Session 17 (Network CC and IofT) Flashcards
what are the three types of networks?
Centralized
Client/Server
Peer-to-Peer
what is a centralized infrastructure
A centralized infrastructure involves sharing
of information systems in one central area or
one central mainframe
Mainframes were originally the only
computers available for business
what is a client/server infrastructure?
A client/server infrastructure has one or more
computers that are servers which provide
services to other computers, called clients
what is a peer-to-peer infrastructure?
A peer-to-peer infrastructure treats all
computers as both client and server
what are examples of communication media?
Examples
– Ethernet
– Wi-Fi
How to choose? – Capacity: volume and speed – Reliability – Cost – Distance – Mobility
Access the service over network, pay rent
to the vendor who manages the software
and/or hardware is ___ ___
cloud computing
discuss software cloud:
– Software Cloud (software as a service: SaaS)
Firm subscribes to a software-replacing service that
is delivered online
discuss hardware cloud (IaaS and PaaS)
– Firm develops its own software, but runs them
over the Internet on someone else’s hardware
Rent only the hardware and networking services
(infrastructure as a service: IaaS)
Rent hardware which comes with OS, database and
other software to support app development
(platform as a service: PaaS)
what are advantages for clients of software as a service?
– lower costs: s/w, h/w, maintenance, and staff expenses
– financial risk mitigation: startup costs are low
– faster deployment/implementation times
– variable costs: vs. large, fixed capital expense
– scalable system: for periods of unexpectedly high
system use
– higher quality and service levels: instantly available
(and frequent) upgrades, vendor scale economies, &
expertise gained from its entire client base
– remote access: accessed through any web
browser/mobile
what are disadvantages of software as a service?
– dependence on a single vendor; concern about the
long-term viability of partner firms
– users may be forced to migrate to new versions:
incurring unforeseen training costs and shifts in
operating procedures
– reliance on network connection
– data asset stored off-site: security and legal concerns
– limited configuration, customization, and system
integration
– user interface often less sophisticated
– ease of adoption may lead to unauthorized IT use
what are advantages for vendors of using software as a service?
– limiting development to a single platform, instead of
having to create versions for different operating
systems
– tighter feedback loop with clients, helping fuel
innovation and responsiveness
– ability to instantly deploy bug fixes and product
enhancements to all users
– lower distribution costs
– accessibility to anyone with an Internet connection.
– greatly reduces software piracy
– Usage-based pricing model akin to a monthly
subscription
– Offer free services that are supported by
advertising
– Promote the sale of upgraded or premium
versions for additional fees
are an example of a ____ vendor’s revenue model
Software as a Service (Saas)
in the ___ cloud, the provider charges for specific resource usage rather than a flat rate
hardware
what is cloudbursting (within the hardware cloud?)
– Describes the use of cloud computing to provide
excess capacity during periods of spiking demand
It is a scalability solution that is usually provided as
an overflow service, kicking in as needed
Data center reaches max capacity seamlessly
shift part of workload to the cloud
– Scalable computing resources can help a firm deal
with spiking impact from Black Swan (unpredicted,
rare, but highly impactful) events
how are clouds affecting the tech industry?
– affecting the competitive dynamics of the
hardware, software, and consulting industries
– alters the margin structure for many in the
computing industry
– accelerate innovation, therefore, changing the
desired skills mix and job outlook for IS workers
– decreases the barriers to entry by lowering the
cost to access powerful systems and software