The Benefits of Using Cloud Computing

The Benefits of Using Cloud Computing
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Abstract
The advent of cloud computing has taken the IT world by storm. Although the popularity
of Gmail and Yahoo Mail has been the most common face of cloud computing, now more
prominent companies are stepping into the arena, and more complex solutions are being offered.
Cloud computing is the provision of services through the internet where data and software are
stored not on the desktop but third-party servers. Companies can switch services or use more
sophisticated software and platforms without incurring any capital expenditure. This arena has
particular implications for small businesses as they have the most to gain from it. The decrease in
costs helps enterprises and startups to access and use applications that they could not afford
before. It also enables them to share data and communicate easily with remote locations. Cloud
computing is not dependent on any system except the internet, and thus, things can be done faster
and more efficiently. New applications can be launched and implemented without incurring high
costs. Cloud computing systems can provide smaller firms at the same level of software as large
companies at lower prices. Cloud computing systems have better security systems and are better
at managing and processing data. They can accommodate the company’s needs during peak
seasons and reduce operating costs during low seasons. The pay as you go method decreases
wastage of resources and finances and helps in trimming the IT budget. The around the clock
availability of data helps in increasing productivity. Thus, businesses face numerous benefits
from cloud computing.
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Introduction
Cloud computing is merely using the internet to retain data and applications. The users do
not have to purchase and install software and can use applications through any medium that has
internet. Services and storage are provided through the internet. This technology is more efficient
as it centralizes memory and processing. Basic examples of cloud computing include email
services offered by Yahoo and Google. Unlike Microsoft Outlook, which needs to be purchased
and installed on the computer, Gmail just requires an internet connection. Anti-virus software
that automatically updates itself is another example of cloud computing. Thus cloud computing
saves on licensing and installation costs and also the risk of your computer crashing. In cloud
computing, the server and applications are on the cloud and managed by the service provider
(Vasiljeva, Shaikhulina, & Kreslins, 2017).
The user only gets to use the services without any of the management. Although many
large businesses have adopted cloud computing as well, it holds particular implications for small
businesses. Cloud computing provides a new way for small businesses to make use of
technology and software without incurring licensing costs (Vasiljeva et al., 2017). However,
there may be some drawbacks, such as privacy and operational expenses (Subramanian &
Jeyaraj, 2018). Nevertheless, cloud computing is a significant development affecting information
systems and business models across the sectors (Avram, 2014). This report analyzes the benefits
that businesses may realize by opting for cloud computing.
The benefits of using cloud computing
(i) Cost reduction
Companies stand to benefit more as they gain access to high tech applications at a lower
total cost; for example, Google Apps charges $50 per user annually. Due to the advent of cloud
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