Overview of Cloud Computing

Although many conversations center around cloud computing, few of the participants can accurately describe basic questions, such as what is cloud computing and what are the benefits? Most people agree that cloud computing will become a vital part of how people do business. But the question is, how? In this three-part series, we will attempt to clear up common misconceptions about what cloud computing is, what it can do, and what it may eventually encompass.

Part One: What Is It?

In its simplest terms, cloud computing can be described as a way to house data and applications in remote central servers that can be accessed and updated by multiple users simultaneously. Essentially, a standard desktop or laptop computer becomes a portal where users tap into programs or information through the internet. However, the way that users access the information or applications is not quite as simple as logging into a website. The platforms that manage or enable access, as well as the actual application themselves, and the infrastructure required to coordinate all of these elements, form the basic elements of cloud computing.

Google's App Engine is an example of a platform, where users may access the apps through the platform. The apps themselves provide functions or services that are based on data collected from a variety of different sources. Some applications are more specific to industry, such as a sales software suite that tracks the individual calls and progress of a team of roaming representatives who can input their information from a mobile device into a centralized application that displays all information in real time. The fee systems for these services constitute the infrastructure.

Because it is still relatively new, some development companies specialize in one area, while other companies have attempted to build a more cohesive model that offers all three principal components. Most of the money currently made by cloud computing is generated by who pays for the storage/operation fees. Several applications require users to pay for a server which runs all of their software and applications, while others charge users a licensing or subscription fee to use their applications. These licensing fees cover the cost of running the server. Companies benefit from this arrangement principally because off-site dedicated servers are cheaper to maintain and house than in-house versions. Additionally, the hazard of software crashes and subsequent data loss is eliminated by virtue of the enormous operating power of the remote central servers.

With this broad overview in mind, in tomorrow's article we will explore the most common implementations of cloud computing.

SaaS, IaaS, and PaaS

To continue our cloud computing series, we discuss the three main areas in the cloud. Cloud computing has three primary branches: SaaS, IaaS, and PaaS. Each branch has different implementations and benefits.

Software As A Service

Software as a Service, or SaaS, generally takes the form of web-based software applications. Because SaaS can be paid for in the form of a regular monthly licensing or subscription fee, small businesses do not need to invest a huge amount of money for the equivalent of a technological 'down payment.' They can save tremendous amounts of money by not buying hardware to run and store specialized applications that would also require costly in-house IT personnel. This is especially convenient for start-ups or other fledging enterprises which need to maximize their earnings potential, and reduce overhead costs. By essentially purchasing all of these features through SaaS, businesses and government departments which experienced severe budget cuts are able to retain their productivity and accomplish business processes while simultaneously cutting costs.

Sales based businesses, such as brick and mortal retail outlets or advertising agencies, can save money by leasing SaaS on a monthly basis to complete their basic transactions.

Infrastructure As A Service

Infrastructure as a Service, or IaaS, supplies the building blocks of software and application development: programming languages, flexible storage space, and variable computing power. IaaS is excellent for use in development projects where different types of computing power will be needed at different stages of the project, such as the development of a major industry-specific or proprietary software project. Because IaaS essentially leases the tools to assemble the project, when the project is completed, the company can discontinue the service without having to lay off workers or sell equipment.

IaaS is used primarily by mid-scale to large companies that either develop software as a business, or that have a temporary project that directly impacts their business model. Architectural firms, for example, may use IaaS to develop software that allows them to quickly translate 3D models into digital plans. Once the software is developed, they no longer require IaaS.

Platform As A Service

Platform as a Service, or PaaS, provides a ready-made environment for the development of applications. Unlike IaaS, however, PaaS is accessible by a community of developers, as opposed to an individual business entity, who want to collectively build applications without necessarily owning the output or consequences of those applications. PaaS is a breeding ground for new ideas that, if successful, can bolster the career of an individual developer, but do not necessarily tie him or her to a particular project or entity. Many PaaS providers have licensing agreements that clearly delineate the rights of the individual developer and the how the PaaS may use that developer's contributions. Freelance developers can quickly build an easily accessible portfolio of work, while PaaS providers can cheaply develop innovative applications for future sale.

10 Simple Tricks to Speed Up Your Computer

Using these 10 simple tricks, you can bring your sluggish PC back to its former peppy self. These tips are quick and easy to do, most using the help of free software.

Trick 1 - Always run an active virus scanner. 

Whether you choose a free option or a paid subscription, active monitoring prevents many problems before they occur. If something does sneak through, you are already one-step closer to resolving the problem.

Trick 2 - Only install software that you trust and use regularly. 

Many times a slow of a PC is the result of a too many programs running in the background. This is especially true of older PCs, as they tend to collect more and more programs and data as time goes on.

Trick 3 - Regular registry cleaning. 

When you uninstall a program, there are often traces left in the Windows Registry. The Windows Registry is like a map, telling your computer where things are and how to use them. As the registry grows in size, so does the time it takes the computer to use it. Manual registry cleaning is not recommended, however, tools such as PC Tune Up can help safely keep your registry free of errors.

Trick 4 - Reboot your PC regularly. 

With all the installs, uninstalls, updates and changes constantly occurring on your PC, it never hurts to give it a quick reboot. This ensures memory is available and any important system or application updates are applied.

Trick 5 - Cut down on graphical 'flair'. 

Simply setting your Windows theme to classic or basic modes can free up a surprising amount of resources to give that extra zip back to your PC.

Trick 6 - Desktop Widgets. 

These can add up to substantial memory and processor usage. Determine if the convenience of having them constantly on display is worth the loss of performance and remove unnecessary tools.

Trick 7 - Install Google Chrome. 

If you have checked out this latest contender in the Internet Browser wars, take the few minutes to do so. While it may take a minute to figure out the subtle changes from your current browser, it is one the fastest and most responsive browsers available.

Trick 8 - Physically clean your PCs air intakes and exhausts. 

When your computer gets too warm, it has to decrease performance to prevent damage. Avoid vacuums and liquids and they can create electrical issues. A small paintbrush will do the trick just fine.

Trick 9 - Keep your important programs up-to-date. 

Simply find, and enable, the auto-update feature of your favorite programs. These updates are often important fixes or performance boosts.

Trick 10 - Update your graphics card drivers. 

These days Intel, ATI or nVidia make most graphics cards. All three companies have easy-to-use websites that will detect your video card and update your drivers.

Follow these 10 simple tricks, and your computer will always be in its best shape. Some of the extra advices on how to fix windows problems fast, can be found here.

I'm an expert in computer repair and its overall performance. Read more here.