Cloud computing is essentially a type of shared computing and it could be constructed to become a large-scale computing infrastructure. In this case, a cloud system can be consisted of thousands of servers that are integrated into a whole unity. Average users could access cloud computing services, but renting storage, application or processing power in one of the physical servers. Cloud computing can be incredibly affordable, because people only pay what they have used or plan to use. It is clear that cloud computing could provide us with a high degree of flexibility compared to standard computing services used in many companies. In this case, these companies could use local servers; it means that the company will need to invest on the hardware, cooling system, qualified administrators and others.
Due to its flexibility, we should be able to create a mini cloud solution with only a single server unit, as long as there is enough Internet connection to serve users. In this case, users will be demanded to pay fixed fee or fee based on the amount of usage. Compared to local solutions, cloud should be able to provide us with many enticing promises. The expandability of cloud solutions could allow us to expand our existing computing infrastructure. This is essential, as the demand expands. Cloud solutions could also be quite affordable, because we would only need to pay what we use. The existing processing capability can be expanded as specific threshold has been reached. It means that the cloud service providers would need to start expanding their resources when demands for resources have reached specific limit, specifically not far from the maximum capacity of the whole cloud solution.
Of course, there are a number of problems that we should be aware of. It is important for cloud service providers to overcome any obstacle. Once any of the challenge is solved, we should find that cloud computing to be quite affordable and useful. One of the most crucial issues is whether the service level agreement could really benefit consumers. Because data, applications and other information is stored in remote locations, users may find that they don’t have a complete control. This could be quite true when a cloud network isn’t yet completely mature. It may be difficult for the provider to deliver the guaranteed performance, especially in a high peak situation. Macro events, such as prolonged blackout and natural disaster could also affect the reliability of cloud network, if data and applications are not properly backed up to other remote locations.
In immature cloud systems, usage spike can still be a problem. There are also unpredictable events that we need to consider. Any kind of immaturity issue can be solved by proper training and solid technological implementations. We should also be able to monitor the performance of a cloud system with proper metering. This could also be integrated with automated pricing, using reliable software. So, even during heavy demand periods, the monitoring and billing processes can be performed much more easily.
