Cloud computing is one of the hot things in I.T. right now. Everyone is talking about it. But does anyone actually know what it means? Is this something you might want to use - or is it something you already are using? Let Mother help enlighten a "cloudy" topic.

Many people engage in cloud computing without even realizing it. Many companies like ours who offer managed IT services have offerings "in the cloud." At its simplest, it includes such ubiquitous online applications as Hotmail (which has been around since 1996), Flickr and YouTube. Software and files are traditionally stored on a user’s own desktop or a local server. Cloud computing, also known as Software as a Service (SaaS), is different because it stores resources remotely and delivers them over the internet. Data and services can then be accessed from any computer, irrespective of location or even operating system. All you need is a web connection.

Cloud computing is catching on with even the big guys. Microsoft released a ‘lightweight’ web version of Office, which includes programs such as Word and Excel. It’s a significant move by the software giant. In 2007, Office generated around $19 billion for the company, almost a third of its total revenue. 

It’s easy to see why cloud computing - in all its forms - continues to gain momentum. Users can work anywhere and, if your computer breaks or your laptop is stolen, you won’t lose any data. Its scalability means you only pay for the resources you need. The cost and hassle of maintaining lots of computers and software is someone else’s responsibility. And the economies of scale offered by the cloud mean that services can be made available at lower prices.

What does this mean for your business? Cloud computing allows some companies to outsource their entire IT infrastructure. How will it work with your business?