Cloud computing is a “hype topic” on everyone’s lips. The growth figures have been in the double digits for years – in business, cloud computing is therefore seen as a mega trend in the high-tech industry.
Using memory, software, or even entire infrastructures without investing in expensive hardware or licenses is also interesting for private users.
And that’s not just limited to uploading your pictures to photo databases like Picasa or Dropbox and sharing them with friends.
But what about the successful model of cloud computing? Is it safe to use, and what do you have to watch out for? This article is intended to provide a brief introduction and assistance.
But, cloud computing means that part of the hardware or software is no longer operated by the user but is rented as a service from one or more providers.
The applications and data are no longer on the local computer, but on different servers, usually without being able to say precisely where they are at the moment. You are in the “cloud.” Access is via the Internet.
The range of offers ranges from sending messages via web-based mail service, from web storage options for photos to highly complex, scalable applications for companies and organizations. Most users have been using cloud computing in its original form for many years.
Cloud computing can be divided into two forms and three service types:
Cloud computing includes various service models, some of which are difficult to distinguish. Essentially, however, three types can be distinguished:
Cloud computing also offers undeniable advantages for private users:
However, the user must be aware that there are also risks when using cloud computing services in addition to the advantages. The security of the data is
The biggest vulnerability.
Commercial companies face challenges when using the cloud. On the other hand, it is usually not particularly relevant for private users.
For example, only interoperability and portability hurdles are mentioned here, i.e., problems arising if you want to transfer your data from one provider to another.
The user naturally is interested in the provider of cloud computing services not passing on his data to third parties without authorization, for example, for commercial purposes.
It is, therefore, imperative to pay attention to the general terms and conditions of the provider. Permission is often found here for specific data to be passed on.
This is especially the case with free offers since the data sale is the provider’s only income source. You should consider whether you should not instead choose a paid offer where you can be sure that your data will remain untouched.
Other essential points for private users are the availability and integrity of the data. Providers often advertise by pointing out the risk of data loss if your hard drive crashes.
Storing the data in the cloud is, therefore, more secure. Nothing is more annoying when the data cannot be provided at the desired time or – even worse – that it has been destroyed due to technical difficulties.
You should, therefore, always ensure in advance that you are dealing with a reputable provider with the technical know-how and the capacities to protect the data entrusted to him in the best possible way.
You should also ensure that the provider does not exclude liability for data loss. Therefore, if in doubt, it is better to spend a few euros more.
As a rule, private users do not fall under the provisions of the Federal Data Protection Act, as long as the data is only stored for family and personal activities ( 1 Para. 2 No. 3 BDSG).
In individual cases, however, it isn’t easy to differentiate. For example, the exchange of information within an association can no longer be classified as personal and private.
The scope of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) may also apply if personal data is processed fully or partially automatically or if non-automated processing is to be stored in a file system (Art. 2 Para. 1 GDPR, Art. 4 GDPR).
In addition, if the data placed in the cloud falls into the hands of third parties and is misused, the user may be held liable for violating general personal rights.
Therefore, you should always exercise caution and consider which data you entrust to the cloud. When in doubt, less is more here.
Infographic created by HotWire Networks
Cloud computing also offers a wealth of advantages for private users. But you have to be aware of the risks involved.
Running a small business takes work, especially as there are constantly evolving challenges in the…
The world has seen a massive change after the Covid-19 pandemic, as there has been…
There is a lot of talk in the marketing world about competitive pricing analysis (CPA)…
Technology is fascinating. It changes our lives in countless ways, and it gets crazier every…
The first quarter of 2023 is almost over, and now is a great time for…
SMS messaging is an effective tool for increasing customer engagement and driving more sales. It…