For businesses looking to transition from hardware systems over to the cloud, it's important to know the distinction between cloud computing and cloud storage. While the terms can be used interchangeably, the differences around what happens with data differentiate these vital solutions. Cloud computing and cloud storage are almost similar in that they use the internet to access and store data. This ensures you’re purchasing the right service.
What is The Cloud?
Cloud is a remoter server where a business or individual’s data is safely stored. If you use an Apple product, like a smartphone or mac book, you’ve probably been compelled to sign up for an iCloud account. The service lets you back up your files on the company's proprietary server, such as documents, music, and photos. This frees up a lot of space on your PC and creates file backup in case the system fails. It also makes your essential files accessible via any PC with the internet.
Cloud Storage and Cloud Computing: is there any Difference?
Cloud storage
This is a computing process where you can store files remotely on the network of external services. This allows you to complete tasks that would be impossible, such as sharing cloud files.
If you own a company where most of your workers are working virtually or involved in correspondence that requires swift file sharing, accessing and storing valuable documents from any location is a great convenience.
You may also use cloud storage when dealing with large file sizes and higher traffic. Your resident computing system might not be able to meet such enormous demands. Besides, the expense and maintenance of extra in-house equipment and adding an IT on your payroll might prompt you to embrace cloud storage.
Some of the cloud storage examples include:
- Dropbox
- Google Drive
- Icloud
- Photos upload on social media
- Onedrive personal storage
- Data servers
- Virtual desktop hosting
- Web hosting
Cloud computing
Cloud computing involves uploading data into the cloud through a cloud storage procedure. However, cloud computing is different since it allows you to manipulate the data. For instance, you can complete real processes in a 3rd party application rather than on your PC space. Facebook is an excellent example of cloud computing.
The platform allows you to store and also photos. You can upload statuses and indicate your location. However, there are more complex forms of cloud computing. A perfect example involves adding data to your cloud account, where you can do coding on the application.
Cloud computing provides a broad range of remote services, whether it's something people use daily or a more complex process business uses. For instance, you can run simple SaaS (software as a service) applications on cloud computing. That’s where cloud technology recruiting comes in handy.
Like with all services, cloud computing comes with specific requirements. For instance, cloud computing requires high processing power than cloud storage services.
Other examples of cloud computing include:
- Google Docs app
- Photo view app
- IChat
- Social media apps
- Remote data analytics
- Management system
- Remote application
- Website content
- Outlook online
Cloud computing and cloud storage are common terms in the business world. Some of the distinguishing factors between the two include the following:
- Cloud storage requires more storage capacity but lower processing power, while cloud computing needs high processing power.
- Cloud storage is used for personal and professional purposes, while cloud computing is meant for business.
- Cloud computing allows you to work remotely on and manipulate data, while cloud storage is a sharing and storage medium.
These are the differences between cloud computing and cloud storage. While interconnected, their concepts aren’t the same and should never be muddled up.
