Cloud Computing Flashcards
What is Cloud computing?
Cloud computing allows users to save their files to ‘the cloud’ (internet) rather than their own computer so they can access their files anywhere, even on the move.
How does cloud computing work?
cloud computing means using computer services on another organisation’s computers, which are known as hosts.
The services are provided by organisations known as hosting companies.
Some well-known hosting companies for cloud computing include Amazon®,Microsoft ®, Google™ and RackSpace.
Cloud users can access software, data and storage on the host computers, which will be at a remote location.
Users do this through a web browser or mobile app, without ever directly accessing the servers that the information is stored on.
What are the advantages of cloud storage?
Convenience. You can access your data anywhere you can connect to the Internet.
Security. Most companies use industrial level security software and practices which make it harder for hackers to get at your data. That’s harder, but not impossible.
Backups. You have a backup of your data in case your local computer crashes.
Collaboration. With your permission, others can access, view, and modify your documents.
Environmentally friendly. It takes fewer resources to cloud compute, thus saving energy. Some businesses take it a step further and incorporate cloud computing into their telecommuting strategies.
What are the disadvantages of cloud storage?
Security breaches. . There’s also a good chance that more than just your information may be affected—we’re talking possibly millions of other users.
Outages. Have you ever been unable to access your email due to your provider being down? Now, imagine if you needed a document for an important business meeting or presentation and your storage provider’s site was down. Believe me it happens, and it happens at the most inconvenient times.
Storage limits. While your local hard drive may be able to hold 500GB or more of data, unfortunately a remote server may only allow you to freely store about 5GB. If you want more room, you’ll have to pay. Still, even with a paid account, it can’t begin to touch the amount of room you have locally. There also may be a limit on the size of the data that can be stored.
Slow speeds. Uploading and downloading of large documents may take a long time.
What is Ubiquitous computing systems?
Ubiquitous means ‘existing everywhere’.
Processors can be embedded in any device, including clothing, appliances, vehicles, buildings and people, to connect them to the internet so that the data generated by the processors will be readily available
What is Radio frequency identification (RFID)?
Stands for “Radio-Frequency Identification.”
RFID is a system used to track objects, people, or animals using tags that respond to radio waves.
RFID tags are integrated circuitsthat include a small antenna.
An example of a use of RFID is the cat flaps that only open for the animal that has the correct chip in its collar
Give examples of Applications of ubiquitous computing
Currently, there are computing systems in place which monitor the shelf and warehouse stock.
This technology is used by many industries (supermarkets, book and DVD suppliers, car part manufacturers, etc).
When the stock reaches a certain minimum level, an order is automatically placed with the appropriate supplier electronically.
a car that can inform the owner when it needs servicing, book itself into the garage and place orders for any parts needed
what is a server?
Servers - A computer hardware system which acts as a host for other computers on the same network.
