Cloud computing refers to the access of computational resources on demand via a computer network. Those resources include computing power, software, data access, storage services and more.

The main benefit of the cloud is convenient, secure access to all your data and applications anywhere y

ou have an Internet connection. Have you ever used Google Docs? Or stored photos on sites like Flickr or Photobucket? Then you’re already using the cloud. (Amazon.com’s cloud system has been in the news recently, first with a security breach and this week when Lady GaGa fans overloaded the system trying to download her new album for 99 cents.)

Four varieties of clouds exist, each with their own features and purposes.

A public cloud’s infrastructure is made available to the general public or a large industry group and is owned by a cloud services provider.

The infrastructure of a private cloud is operated solely for an organization. Sometimes, the organization manages the cloud directly. Other times, a third-party handles operations, in which case it’s referred to as a hosted private cloud. A private cloud may exist either on-premises or off.

A community cloud’s infrastructure is shared by several organizations and supports a specific community that has shared concerns (e.g., mission, security requirements, policy and compliance considerations). Like private clouds, it may be managed by the organizations or a third-party and may exist on- or off-premises. Examples include Google Gov cloud and clouds for educational institutions.

A hybrid cloud consists of two or more clouds (private, public or community) that remain separate entities but are bound together by a standardized or proprietary technology that enables data and application portability (e.g., cloud bursting for load-balancing between clouds). Hybrid clouds exist for purposes of handling high traffic, load balancing, intensive processing and more.

This is part one in a series about cloud computing. Next time, look for more information on how the cloud might benefit your business.

Contact John Smythe at 425-374-2436, everett@cmitsolutions.com or www.cmitsolutions.com/everett.