The Cloud is......
The term "the cloud" is a metaphor for internet based computing. Whenever you access the internet, do a search for information, access online entertainment like "Netflicks" or listen to a favorite song on itunes - you are in the "cloud". In other words you are accessing information that does not reside on your device.
Before internet access, information that you accessed was present on the "hard drive" of your device. You could "save" documents, pictures, etc directly to your device or "save" your resources to a "physical" external hard drive or thumb drive for extra storage space.
Software was "loaded" onto your device via software discs - often done by tech support staff.
With the wide availability of the internet, individuals now can access information, work with colleagues around the world and access software on demand which can be updated to newer versions without having to "purchase" physical materials such as software program discs, manuals, etc. Because the internet and the ease of access to resources, software, information and people, we don't think of the "process" we just easily access what we need for little or no cost at all.
The Cloud as a Virtual Storage Space.......
The general use of the "cloud/ internet" as a resource tool has enhanced the potential knowledge base for users. The specific use of virtual storage applications such as Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, Amazon's
Virtual storage of your documents, pictures, software / apps, music, etc. has been stressful for some users. User concern is usually in regard to the chance of "loosing" resources plus the loss of privacy of individual information.
Because, as the image illustrates, items saved to the cloud are essentially "shattered" into tiny data bites and "stored" on many many cloud drives all over the world. The chance of any recovery of a "whole" item is extremely unlikely.
Because, as the image illustrates, items saved to the cloud are essentially "shattered" into tiny data bites and "stored" on many many cloud drives all over the world. The chance of any recovery of a "whole" item is extremely unlikely.
Cloud Storage Applications.........
Just as there are many word processing applications, there are many options for virtual storage. Each option has its own unique features but all have in common the storage of information and data on the internet utilizing a virtual file system. The storage of information in the virtual storage environment makes it accessible to you and to other individuals that you allow access via a "sharing of files" feature whenever you can access the internet on any device. Since you can share information with colleagues access presentations and documents remotely the ability to work and share anywhere anytime has redefined how we work and play.
