ten Guiding Cloud Computing
Principles from Salesforce.com

JP Rangaswami of Salesforce recently posted ten guiding cloud Computing principles that Salesforce has been working for quite some time. The Cloud Computing principles are aimed with openness, standards, transparency, trust andso.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Ten guiding Cloud Computing principles from Salesforce.com

Here they are, ten cloud Computing guiding principles, in draft form:
1. Transparency: Companies that provide enterprise cloud computing platforms should explain their information handling practices and disclose the performance and reliability of their services on their public Web sites.

Cloud computing for business goes mainstream

Cloud Computing for Business
Goes Mainstream

Cloud computing has been an information technology buzzword for many years. Now it is going mainstream.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Cloud computing for business goes mainstream

But what is cloud computing? In the simplest of terms, it is IT-as-a-Service. Instead of building your own IT infrastructure to host databases or software, a third party hosts them in its large server farms. Your company has access to its data and software over the internet (which in most IT diagrams is shown as a cloud).

Cloud Computing fans claim five key benefits:

Is Cloud Computing Right For You?

Is Cloud Computing

Right For You?


Author: Saumya Aggarwal

Wherever you look today, you see the CLOUD. Well! It's the CLOUD COMPUTING that I'm talking about! Some call it Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), some Software as a Service (SaaS) and others as a Platform as a Service (PaaS). Players like IBM and Google have already positioned themselves strongly in this arena whereas others like Yahoo, Microsoft, eBay and Salesforce.com are not far behind. Everyone is not only talking about cloud but also seriously considering the option of switching to cloud-based environment. Unlimited computing power and collaboration at a massive scale makes cloud a perfect solution for enterprises of all sizes.

 Cloud Computing Basics : Is Cloud Computing Right For You?

Since Cloud Computing is still evolving, enterprises need to understand their needs and decide whether their business can tap the benefits of cloud or not. So let's begin with the five most important questions they need to ask about cloud when evaluating the cloud environment vs. their business goals.

Key questions before you embark on cloud computing services:

1. Are you looking for on-demand dynamic capacity? Do you need high scalability in the way you run and manage your applications? If yes, then cloud computing is right for you. By leveraging hosted private clouds, you will get more flexibility and unprecedented control in allocating resources dynamically. You can quickly respond if there is an application request for more storage in a more flexible, highly dynamic, highly virtualized environment.

2. Is your business or industry demands stringent compliance needs? Regulatory compliance is a critical issue in today's time. Non-compliance can damage your business and harm the image of the organization. The vendor you choose to provide cloud computing services may not have appropriate support for required compliance needs. Your data, which is stored in cloud, may be compliant in one location but not in another location. This may harm your data and impact your business goals negatively.

3. What is the preferred technology and platform for your organization? Your current technology, application framework or platform used in business will decide how easier or tougher it will be for you to migrate to cloud environment. The same application framework can be utilized to access the cloud-based service of a PaaS (Platform-as-a-Service) provider. Migration from your existing platform or technology to cloud environment is going to be much more difficult than you can imagine. The issue of lock-in becomes more challenging when you think about changing your cloud computing service provider. So try to see the level of interoperability your existing IT infrastructure would require to adapt to cloud environment. With hosted clouds, the IT providers can make elementary changes internally in how their IT infrastructure is deployed and run to get the benefits of cloud computing.

4. Do you have limited budget? Have you got a very tight budget and can't spend much on building expensive IT infrastructure? Then cloud is a tailor-made choice for you. The cost of entry to hosted private cloud is low. Hosted private cloud services are priced modestly. Not just that, Cloud computing minimizes or eliminates the ongoing costs of traditional on-premises applications such as software maintenance, patching and upgrades etc.

5. Where are your end-users located? If your end-users are located in a definite location, then they can be served with a nearby data center. But if they are spread across the globe then internet would be used as a platform to deliver your applications to the end-users. And this scenario provides you more hosting options and greater advantage through cloud-based solutions. With hosted cloud, applications are always current and the end-users can get an enhanced experience.

When you are choosing an implementation path for Cloud, make sure you are considering these questions and other key aspects (like cost, time to market, performance etc.) that you will need to tackle in a cloud environment. Choose wisely! If you have decided that your business could also benefit from the promise of cloud computing, the next step is to select a service provider you can trust.

NaviSite, an established leader in cloud-enabled services, offers NaviCloud, a unique cloud-based platform that meets your enterprise-wide hosting and application management needs. NaviSite's inexpensive cloud computing infrastructure helps start ups and established enterprises manage their IT infrastructure, leaving more funds available for a number of attractive opportunities. You can leverage NaviSite's recognized experience and expertise in cloud-based enterprise solutions.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/advertising-articles/is-cloud-computing-right-for-you-1907429.html

About the Author
Log on to NaviSite for the most comprehensive and cost effective cloud computing solutions.