The Cloud | 3.1 | OCR GCSE Computer Science | J277

10 flashcards

The Cloud

A network of servers accessed on the internet to provide services.

Cloud computing

Where tasks are done online in a different physical location to the user.

What do these tasks include?

- running applications - storing data

What is cloud computing an example of?

Remote service provision

How are files stored on cloud storage providers? (e.g. Google Drive, iCloud)

Remotely on the Internet - they are not stored locally (e.g. on the user's device). They require an internet connection to be accessed.

Advantages of the Cloud

- Files can be accessed from any device with a stable internet connection. - Multiple users can collaborate. - Cloud providers cover security and back-up. - Does not require IT specialists to manage the hardware. - Cloud software can update automatically (e.g. security fixes). - Storage amount is scalable - you can increase or decrease it at your wish.

Disadvantages of the Cloud

- Requires an internet connection to access data and files. - Downloading and uploading files can be slow, depending on bandwidth. - Users depend on the cloud provider - can lose all data if server failure occurs.

Disadvantage - why can Cloud storage be considered 'unsafe'?

Data is stored on third-party servers, making it vulnerable to hackers.

Disadvantage - why is it better to store data locally rather than on the Cloud?

Subscription fees for the cloud can be expensive, adding up over a period of time.

Disadvantage - why is it risky for data being transferred across networks using The Cloud?

Data can be intercepted, creating security risk.