Cloud Computing is Here

The next major evolution of the desktop computer is here, and you may already be using it. Meet Cloud Computing, also known as grid computing-it denotes the latest trend in application development for Internet services, relying on clouds of servers to handle tasks that used to be managed by individual servers or desktop machines. With Cloud Computing, developers take important services, such as email, calendars, and word processing, and host them entirely online, powered by a vast array (or cloud) of interdependent servers.

In essence, Cloud Computing eliminates the threats of system downtime, or worse, data loss. If an individual server in the cloud fails, the remaining servers quickly respond by taking over the workload. Through a similar design of redundancy, arrays of hard drives can recreate lost data as long as a certain percentage of the original data set remains.

Cloud Computing presents advantages for large organizations seeking to centralize the management of software and data storage, while at the same time guaranteeing reliability and security for their users. With the technology, large organizations can effectively eliminate the individual desktop computer from the entire equation. If all data and software is stored in the cloud-and accessed through a Web site portal-there's no need to worry about the security and software on each user's desktop computer. As long as the system has a Web browser, it works as good any other.

Interestingly, many people don't realize that they are already utilizing this next-generation cloud technology in their personal lives. Namely, Google's Gmail or Yahoo Mail services both utilize massive clouds of servers to power their virtually flawless applications. In these cases, the companies host the entire email application online, and store data across a series of geographically dispersed servers. If an end user's desktop computer crashes, their entire library of emails is still stored safely in the Gmail or Yahoo Mail cloud.

The commercialization of the cloud is also beginning to gain momentum in the corporate world. The release of IBM's "Blue Cloud" service, Google's push for more datacenter locations, and most notably Microsoft's attempted buyout of Yahoo, all point to shifting priorities in the race to embrace Cloud Computing.

As these companies start to get their way, and they will-the gap between desktop computers and Cloud Computing will widen, and the traditional desktop will be something of the past. Its purpose as a venue for storing data will be eliminated, and like the days past, desktop computers will be used instead as terminals, accessing a larger machine.

But hey, it's not all bad: no more software licenses, lost files or confusion about where you saved last year's tax returns. They're all stored safely in the cloud.

Errett CordAuthor Info: Errett Cord is a former excutive of a web hosting firm who has worked with many small- to medium-sized companies developing effective internet strategies. As part of his commitment to helping others improve their businesses, Errett has become deeply involved with Magento and how to effectively set up and manage the platform. Contact Errett Cord (ecord@ecord.us)