Cloud computing demystified

Friday, April 30th, 2010 | internet | 5 Comments

For some people the concept cloud computing is as nebulous and difficult to grab hold of as a literal cloud.  But the idea is actually very simple.

Cloud computing has nothing to do with clouds in the sky.  In pictures explaining computer networks, a diagrammatic cloud is often used to depict the internet – over time a cloud became a metaphor for the internet.

The cloud represents the internet - you can access it from any part of the world

To grasp cloud computing fully you must first understand how the internet works.  The internet is a worldwide network of computer networks.  Data is stored on servers spread across the globe – any server linked to the network of networks (the internet) can be accessed by anyone who has permission to use it.

The internet can be entered through:

your home computer

your mobile computer

your friend’s computer

a computer at your school

your cell phone (if it is web enabled).

You can store data on the internet in the same way that you can retrieve data.  Such data can be text, pictures or even video clips.  Much of the information storage space is available at no cost to you for personal use.

Cloud computing means that you no longer need to carry your information with you – it is stored in the internet cloud – all you need is an access instrument and a gateway into the internet.

If you are using Facebook, Twitter, Plurk, Google Docs, e-mail and blogs you are already practicing cloud computing.

With this simplistic explanation of cloud computing you can keep your feet firmly on the ground while reaching for the clouds.

Tags: cloud computing, internet

Cloud computing in Africa

Monday, December 22nd, 2008 | Computer Usage, ICT in Africa | 3 Comments

Is cloud computing viable for schools in Africa?

A previous posting explained the concept of cloud computing.  The term refers to the ability to use a very simple computing device – it could be a computer at an internet café, a low specification PC, a cell phone, or similar instrument – to draw required application programmes from the internet, and then store all data back on the internet.

In cloud computing everything, except for the device in your hands, lives in the clouds.

Could this be a solution for schools in Africa?  Simple devices; no complicated networks required; use of free programmes (even educational software); and free data storage – a real bargain for cash-strapped Africa!   In addition, you can compute whatever you like, whenever you like and wherever you are.  This sounds like heaven beyond the clouds.

But before you get excited, just pause for a moment and consider realities:

• Internet connectivity is still not available in large parts of the continent.
• Even cheap computing devices would be outside of the grasp of many.
• Cloud computing is a step up from conventional computing in the paradigm hierarchy – most people on the continent can not even perform the most basic functions.  It will require considerable training efforts to get them to the point where they can come to grips with the concept of cloud computing.

These comments should not be seen as being negative – they are intended as a reality check for those who may be misguided into thinking that the lack of resources is the foremost technology problem on the continent.  Education and training are the greatest challenges.

By all means, reach for the clouds, but keep your feet firmly on the ground.

Tags: cloud computing, ICT in Africa, internet, trends