Cloud computing

The desktop and laptop computers that we currently use carry with them a certain amount of local processing power. However, through “cloud computing” we could see this change as we move towards a different way of working.

Cloud computing refers to processing power moving away from the user and into large data centres. Just as on a network, storage space for files might be located offsite and accessed through your computer, so the software and processing power to run it could be located elsewhere.

Instead of running our own processors and software from within a laptop or desktop, we could end up dipping into the power of large offsite systems commonly known as “the cloud”.

This shift would mean that the computers we use will do little more than manage the interface, offering a window onto that power and the applications on the network. Gone will be the need to install each piece of software onto every computer.

Having every business-critical system located on a network will undoubtedly bring security concerns, not to mention the issue of potential downtime should your network fail.

Without guarantees on these issues, we are more likely to see gradual steps towards a “cloud computing” model, but the potential benefits are numerous.