Simply put, cloud computing is a method of delivering various services over the internet. These resources include applications such as data storage, servers, databases, networking, and software.
Instead of storing large amounts of data on a hard drive or local storage on a computer or smartphone, cloud-based storage allows you to store files as long as you have internet access.
Cloud computing is a popular option because it offers many advantages, such as cost savings, increased productivity, speed, efficiency, performance, and security. Therefore, it is no surprise that many companies and individuals use the cloud to store their data.
This time, Indonesian Cloud would like to share with clouders what cloud computing is.
A Deeper Understanding of Cloud Computing
It is called cloud computing because information is accessed remotely in the “cloud” or a virtual space. Companies that provide cloud services allow users to store files and applications on remote servers. These files and applications can be accessed as long as there is an internet connection. This means users do not need to be in a specific location to access their files.
Cloud computing can be public or private. Public cloud services are provided openly over the internet, while private cloud services are available only to specific users. There is also a hybrid option, which combines both public and private cloud models.
Examples of Cloud Computing Usage
Regardless of its various services, cloud computing provides users with a range of functions, such as:
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Email services, for example Zimbra Mail
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Storage, backup, and data recovery
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Developing and testing applications
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Data analysis
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Audio and video streaming
Cloud computing is considered a relatively new service, but it is already used by a wide range of organizations—from small businesses to large enterprises, government institutions, and even individual users.
In addition, cloud computing also includes services such as language processing, artificial intelligence, and standard workplace applications. In short, it covers services that do not require users to physically interact with hardware such as computers or laptops.
Types of Cloud Computing Based on Services
Cloud computing is not a single piece of technology like microchips or mobile phones. Instead, it is a system that mainly consists of three services: Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), and Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS).
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Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) involves licensing software applications to users. This license is usually provided through a pay-as-you-go or on-demand model. An example of SaaS is Microsoft Office 365.
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Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) involves delivering operating systems, servers, and storage through IP-based connectivity as an on-demand service. Clients do not need to purchase software or servers. Popular examples include Indonesian Cloud Public Cloud and Microsoft Azure.
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Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) is often considered the most complex service. PaaS is similar to SaaS, but the main difference is that instead of delivering software online, PaaS provides a platform for building software that is delivered via the internet. Examples include Salesforce.com and Heroku.
How Cloud Computing Works
Every cloud computing model generally has two common factors: data centers located off-site and the need for internet access. Server resources within these data centers are pooled together to create a large platform capable of hosting virtual services.
These pooled resources are managed flexibly, allowing users to access additional storage or computing power when needed. Likewise, unused resources are released back to the cloud when no longer required.
This on-demand resource usage offers nearly unlimited scalability and flexibility, as cloud computing needs are constantly changing and dynamic.
Advantages of Using Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is not just about remote file access. With cloud computing, users can check emails from any computer or store and access files from anywhere using services like Dropbox or Google Drive.
As a result, companies that use cloud services can significantly reduce costs. Before cloud computing existed, companies had to purchase, own, and manage their own IT infrastructure. With cloud computing, companies only need a data center and an IT division to ensure a fast and stable internet connection so employees can interact with the cloud online.
Cloud services also help employees save storage space on laptops or computers. When software or applications need updates, users simply download them without using traditional methods such as discs or flash drives.
For example, Adobe allows users to access applications through Creative Cloud using a subscription model. This enables users to download the latest versions and apply updates more easily.
You can read more about this in our related article >> Keuntungan dan Kelemahan Cloud Computing Untuk Infrastruktur IT Perusahaan
Cloud Computing from a Business Perspective
To migrate to a cloud system, the first step is to evaluate the value of your existing IT infrastructure. There are many factors to consider, such as data center maintenance costs, rental fees, hardware and software prices, CPU and RAM specifications, and more. You also need to decide whether to retire existing infrastructure or rebuild it for cloud and SaaS packages, as each option has its own costs. Cloud adoption also requires considering additional staffing costs, for example.
Businesses can use cloud computing in different ways. Some move all applications and data to the cloud, while others adopt a hybrid model, where certain applications or data remain on private servers and the rest are hosted in the public cloud.
Some popular cloud service providers in Indonesia include:
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Indonesian Cloud
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Amazon Web Services (AWS)
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Microsoft Azure
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IBM Cloud
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Alibaba Cloud
Indonesian Cloud is one of the cloud service providers in Indonesia and also offers VPS products through cloudhostingaja.com. You can choose services tailored to your needs. Indonesian Cloud also provides private cloud solutions to meet the internal requirements of companies or organizations. Our private cloud services are built and operated exclusively for a single customer with specific business needs and are not shared with others. The private cloud platforms we offer include VMware, Red Hat, and Nutanix.