FAQ: What is cloud computing?
"Cloud computing refers to IT services that are purchased and delivered on demand over a network, either the public Internet or a private IP-based network. Cloud computing services are powered by highly virtualized processing and storage systems in data centers that are made available via a Web interface to remote users."
Cloud computing offers a business several advantages – including faster set-up, easier scalability and no capital expenditures for hardware and software. This is an attractive option for companies wishing minimize cash outflows. Some examples of cloud computing are Google Apps, Salesforce.com, and ConnectedPay.com. These services allow businesses to have the benefits of large network without the required capital investment, IT staff, and development time required to maintain the desired services. Google Apps allows users to share and edit basic office software tools over the internet. Salesforce.com offers a Customer Relationship Management suite that can be accessed by sales staff from home. ConnectedPay.com helps businesses accept online credit card payments for services rendered 24/7 even if the business isn't on the web.
Each of these services is dedicated to making business more efficient by providing their subscribers with powerful IT tools at a low cost. Cloud computing goes back to the term "re-inventing the wheel". Why should a business spend loads of money to create a static, in-house version of a service that is accessible anywhere there is an internet connection. Since hundreds/thousands of independent businesses are using the services, each service provider continues to develop more and more features which makes the product even more desirable.
