Cloud Computing

CLOUD COMPUTING

Cloud computing has revolutionized the way we store and access data. Many of your

favorite companies use cloud computing; Apple, Netflix and Instagram all use cloud computing

to handle their information technology (IT) needs. Some of these companies also offer cloud

storage to the public. Why has cloud computing become so popular amongst companies and

people?

Cloud computing has many benefits for everyone’s needs. The cost to use cloud

computing is cheaper due to the infrastructure already setup and ready to use, and you get

charged based off your needs. This is very beneficial for smaller start-up companies who can’t

afford to setup and maintain a local server. They can use cloud computing and have the ability

to scale instantly. Another benefit to cloud computing is the portability and ease of access to

your files. You can now access your files from any computer or communications device.

There are risks involved when using cloud computing. Connectivity is a very big issue.

Cloud computing relies heavily on the Internet and cloud vendor availability. If either of these

have outages, you will not be able to access your files. Security is another issue, iCloud was

hacked in 2012 and personal information was leaked for everybody to see. Hackers identified a

vulnerability through peoples iTunes account exploited it.

I use iCloud from Apple, to store and share my pictures and videos with my family. I

also use Adobe Creative Cloud (Adobe CC), which allows me to rent Photoshop and Lightroom.

Adobe CC pushes down frequent updates, always keeping me updated with the latest

enhancements for both programs. I serve in the Marine Corps, and after doing some research; I

found that the Marine Corps will never go to a private or commercial cloud company (Nally,

2015). Marine Corps, Chief Information Officer, Generally Nally believes the Marine Corps can...