Cloud applications (or cloud apps) are becoming more and more popular, most especially among organizations and individuals who share content over the Internet. There are now many available applications in the market that allow users to share files, images, videos, music and links. Other cloud apps make it easy for users to deploy programs and applications that are stored in the cloud.
This popularity of cloud applications leads to a few interesting questions. What is it about cloud apps that made them to the mainstream? Is the cloud architecture different from the previous available infrastructure? How do software applications behave and interconnect inside the cloud environment?
What are cloud apps?
For better understanding, let us define what a cloud application is. It is an application that functions in the cloud and has with it a mixture of desktop and web program characteristics. A desktop application resides completely on a computer, laptop or any mobile device at the user’s location. A web application is located entirely on a remote server and is accessed through the Internet.
This characteristic makes cloud applications under the control of users who can easily access and update the apps anywhere, anytime. This task can be achieved without having to consume storage space on the user’s device.
What makes cloud applications even more distinctive and powerful? They can provide some functionality even without Internet. Users can access cloud apps even in locations where wireless devices are not allowed, or Internet connection is not available, such as on board an aircraft or while traveling to remote areas.
How do cloud apps differ from its predecessors
- Storage works differently in the cloud environment.
The practically limitless storage in cloud computing makes it a flexible option. Users can easily scale up or down their data storage and usage according to their requirements.
- Cloud identities are controllable and secure.
Since almost all elements of the cloud require the users to log in, companies can control the identity of the users as early as the deployment stage. This factor equates to high security and privacy.
- Cloud processing is a different experience.
Exchanging data and information through the cloud brings a different experience because of the uploading and downloading factor required. In addition, allocating compute resources is handled differently in the cloud.
Will end-users feel the difference?
Many software application vendors are already utilizing the cloud, and this trend will continue to thrive. However, many end-users will not feel the difference when using cloud apps. To many consumers, it is only beneficial to know how the new technology works out of curiosity.
Contact Four Cornerstone for help with cloud computing system, not just with moving to the cloud but also in going through the critical task of assessing which applications to run in the said platform. Our Oracle Consulting in Dallas will also look into other key factors, such as configuration, data migration and data monitoring.
