Cloud Computing (Cambridge (CIE) A Level Computer Science) : Revision Note
Cloud computing
What is cloud computing?
Cloud computing is when software, services or files are hosted entirely on remote servers
Accessed through the internet
The two most common cloud computing examples are:
Cloud storage
Cloud software
Cloud storage
Cloud storage is long-term storage of data that resides in a remote location
Accessible only via the Internet (WAN)
Data is stored on remote servers in data centres
Storage is usually on HDDs (magnetic) but increasingly SSDs (solid state)
Examples include: Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive
Cloud software
Cloud software is hosted and managed remotely
The user accesses the software online (on demand)
The provider handles:
Maintenance
Upgrades
Security
Typically paid for via a monthly fee or yearly subscription
Examples include: Google Docs, Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Cloud
Worked Example
A company uses cloud computing.
Define cloud computing. [1]
Answer
Accessing a service/files/software on a remote server [1 mark]
Benefits and drawbacks of cloud computing
Cloud storage
Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
Accessibility – access files from anywhere with an internet connection | Needs a reliable internet connection – slow or no connection can stop access to files |
Easy to share and collaborate with others | Can be expensive – especially for large amounts of data or long-term use |
Works on any device with internet access | Ongoing costs – often requires a monthly or annual subscription |
Scalability – storage can be increased or decreased as needed | May need to pay for extra data transfer (upload/download limits) |
Reliability – data is backed up across multiple servers | Security risks – data sent over the internet could be intercepted |
Security features – encryption, multi-factor authentication | Less control – provider manages security, but you’re still responsible for protecting user data |
No need to buy expensive storage hardware | |
No need to hire specialist IT staff – support is handled by the provider | |
Eco-friendly – centralised data centres are more efficient than millions of local servers |
Cloud software
Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
Accessible anywhere – use the software on any device with an internet connection | Needs internet access – won’t work properly offline |
No installation needed – runs through a browser or app | Performance depends on internet speed – slow connections can affect usability |
Automatic updates – provider handles all software updates and patches | Ongoing costs – usually requires a monthly or yearly subscription |
Maintenance is handled – no need for specialist IT staff to manage or fix the software | Data privacy concerns – your data is stored on the provider’s servers |
Scalable – easy to upgrade or downgrade your software plan | Less control – provider decides when updates or changes are made |
Security included – providers manage security features like firewalls and encryption | Legal responsibility – you’re still responsible for how personal data is stored, even if it’s hosted |
Often works across multiple devices – laptops, tablets, phones | Some features may be limited compared to full versions installed on a local device |
Public & private clouds
What is the difference between a public and a private cloud?
Type | Public Cloud | Private Cloud |
|---|---|---|
Ownership | Servers are owned and managed by a third-party provider | Servers are owned and managed by the company itself |
Access | Services are shared with other organisations or users | Access is restricted to that company or organisation |
Examples | Google Drive, Microsoft 365, Dropbox | Company intranet, internal company cloud servers |
Cost | Cheaper – shared infrastructure reduces cost | More expensive – company pays for hardware, maintenance, and staff |
Control | Less control over data and security settings | More control – company manages its own data and security |
Security | Relies on provider’s security measures | Can apply custom security policies and have full oversight |
Worked Example
Give two benefits and one drawback of using cloud computing. [3]
Answer
1 mark each from:
Public
Computing services offered by 3rd party provider over the public Internet [1 mark]
Public is open/available to anyone with the appropriate equipment/software/credentials [1 mark]
Private
Computing services offered either over the Internet or a private internal network [1 mark]
Only available to select users not the general public [1 mark]
Private is a dedicated/bespoke system only accessible for/from the organisation [1 mark]
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