Cloud Storage

Cloud storage is a model of networked online storage where data is stored on virtualized pools of storage which are generally hosted by third parties. Hosting companies operate large data centers; and people who require their data to be hosted buy or lease storage capacity from them and use it for their storage needs. The data center operators, in the background, virtualize the resources according to the requirements of the customer and expose them as storage pools, which the customers can themselves use to store files or data objects. Physically, the resource may span across multiple servers.

Cloud storage services may be accessed through a web service application programming interface (API), or through a Web-based user interface.

Case Study:

Divorce can be an ugly matter with both parties trying to take advantage of the other. When you store things on your computer, even with a passowrd, you run the risk of having your computer stolen. Where do you get the data from again to rebuild your replacement computer?  If you saved it in the Cloud, as one of our client's had, you just reinstall your programs and download your data - fresh as the last time it was instantly backed up.   Don't let the spectre of theft, or vandalism prevent you from safegarding your data.  With our system, we can bring access to your Blackberry, IPhone, or Android Device, as well as any other computer connected to the Internet for you to have access to your files 24 hours a day.

Cloud storage advantages

• Companies need only pay for the storage they actually use as it is also possible for companies by utilizing actual virtual storage features like thin provisioning.^[3]
• Companies do not need to install physical storage devices in their own datacenter or offices, but the fact that storage has to be placed anywhere stays the same (maybe localization costs are lower in offshore locations).^[3]
• Storage maintenance tasks, such as backup, data replication, and purchasing additional storage devices are offloaded to the responsibility of a service provider, allowing organizations to focus on their core business, but the fact stays the same that someone has to pay for the administrative effort for this tasks

Potential concerns

• Security of stored data and data in transit may be a concern when storing sensitive data at a cloud storage provider ^[3]
• Performance may be lower than local storage depending on how much a customer is willing to spend for WAN bandwidth ^[3]
• Reliability and availability depends on wide area network availability and on the level of precautions taken by the service provider.^{[citation needed]}
• Users with specific records-keeping requirements, such as public agencies that must retain electronic records according to statute, may encounter complications with using cloud computing and storage