Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Windows Azure : A Dynamic Cloud Computing Platform

Windows Azure : A Dynamic Cloud Computing Platform


By James M Peterson


Windows Azure provides the necessary infrastructure for companies heading for the cloud. Cloud computing has gradually been making a name for itself in the business arena, providing companies with a cost-efficient solution to doing business in an Internet-dependent market.

Azure is a versatile cloud computing platform, that enables you to optimize operations and address simple and complex business challenges. It provides you with IT services on demand by allowing you to host data storage and applications on the Internet, enabling you to easily access what you need when you need it at a reasonable price.

[caption id="attachment_772" align="aligncenter" width="400"]Windows Azure: A Dynamic Cloud Computing Platform Windows Azure: A Dynamic Cloud Computing Platform[/caption]

Because this platform eliminates the need to purchase the usual amount of hardware, you are able to maximize your current IT infrastructure. This also allows you to save significantly on costs for hardware, training and maintenance. And with Azure, you only pay for the services you need, allowing you to maximize IT efficiency.

Having vital services hosted on the cloud allows you to scale your resources according to your company's needs. Such scalability also means that sudden changes in your business, such as seasonal spikes and a sudden increase in your workload, can be readily accommodated.

With Windows Azure, you can improve productivity, as it guarantees 99.95 percent uptime Service Level Agreement (SLA) and possesses a built-in disaster recovery capability. In addition, you can deploy an application in less than a day, as opposed to the traditional weeks or even months.

These are only some of the advantages that come with implementing the Azure platform. A business technology services provider can help you fully realize the rewarding opportunity it offers.

Resource Box:

RDA Corporation delivers comprehensive business solutions using the latest Microsoft technologies such as Windows Azure. Its business technology services have been trusted by companies across diverse industries since 1988. Log on to RDACorp.com or call 1-888-441-1278 for more details.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_M_Peterson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Windows-Azure:-A-Dynamic-Cloud-Computing-Platform&id=5965002

Cloud Computing Security

Cloud Computing Security


By Danny Blacharski


One of the greatest game-changing innovations of this decade is cloud computing. The shift away from pure on-premises applications and data storage is already well underway, with consumers, small and midsize businesses, and even large enterprises putting applications and data into the cloud. The ever-present question however, is whether it is safe to do so. Cloud computing security is by far the biggest concern among those considering the technology. And if you're an IT manager, it's good to be paranoid. Losses from cybercrime and attack can be enormous, and the 2008 CSI Computer Crime and Security Survey show an overall average annual loss of just under $300,000.

[caption id="attachment_768" align="aligncenter" width="610"]Cloud Computing Security Cloud Computing Security[/caption]

It may seem like a leap of faith to put your valuable data and applications in the cloud, and to trust cloud computing security to a third party. Yet faith is not a part of the equation, nor should it be. Every enterprise needs to know that its data and applications are secure, and the question of cloud computing security must be addressed.

In fact, the cloud does have several security advantages. According to NIST, these cloud computing security advantages include:

o Shifting public data to a external cloud reduces the exposure of the internal sensitive data
o Cloud homogeneity makes security auditing/testing simpler
o Clouds enable automated security management
o Redundancy / Disaster Recovery

All four points are well taken. Cloud providers naturally tend to include rigorous cloud computing security as part of their business models, often more than an individual user would do. In this respect, it's not just a matter of cloud computing providers deploying better security, the point is, rather, that they deploy the precautions that individual companies should, but often don't.

A common security model


Most application providers impose some level of security with their applications, although when cloud application providers implement their own proprietary approaches to cloud computing security, concerns arise over international privacy laws, exposure of data to foreign entities, stovepipe approaches to authentication and role-based access, and leaks in multi-tenant architectures. These security concerns have slowed the adoption of cloud computing technology, although it need not pose a problem.

The very nature of a cloud platform is that it imposes an instance of common software elements that can be used by developers to "bolt on" to their applications without having to write them from scratch. This advantage is especially useful in the area of security. The cloud "platform as a service" brings an elegant solution to the security problem by implementing a standard security model to manage user authentication and authorization, role-based access, secure storage, multi-tenancy, and privacy policies. Consequently, any SaaS application that runs on the common platform would immediately benefit from the platform's standardized and robust security model.

Superior physical security through cloud computing provider


Lack of physical security is the cause of an enormous amount of loss, and insider attacks account for a surprisingly large percentage of loss. And while the specter of black hats hacking into your network from a third world country is very much real, very often, the "black hat" is in reality a trusted employee. It's the guy from the Accounting department who you have lunch with. It's the lady who brings you coffee in the morning and always remembers that you like two sugars. It's the recent college grad with so much potential, who did such a great job on that last report.

Of course, insiders can attack your network and data regardless of where it is located, given enough incentive and information, but physical proximity of the actual hardware and data makes it much easier to gain access, and cloud data centers tend to have better internal physical security protocols, including locked rooms, regulated access, and other protections against physical theft and tampering.

Conclusion: Superior security through the cloud


Besides physical security, technical security is of the utmost importance. Hosting your own servers and applications requires extra measures. A larger organization may need to deploy dedicated IT staff to security only. Cloud computing, on the other hand, builds cloud computing security directly into the cloud platform. While the company still must maintain in-house security in any case, the provider ensures that the applications and data are safe from attack.

We tend to think that retaining control over everything is inherently more secure, when this is not the case. Smaller companies especially may lack the skilled security staff in-house, and even larger firms often just don't have the resources to dedicate to implementing rigorous security on an ongoing basis. A cloud computing provider on the other hand, which offers a detailed service level agreement and retains skilled security staff in-house, will often provide superior security when compared with the in-house alternative.

For more information about cloud computing, please visit http://www.cloudipedia.com for a free copy of "Cloud Computing Made Easy." Cloudipedia is a property of Virtual Global, a provider of cloud-enabled enterprise IT solutions and the TeamHost� cloud computing platform for building SaaS applications without programming.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Danny_Blacharski
http://EzineArticles.com/?Cloud-Computing-Security&id=3638525

Saturday, August 11, 2012

The Elements of Public Cloud Computing Security

The Elements of Public Cloud Computing Security


Author:Martin


Public cloud computing being the latest buzzword today, it is crucial to understand the factors that are essential for its smooth functioning. It primarily requires a security that reconciles scalability and multi-tenancy with the need for trust. Gradually, as organizations shift their computing platforms in addition their information, identities and infrastructure to the cloud, it is essential to let go of the control. However, prior to doing that it is crucial to verify the cloud events and procedures. The crucial building blocks of verification and reliable relationships comprise data safety, control, compliance and event management.

[caption id="attachment_759" align="aligncenter" width="300"]The Elements of Public Cloud Computing Security The Elements of Public Cloud Computing Security[/caption]

Key Elements of Public Cloud Security


Third party authentication services, ongoing identity management and federated identity are fast becoming the main components of cloud security. Identity security helps in conserving the confidentiality and integrity of applications and data, while making it readily accessible to the apt users. Hence the assistance for such identity management capabilities for infrastructure as well as other components is going to be a chief requirement for cloud computing. Furthermore, identity too needs to be managed in a way that it fosters trust.

In order to make this happen a strong authentication is required where cloud computing needs to shift beyond weak password and username authentication. This means resorting to those technologies that have been already standardized in the IT enterprises, for instance strong authentication, federation across and even within the enterprises, a risk based authentication that evaluates the behavior history. Present context and other factors to evaluate the risk level of a user request. Furthermore, additional layers of authentication too is needed to cater to the security service level agreements and making use of risk based authentication model that is completely transparent to users. This will further bring down the requirement for broader federation of access controls.

This apart, there is also need for information security solutions. In a conventional data center, the controls on physical access, access to software and hardware and identity controls are all merged to secure data. In a cloud platform, the protective shield that protects infrastructure is diffused. In order to compensate the security needs to be information centric. The data require its own security that moves it securing it across all networks. It is here that companies might think of considering network penetration testing solutions.

However, eminent cloud computing service providers will offer you a better way to expand your business and go public on cloud systems. These service providers have their own internet data centers that caters to all your IT needs and other infrastructure needs such collocation, dedicated and shared hosting services. Along with this they look into firewall and backup solutions enabling you to have a competitive edge over others.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/software-articles/the-elements-of-public-cloud-computing-security-6110146.html

About the Author

Related linkscollocation services indiaDisaster Recovery as a Service

Friday, August 10, 2012

Purpose of cloud computing on web hosting

Purpose of cloud computing on web hosting


Author:mel abad


Cloud Computing is the act of releasing computing and storage capacity to a group of beneficiaries. It was name cloud because of the cloud shape look it showed on charts and diagrams it represented as well as the multifaceted structure it brings. Computation through cloud computing relies on the authenticity and reliability of any data a user may encode.

[caption id="attachment_751" align="aligncenter" width="600"]Purpose of cloud computing on web hosting Purpose of cloud computing on web hosting[/caption]

What are the different types of cloud computing?



  • Service Infrastructure: This type of cloud computing refers to the leasing of software database and software applications by its users leaving this type of cloud computing to provide for all the other installations needed in which the software will perform and run its data base.

  • Service Platform: This is the use of web browser, a mobile application or a simple desktop to enter a certain cloud application while keeping user's data in a distant server location. Those who support cloud computing have given their praises on its ability to deliver faster retrieval of applications that requires minimal maintenance but with excellent manageability.


Cloud computing and web hosting:


Cloud computing is basically a type of webhosting that can immensely increase the traffic on several of your sites gaining you concept of unlimited and uncontrollable flow.  Using cloud hosting will enable you to use and create several websites with endless number of email accounts and database. It may sound like a very interesting prospect especially if you're on the line of e commerce however there are things you need to consider before getting cloud.

Security must be your first concern when it comes to cloud web hosting. The administration of this type of hosting has full access to the entire database in there and there's no telling whether your files are safe or not. If you're working on confidential files in your company, you're bound to take a good look at their security proposals as this can cause the money you invested on your business.

Your data server must be very compliant and location should be near the geographical location of your potential customers. This will ensure that the speed and dependability of their website is fully served and maintained.

Cloud computing doesn't have backups. One thing a customer must take into consideration as this may be very detrimental in the existence of one's website. If your webhost doesn't have the capacity to create backups and depend only on the time table it gets fixed, millions of investment can go to waste in a period of 1 day that repairs get delayed.

Always ask questions about anything that you can't totally understand. Since cloud computing doesn't have any backups, you must inquire on what they propose to do in the event that you experience lose of data and other important files.

The good thing about cloud computing though is the user's ability to access systems using the internet alone. No need to download any software that will match the compatibility of these systems. In fact, you can absolutely access them even on smart phones.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/web-hosting-articles/purpose-of-cloud-computing-on-web-hosting-6112456.html

About the Author

Mel Abad is freelance writer who's expertise include DIY, health and general information. For more in formation about her work please check on http://graypencil.wordpress.com

Scalability in Cloud Computing

Scalability in Cloud Computing


Author:The Customize Windows


Scalability is a feature of Cloud Computing, But what is this terminology Scalability actually means ? We wrote in the previous detailed article on Cloud Computing that Cloud Computing's one of the feature is 'Scalability by decoupling the use of swings and infrastructure limitations'. This is an explanatory article in details on Scalability in Cloud Computing.

[caption id="attachment_753" align="aligncenter" width="480"]Scalability in Cloud Computing Scalability in Cloud Computing[/caption]

What Scalability actually means ?


In the context of software scalability means that a system of hardware and software, increases its performance with the addition of resources or other nodes / computers in a defined area in a proportional or linear pattern. Resources can be, for example, CPU, RAM, hard drives, network bandwidth etc. Scalability of a system measured with scaling factor or SpeedUp.

One can increase the performance of a system in two different ways:


By scaling up also known as vertical scaling
By scaling out also known as horizontal scaling

Example of scaling up would be the increasing of storage space, adding a CPU or installing a more powerful graphics card. Scaling out means increasing the performance of the system by adding additional computers / nodes.  This is the important point of Scalability in Cloud Computing.

Spatial Scalability in Cloud Computing


Spatial scalability has a system or application when the memory requirement in an increasing number of elements to be managed not in at an unacceptably high levels. Temporal spatial scalability comprises by increasing the number of objects which a system will not significantly affect its performance.  Structural scalability is distinguished from others,  its not an implementation, increasing the number of objects within a defined area even hindered significantly.

Scalability in Cloud Computing


The scaling factor or SpeedUp describes the actual performance gain of an additional resource unit. For example, a second CPU to dedicate its 90extra performance. The term Super-linear scalability is used when the scaling factor adds greater resources.

Cloud Computing system now scales as been proven in practice, using layered model for its implementation, because with this approach to Scalability, the individual layers and each layer logically gets separated from each other can be scaled themselves.

Scalability is used in Cloud Computing for Scaling for database access, horizontal and vertical fragmentation, or to reduce DNS lookups and number of objects and there by increasing the speed. Scalability for these reasons can not be isolated from Cloud Computing and that is the reason why Scalability is a feature of Cloud Computing.

To know more, please visit us at: http://thecustomizewindows.com/

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/gadgets-and-gizmos-articles/scalability-in-cloud-computing-6105505.html

About the Author

The Customize Windows is a Blog for Windows 7,Windows 8,Cloud Computing,Virtualization,Wordpress,Google,Apple Mac,Money,SEO Tips,Computer

Monday, August 6, 2012

Common Errors to Be Avoided For Better Cloud Computing

Common Errors to Be Avoided For Better Cloud Computing


Author:corelynx


Incorporating cloud based services in IT scenario involves many tough decisions to be taken. However an incorrect decision can largely hamper the success of your business and thus make your future in cloud quite bleak. You must avoid those errors by any chance, in case you want to develop your company\'s cloud computing scenario.

[caption id="attachment_742" align="aligncenter" width="522"]Common Errors to Be Avoided For Better Cloud Computing Common Errors to Be Avoided For Better Cloud Computing[/caption]

Error 1: Inefficient cloud provider

Many enterprises face huge difficulty in finding out the right cloud based service provider. Whether you want a provider for hosting virtual machines in cloud environment or for any other reason, you must always look for the suitable provider only. In case you pass on the responsibility of all the cloud based services to an incompetent provider you will be in great trouble. So it is important that you should seek out all options and do research on all the existing cloud vendors. Is open source cloud application best for your company? Does your chosen provider offer the support that you want? While selecting a provider you must be free from all kind of headaches regarding your cloud project in the coming years.

Error 2: Wrong IT workloads

In addition to choosing an appropriate cloud provider, IT professionals of your company must determine appropriate IT workloads to move on to the cloud. At times it happens that the workload that they want to make cloud enabled is not ready to shift off-premises. It is seen that administrators out of sheer enthusiasm may make the error of shifting a workload to the cloud in order to perk up all the administrative issues, even at the cost of sacrificing user efficiency. Any sort of impact to the end user experience including low performance etc often is considered as business downturn. So the accurate IT workloads for cloud are those that are beneficial for administration and also for end user experience. They bring improved ROI as well.

Error 3: Not estimating the needs of your network properly

Removing restrictions on processor as well as memory resources is a huge proposition of shifting workloads into the cloud. Although cloud increases memory as well as process resources to a huge level it does it at the cost of networking. Transferring workloads off-premise create huge burden on the network that separates the workloads from your on-premise data center. So if you plan to move to cloud you have to be careful about the resource of your network. If it is insufficient the cloud based apps will largely face problem due to poor performance.

Error 4: Neglecting the client.

Wrongly focusing on the relationship between IT service and its client is a biggest error that a company often makes while building cloud presence. A smart organization often builds up their customer delivery mechanism on the basis of the requirements of the end user and those decisions become even more significant when the services shift to a cloud. However it is important that the delivery mechanism needs some rethinking for services that shift into a cloud. Applications of local data center might function perfectly with a local client installation but they often fail to work in cloud scenario.

Find more information about cloud computing just by clicking http://www.corelynx.com.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/programming-articles/common-errors-to-be-avoided-for-better-cloud-computing-6040111.html

About the Author

At Corelynx, we are expert in providing exclusive Cloud based services. We also offer CRM Customization services at nominal rates.

Influences of advance Technology on Cloud Computing

Influences of advance Technology on Cloud Computing


Author:Minesh Rai


We know that this is the age of modern technology and with the progression in the field of technology there are numerous effects in the field of cloud computingand it must change with it. Cloud computing is basically delivery of computing and storage capacity as a service to a large community including different businesses, organization and end-customers.

[caption id="attachment_735" align="aligncenter" width="400"]Influences of advance Technology on Cloud Computing Influences of advance Technology on Cloud Computing[/caption]

Here we are going to give you information that how advances in technology influence the development and deployment of cloud computing.

Commoditization

As we all know that cloud computing has become very famous and widely used and this is the reason competition in the company is also going to increase day by day. This has led the companies toward commoditization and reduction in the cost and an increase in adopting of standards.

Open source software

There is a place for open source software in cloud computing in numerous forms. A decrease in proprietary system has led to software that is easily distributable and editable. The people and organizations in favor of using open-source software can get a lot of benefits.

  • Make it possible the Use of open file formats

  • Ease of adoptability and less barriers for new users

  • Avoidance of proprietary lock-in

  • Modification and redistribution of software

  • Open and accessible source code

  • Development of new application is easy


Virtualization

Virtualization of server is no longer seen as a simple method of cutting cost. It is now used to provide you greater facility of cost reduction. You can easily minimize the cost by implementing this. It allows the cloud computing to grow fast. It can give a choice of less cost for provider and freedom of choice to the customers. It gives many advantages such as utility pricing, fault avoidance, support of alternative resources. It gives you efficiency in the reduction of cost.

Universal connectivity

Universal connectivity is very important aspect of cloud computing without universal connectivity cloud computing cannot grow faster. Fast broad bands available to all it allows cloud computing to provide services to different businesses, organization and customers.

Some characteristics of cloud computing:

  • Reliability: reliability is improved if multiple redundant sites are used.

  • Cost: cost is claimed to be reduced in public cloud delivery model.

  • Device and location independence: enables users to access system using a web browser not taking in view location.

  • Performance: the performance can be surely improved it can be easily monitored.

  • Security: network security is very major issue in today\'s life. It could be improved due to centralization of data.

  • Maintenance: the maintenance of cloud computing is easy because there is no need to install each application on separate computer system.


Cloud computing is becoming more and more popular with the passage of time. More business is coming to know the advantage of cloud computing so they are going to use its services.

Source : Mirolta

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/gadgets-and-gizmos-articles/influences-of-advance-technology-on-cloud-computing-6085895.html

About the Author

Minesh Rai is the Founder and CEO of Mirolta.com. He writes articles regarding Mobiles, Tech, Gadgets, Games, Web Applications, Social Media and much more.

How does a cloud computing company work?

How does a cloud computing company work?


Author:John


Businesses can have thousands of files and several programs that all need to be stored for daily operations. These can take up terabytes of space on internal servers which cost money to install, maintain, and operate. Cloud storage solutions give businesses a way to store their information with server companies that already have the hardware. A cloud provider is a company that stores information on servers that are connected to the Internet and can be accessed by the clients whenever they need their work.

[caption id="attachment_728" align="aligncenter" width="380"]How does a cloud computing company work? How does a cloud computing company work?[/caption]

GNAX uses a colocation data center to store all files and secure backups. Colocation backups provide more security because files are stored in two different locations. One of the server facilities is located in Atlanta and Dallas. This means that if one site suffers from a power failure or a drive malfunctions, data is still available since it is stored at the other location as well. The data backup solution offers businesses a secure and safe way to store and access all of their information. Backups can be handled automatically and scheduled so that they do not interfere with daily activities.

Data center providers are what make cloud computing possible. Cloud storage solutions from companies like GNAX store programs and files on secure servers and commit resources and access to the company. These services are provided with a monthly rate and make it so that people can access their files from anywhere that they have an Internet connection. Workers can bring their data home by simply logging in and accessing their work files. GNAX also uses automated resource management to ensure fast connections. More information is available at gnax.net.

With over 10 years as an industry leader in the southeast, Global Net Access (GNAX) operates two world-class data centers, AtlantaNAP and DallasNAP, offering mission-critical data center colocation and cloud services. GNAX provides superior technology solutions to a variety of organizations and industries worldwide.
Privately held with headquarters in Atlanta, GA, GNAX was founded in 1999 and has retained net income profitability since 2003. We are diligent in our financial management to ensure optimal operational support and disciplined growth.
Our plan is to grow continuously by providing industry-leading colocation, cloud services and applications with superior technical support and customer service in a secure, highly available, mission-critical data center environment.
100customer satisfaction is our goal, which we achieve by providing 100focus on the customer and providing customized solutions that will meet immediate, as well as future needs.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/databases-articles/how-does-a-cloud-computing-company-work-6086873.html

About the Author

George Robbie wants to help you, on different issues about Cloud storage solutions, data backup solution, Data center providers, colocation data center and cloud provider at www.gnax.net

How Cloud Computing Makes eCommerce Easier

How Cloud Computing Makes eCommerce Easier


Author:Alfred Oliver


In the past, if a business owner wanted to use eCommerce software, they typically had to download a package and install it to their hosting server. This process was often frustrating, and many times, it required the help of a professional. In addition, business owners who chose this route then had to monitor, maintain and upgrade their software on a regular basis, making the entire process more time consuming and complicated.

Thankfully, business owners today can turn to cloud computing to help them save time and money on their eCommerce software. A cloud is essentially a network of interconnected computers, servers, components and services, and when combined, these items offer business owners expanded capabilities to offer customers a better shopping and browsing experience on their sites.

[caption id="attachment_721" align="aligncenter" width="400"]How Cloud Computing Makes eCommerce Easier How Cloud Computing Makes eCommerce Easier[/caption]

A cloud can help a business owner who is looking for eCommerce solutions by offering software as a service, or SaaS. SaaS eCommerce solutions allow business owners to take advantage of pre-built infrastructure and commerce services, meaning no more having to install and maintain eCommerce software. Software as a service is also a great option for business owners who don't want to deal with the hassle of upgrading components, as SaaS providers handle all upgrades on their servers.

A typical scenario involving cloud computing and eCommerce solutions is found when a business owner wants to be able to accept credit card payments on their business website. Previously, this task would mean having to hire a developer to build a customized shopping cart and checkout system. Today, through the use of cloud computing and SaaS, business owners can partner with a cloud computing provider who has already built a payment system that accepts credit cards. From there, the business owner can link to the service provider's cart and checkout system, and the service provider takes care of all of the rest.

Another great advantage of using SaaS and cloud computing is that such services often work across a variety of platforms, and this is especially important due to the rise of mobile technology. No matter what type of browser, operating system or device a customer is using, cloud computing can allow anyone to make purchases in the same manner.

If you're a business owner who is frustrated with your current eCommerce software, you may want to consult with an eCommerce SaaS provider. These providers can be found by searching on the web, or by looking in your local phone book for IT services providers.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ecommerce-articles/how-cloud-computing-makes-ecommerce-easier-6105014.html

About the Author

For more information about eCommerce Software, Please visit : shopify.com

Cloud Computing Companies and their Features

Cloud Computing Companies and their Features


Author: Alrick Clark


Cloud computing companies typically have different features and specific advantages they each provide. What they all have in common however, is the ability to share resources such as applications, virtual platforms and software all while utilizing the latest up to date technology. Cloud computing services also offer several different online storage solutions and contain various advantages for online businesses as well as for personal use. To make sure you are obtaining the best cloud computing security software for your specific needs, a bit of research should be done beforehand  in order to make sure you are getting the product that best suits you and your company's needs.

[caption id="attachment_715" align="aligncenter" width="368"]Cloud Computing Companies and their Features Cloud Computing Companies and their Features[/caption]

Typically, cloud computing companies will each have their own individual pricing list, features, security and support options, among other features. For business owners and those looking to run their websites at lower costs with the addition of more resources, cloud computing services are ideal. Choosing the company that best suits your needs can be overwhelming but there are a few points that should be examined before making any sort of decision on a cloud computing security software package.

If you are in the market for a low cost, efficient cloud computing security package, make sure to obtain one that can suit a small business or personal use. This includes features such as an easy to use interface, as well as easy to share options. You will also want to take into the account the cloud computing companies' specific security features. Multi level security features are usually most beneficial in that they provide the highest level of security for your network. There are also some cloud computing services that must remain running in the background in order to stay working which can result in performance delay and trouble. This is an additional point that should be taken into consideration, especially with computers that contain limited memory.

It is also important to note a user interfaces ease and the ability for a user to quickly and efficiently maneuver throughout. Cloud computing services with user friendly interfaces are usually the most beneficial. Aside from the different types of features cloud computing companies typically offer, it is also important to take into account your individual businesses needs and the specific requirements that must be met. This can include things such as prices, sharing facility capabilities, storage resources, updating and upgrading options, and much more.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/information-technology-articles/cloud-computing-companies-and-their-features-6103997.html

About the Author

Contact Earthling Security at http://www.earthlingsecurity.com/ for professional information technology and data security services to businesses and government sectors. Certified professionals can assist with Cloud computing companies services and much more.

Sunday, August 5, 2012

Harness The Power Of On Demand Cloud Computing To Give Your App The Sizzle To Sell

Harness The Power Of On Demand Cloud Computing To Give Your App The Sizzle To Sell



By Robert J O'Haver


It really doesn't matter what you do, your business most likely falls into one of three distinct categories in today's cloud-based market: You either have a cloud app, you need a cloud app, or you make cloud apps. Regardless of which of the three categories your business falls into, you need a clear and concise edge over your competitors. You simply need that sizzle that they don't have. Let's face it, today's online market is the fiercest it has ever been, and it's just going to get worse in the near future. It's time you learned to harness the power of on demand cloud computing to give your cloud based application the technical advantage it needs to succeed.

[caption id="attachment_710" align="aligncenter" width="300"]Harness The Power Of On Demand Cloud Computing To Give Your App The Sizzle To Sell Harness The Power Of On Demand Cloud Computing To Give Your App The Sizzle To Sell[/caption]

Consider the following five keys to online success today that savvy businesses are using to power their cloud based applications:

1. They Completely Understand The Fundamentals of Cloud Computing

Cloud Computing is more than just a buzzword to be thrown around at business and development meetings. There's an entire infrastructure with complex routing, business logic, and management and scalability concepts to master. Understanding how cloud services work will give your application the technical edge others do not have.

2. They Cultivate Healthy Partnerships With Cloud Computing Consulting Companies

Success isn't a destination you arrive to on your own. By doing business with cloud computing firms that specialize in a particular niche, you can effortlessly give your application the advantage that the others simply do not have.

3. They Continually Monitor What Other Companies In Cloud Computing Are Doing

Often times market shifts are kicked off by a few select companies adopting a specific technology or shunning another. Knowing who your peers are and what the other cloud computing companies are doing will keep your application current, agile and ready to evolve to the next level.

4. They Constantly Leverage The Power Of The Business Cloud For Themselves

Successful applications are powered by businesses that are using cloud computing services to their fullest benefit. By utilizing online collaboration suites, document sharing, and on demand computing power, the team behind your application can work together in a smarter, more efficient manner, giving your application the social step up it needs.

5. They Confidently Offer Additional Business Cloud Services To Their Customers

You can extend cloud computing for businesses on a segregated private network reserved just for your customer. This facilitates access to troubleshooting, and allows you to easily update, maintain, and manage the service, extending the versatility of your application.

No matter where your business finds itself in today's cloud-based market - either using an app, needing an app, or selling an app - understanding the five key points mentioned above will greatly impact the business life-cycle of your application in a positive manner. Your next steps are fairly simple: familiarize yourself with the list, and begin to implement techniques on a daily basis to out-sizzel your competition!

Robert O'Haver
Internet Marketing Consultant
Riptide Software Inc.
407-542-7670
Cloud Services

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_J_O'Haver
http://EzineArticles.com/?Harness-The-Power-Of-On-Demand-Cloud-Computing-To-Give-Your-App-The-Sizzle-To-Sell&id=7180502

 

4 Steps: How Cloud Computing Software Has Enriched K-12 Class Registration

4 Steps: How Cloud Computing Software Has Enriched K-12 Class Registration


By Jonathan Reynold


The term Cloud computing is specific to activities that involve delivering hosted services via the internet. Nowadays, Cloud computing interfaces are growing in demand as it allows organizers across the globe to effectively execute conferences, seminars, classes and training programs. Organizers feel more inclined towards these computing interfaces as they are flexible and cost effective. In recent times, an ample number of K-12 education institutions are resorting to Cloud-based class registration software to effectively streamline learning programs to their potential candidates. Let me now discuss how Cloud computing has enriched K-12 class registration:

Ease of Usage


The Cloud-based interface gives educational institutions an ease of usage. The K-12 instructors do not have to be technologically sound to successfully execute their training programs via this interface. Further, the service does not require installation of any additional hardware or software program. There is also no additional cost involved in using this service. The service however involves a one-time subscription.

[caption id="attachment_705" align="aligncenter" width="300"]How Cloud Computing Software Has Enriched K-12 Class Registration How Cloud Computing Software Has Enriched K-12 Class Registration[/caption]

User-friendly Registration and Payment

The usage of Cloud - based class registration software facilitates the automation of entire process of registration right from creation, procession and submission. This somewhat eases out the registration process of K-12 classes. Not only that the service is available 24 hours. Interested students and their parents can register at any time at any hour of the day from any convenient location. Moreover, the registration service comes embedded with online payment service that allows institutions to accept payments via credit/debit card or via reputed payment gateways from prospective registrants.

Easy Viewing Class Schedules


The web based class registration software facilitates K-12 class attendees and well as instructors with a calendaring tool that makes the learning process enchanting. The distinguishing features of this tool are that it helps in systematic viewing of the class schedules, examination details etc.

Effective Tracking of Last Minute Cancellations

The smart web based solution also helps organizations to keep a track of the number of seats filled. Sometimes it may be the case that the number of K-12 registrants exceeds the number of seats available. Such instances can be effectively managed by the wait list manager tool offered by the class registration software. The tool helps institutions to keep a tab on the number of seats filled. Any last minute cancellation is also taken care of by registering the wait list candidate.

The emergence of Cloud computing software has made K12 Class Registration so much more rewarding.

Jonathan is a professional trainer. He employs latest technology for online class registration and online training registration that results in more attendance and ROI.

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Saturday, August 4, 2012

Why Cloud Computing?

Why Cloud Computing?






Clouds pass over the moon and every cloud gets its chance to completely or partially cover the moon, isn't it? So, this is the basic concept, if understood the assumptions. Accessing the software's partially or completely which is on a particular server is called cloud computing.



Now let's discuss: Why cloud computing?


Hope everyone has a Operating Systems (OS) on your PC's or computers. Have you ever experienced with OS crashing problems? Yes would be the answer, it happens sometimes. Just consider if we are accessing the OS on the manufacturer's server as a service, will that crashing problem occur? I don't think so, because the manufacturer would take care of the software or OS completely and makes sure there is 99% uptime. Similarly, instead of downloading the software, using it, facing problems, troubleshooting it, etc. wouldn't it be good to use the software from the manufacturers or the software providers server? I believe usage information, importance and needs are understood now.

[caption id="attachment_698" align="aligncenter" width="424"]Why Cloud Computing ? Why Cloud Computing ?[/caption]

You don't have to worry about the software anymore. Just login from anywhere and start using it. Yet there are some factors you need to consider in selecting a perfect cloud or SAAS software provider. Lets consider you are searching for a Time Clock software provider and obviously cloud based, so you need to consider these factors:

1. Customer Service and Support:

This factor is very important in everything, even in the purchase of a pin. Since you are going to access the software from the service providers servers, customer support is very much necessary to take you through the software access, features, options, etc. One can actually decide on buying something from a company based on its initial customer service offerings. At the same time after sales support is important in order to get the most out of the software you have subscribed for.

2. Server Capabilities:


Most service providers offer you 90+ % server uptime. And one must decide and purchase the subscriptions from the service provider offering the best server uptime, as you must be able to access the software anytime and anywhere. Also, make sure the server is maintained properly and get detailed information such as whether the server is owned or rented by the service provider, so that you can understand the management of server and resources involved in keeping the server active.





3. Functionalities:

Functionalities depend on the software or the tool you subscribe to. In this case, one must check out the features and options provided with the time clock. The kind of tracking options available and whether the software just tracks time or even the projects worked on. Also, one must make sure whether the time clock can track in-depth factors such as time spent on each projects and provides in-depth analysis reports on time spent on each project and time spent on other activities too. Finally it all comes to the value we get for our money, isn't it?

So, this is what Cloud computing is all about, just pay and subscribe for software or tool and start using it. The rest will be taken care by the service provider that includes server maintenance, server uptime, data confidentiality, accessibility, etc.



The cloud based software's for time tracking that I would recommend are employee time clock and project tracking software.