Cloud services are popping up all over the web, an indication that the future of technology rests in the clouds and it doesn’t seem likely to be headed back to earth any time soon. Microsoft is reportedly devoting 90% of its research and development to cloud computing technology and the Google Chromebook is a new mobile device run entirely by the cloud service Google Apps. The tech universe is turning into a Cloud City, every Star Wars fan’s dream come true.
Cloud computing uses the internet to share and provide information, software, and resources instead of the traditional, tangible products that require storage or use from a physical locale. In the same way that you can access your email from any computer or mobile device, you can use the cloud to access documents, data storage, or software products from anywhere with an internet connection. This is where cloud computing services come into the picture: They enable laymen and professionals alike to take advantage of cloud computing for business or personal purposes. Let’s take a look at a few cloud services that can help organize and modernize both your personal and professional life:
- Google Apps: Google apps is ideal an ideal loud service for small businesses, granting users access to email, Google Docs, Calendars, IM access and much more. Users only need to pay $5 a month for the full range of services, to it is perfect for a business on a budget.
- iCloud: If you are an Apple loyalist, than this I the cloud service for you. The iCloud was just released his fall and it has mega storage capacities for all of your personal and professional needs, from documents to photos. The iCloud stays true to Apple reputation of being equally useful for both the average, everyday personal user and the high-powered business executive
- Microsoft Office 365: Microsoft Office 365 allows you to use all Microsoft software without having to install it on your computer—you can just run it through the cloud. It facilitates video calls and instant messaging and is at very affordable at only $6 a month. Definitely worth it for small businesses, but also useful for students or anyone frequently using the Office Suite.
Above are some of the major names in the cloud service game. Amazon.com also runs an established cloud service, but they are still recovering from a cloud crash debacle earlier this the year that has diminished consumer confidence in their brand. The Amazon crash underscored the fact that there are still many cloud computing kinks to hammer out, but rest assured it is here to stay. The brisk pace of globalized life has facilitated the development of cloud computing services because now more than ever before, we need to be able to access our information from anywhere.