Accessing resources located somewhere over the internet is the simplest way to explain what is cloud computing.  Just by using Hotmail or Gmail, you are already participating in the use of the cloud service.  This infrastructure is growing in its popularity that millions of people are already enjoying its benefits without even realizing it.  Applications like web-based e-mails and social networking sites are great examples of the popularity of cloud computing.  Examples of other cloud computing service providers are the following:  Microsoft Azure, Rackspace, AWS or Amazon Web Services, Appsport, Picasa, etc.

So what exactly are the benefits of the cloud service?  It is mostly economic, especially for companies or businesses that are still very small.  A start-up business, for example, can launch the cloud computing service without investing anything in hardware or software because the only things you need when getting a cloud service are your personal computer, a browser and an internet connection.  A PDA or a mobile phone can even access a cloud service.  You will also get unlimited resources with cloud computing because it runs 24/7 and everything is being shared, so if your US-based company are outsourcing in the Philippines, they can access the same resources that you are using in getting both of your jobs done.

To talk about what is cloud computing should also include the topic regarding its characteristics as well.

• The cloud computing program can heal itself.  The application’s last back-up immediately turns into the primary copy if and when system failure strikes.
• There are thousands of computers and servers that handle this cloud computing situation, which is why it can also offer high scalability.
• The fees that a business is charged when using the cloud service is based on their storage, bandwidth and computing usage.  In short, it is a pay-per-use service.
• Provisioning a cloud service doesn’t require lengthy processes.  All you need to do is to let your service provider know the amount of storage, computing, process, or software you need and everything will be set up for you.
• Resource pooling.  Any customer or client can use the hardware or software resources as soon as another client releases it.

It is also inevitable that despite the cloud’s popularity, criticisms about it still would arise.  Some people’s concern is that companies who use it and are already fond of using it will become too dependent on the usage of the internet.  Also, since cloud computing provides access to third parties all of its digital information, concerns about the security and privacy of one user’s data is highly questioned.