Cloud Computing (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE ICT)
Revision Note
Cloud Computing
What is cloud storage?
Cloud storage is a term to describe long-term (secondary) storage of data that resides in a remote location, accessible only via a wide area network (Internet)
Data is stored on remote servers, typically using magnetic storage (HDD), but increasingly using solid state (SSD)
The three types of cloud storage are:
Public cloud - The customer and the cloud storage provider are different companies
Private cloud - The customer and the cloud storage provider are a single organisation
Hybrid cloud - Combines both public and private cloud options and allows for sensitive data to remain private whilst providing public cloud services for less sensitive information
Advantages and disadvantages of cloud storage
Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
Data can be accessed from anywhere | A stable internet connection is required to use cloud storage |
Data can be accessed by anyone with the relevant permissions, making it quick to share files and collaborate with others | Storing data in the cloud may be vulnerable to security breaches |
Data can be accessed on any device with an internet connection | The user is dependent on the storage provider for the availability and reliability of its services |
Allows customers to increase or decrease their storage capacity as needed | Should the company dissolve or cease to exist, all cloud data may be lost |
Providers often use multiple servers to store and backup data, reducing the risk of data loss due to hardware failure | As the amount of storage or bandwidth required increases, the service may become expensive over time |
Providers offer advanced security features, such as data encryption and multi-factor authentication multi-factor authentication, to protect user data from unauthorised access | |
There is no need to hire specialist staff as IT services being provided by the cloud storage provider |
Worked Example
Explain the difference between cloud storage and local storage
[2]
Answer
Cloud storage involves storing data on remote servers accessed via the internet [1]
While local storage refers to storing data on physical devices like hard drives or flash drives [1]
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