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Parters in Our Cloud Computing Environment

Cloud computing environment is a new, great approach to providing IT-related services. In fact, this approach is a dream of numerous business owners who wish to get all possible IT services at one place. In the era of informational society this kind of services is becoming more and more popular, as it helps entrepreneurs resolve all IT challenges within one company quickly and efficiently. In simple terms, cloud computing environment is all about IT and what IT needs: different kinds of software and hardware, pay-per-use or subscription-based services offered both through the Internet and in real time. So, let’s define the most common kinds of services which usually refer to what we call cloud computing.

#1SaaS or Software as a Service

Because all businesses are unique they may require unique software to perform their tasks. It can be very costly and ineffective to purchase pricey tools which you are going to use partly. For this reason there are SaaS companies, like isutility.com. Software as a service firms help resolve any issue regarding software required for your particular service. These companies license various applications on a pay-per-use base or a subscription.

#2 Utility Computing

This service is probably the most popular element of the cloud computing environment. It implies ability to access virtual storages, as well as purchase capacity on the remote servers (this option is more popular than buying specific machines). Utility computing is a provisioning model that maximizes the efficiency of the used service by minimizing IT-related budget. The term ‘utility’ is used as an analog to other services, like electrical power, where customers pay for consumed product, rather than a flat rate. This approach is also known as ‘metered service’.

#3 Platforms

IT platforms of foundations are a variation of Software as a Service. By delivering platforms, IT firms provide customers with whole development environment rather than just single application. Such platforms encompass all tools required for developers’ work.

In addition to the aforementioned services, cloud computing implies other functions, anything from installing hardware to virus scanning. In fact, any kind of IT-related service that was ‘outsourced’ falls into the ‘cloud’ of the company that provides complete computer services.

The Advantages of Cloud Computing

Oftentimes, business owners are reluctant to use this approach to IT service provision for their enterprise because of the existing mindset regarding the role of IT for the organization. This barrier doesn’t allow entrepreneurs discover the true levels of their business power. Unfortunately, not all business people realize the apparent benefits of utilizing cloud computing services. Some of them include:

  • Flexibility: pay only for services that you use.
  • No capex. Cloud computing minimizes the IT budget, and normally doesn’t involve ‘flat rate’ payments. This is very beneficial for companies that are going to make large investments into IT.
  • Security and service. As a rule, service and security levels offered by cloud computing firms are much higher than the standard ones.

It is essential to note that cloud computing can also incorporate external tools offered by other software providers.