Cloud Computing

To use cloud computing means to use multiple server computers by using a digital network. Cloud computing is made up of six different layers. These layers consist of the provider, the client, the application, the platform, the infrastructure, and the server. These six layers all play a crucial role in the success of cloud computing. The cloud provider is the company that is responsible for the cloud service. The cloud client is made up of the computer hardware or software that relies on the services of cloud computing. The cloud application services, also known as Software as a Service, deliver the software as a service over the Internet. This eliminates the need to install or run the application on the customer’s own computers. The cloud platform, also known as Platform as a Service, delivers a computing platform as a service. The cloud infrastructure, also known as Infrastructure as a Service, delivers computer infrastructure as a service. The server is made up of computer hardware and software products that are specifically designed for the delivery of cloud services (1).
The layer of cloud computing that interests me the most is the cloud application services. One of the many key characteristics about cloud application services is has activities that are managed from central locations. Other services tend to have locations at customers sites. The purpose of this is to allow customers to access their applications on the Internet. Cloud application services include an application delivery that is usually closer to a “one-to-many model” than a “one-to-one” model. Software as a Service also has a centralized feature-updating perk. This prevents the need for downloadable patches and upgrades. Software as a Service also has a network-based access. This is different than your custom software because it was very beneficial for management (1). For cloud application services to work, there are a few things that they must have and must happen for everything to go smoothly with the services. True multi-tenancy is very important because it gets rid of many problems that traditional software could create. It also makes sure that the customer and the service are on the same version of software. A world-class data center and security system are also vital to the success of the cloud application services. This allows the customers to do their work on their own and not have to worry about any security issues (2). I found the nature of the cloud application services very interesting.

1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cloud_computing
2. http://www.cloudave.com/11803/10-critical-requirements-for-cloud-applications/