Improving Daily Productivity with the Cloud

Cloud computing in recent times have grown from festivities to staple daily standards. Where now a plethora of services on the Internet readily offer application services that aid us with day-to-day tasks. To most laymen all the surrounding talk about the Cloud seems to be another tech jargon that somehow seemed to have crept itself into everyone's lives. 

What is the Cloud? 

The cloud is virtualization of programs or applications that run on connected servers rather than a traditional computer allowing programs with greater requirements to utilize many connected computers at the same time distributing resources to allow it to run, while appearing to the user as a single program or application. It provides the end user and operator benefits including on-demand self-service, broad access across multiple devices, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and service metering capabilities. A simple example that everyone can relate to is how we use electricity in our homes, when we need more we can use more, and in the event that we do not need so much electricity we don't have to use it. Similar to the Cloud we can use more resources if required compared to the traditional computer which is only limited to the resources housed in the physical device that you are currently using.

How does it add value and not more unnecessary load to our already complex technology environment?

Having a physical device is already complex on its own as there are many requirements to maintain it to function to its best. Virtualization should generally add a layer of complexity on top of existing computing requirements, however cloud computing services are built so that users find it easy to use and the transition from a traditional computing approach. The Cloud promises to give significantly greater improvements to accessibility, computing power requirements, allows greater scalability beyond that of a local computer and that in itself is already proving to be a highly attractive offer to companies seeking greater growth.

Early localized virtualization was made popular with Oracle's VirtualBox. Where computers could be put within existing computers allowing the operator with unique additions to what seemed to be a fixed physical program or application running on a computer.

According to International Telecommunications Union, 2013 Worldwide Internet users are estimated to be at 39% of the world population (2.679 billion users).

Has the Cloud environment changed productivity on the Internet for the better? 

A study in 2010 by Mimecast discovered that 7/10 companies using cloud services are willing to and will move new applications to the cloud. Many would have done so by 2011. Small companies should consider moving to the cloud as they are able to access advanced IT solutions on pay-per-use basis, offering the opportunity for faster work, much greater accuracy, and more productivity. It allows programs and applications to be accessed online without the need for outright purchase, powered by the cloud vendor's own data center infrastructure giving you the required 'power' to do the work that you need. Ease the burden on your workforce as solutions are designed to ensure that leaders and employees are always able to carry on with their work, wherever they are. It could be in the hotel, airport, daily commute to work. This ensures businesses can get more done with the same resources, but without increasing pressures on their people.

More businesses are tapping into the cloud as popularity for it continues to grow. The 2013 Future of Cloud Computing Survey questioned 855 IT decision makers, cloud vendors, and business users, found that 75% of survey respondents are using the cloud in some way. A growth from the previous year where only 67% said that they were using the cloud.

A Microsoft survey has shown that many fears may be unfounded, especially conceding security and network reliability. 94% of businesses reported that they saw an improvement in security after switching to the cloud, and 75% said that network availability improved. 91% of respondents also said that their cloud providers made it easier to meet government compliance requirements.

Is security a top concern?

54% for migrating applications to the cloud, according to a very recent LinkedIn survey out of 7052 participants. GoGrid conducted a similar survey and also concluded Security as a top concern for migrating. However, 57% disagree in a 2010 survey by Mimecast agreed that cloud computing actually improved their security.

"There is no doubt that cloud providers provide flexible, high-quality services for often times less cost, and businesses who refuse to take advantage of this will fall further and further behind the competition. "

How you can jump in on the bandwagon.

Most cloud based services offered on the Internet give users a lot of freedom to try before requiring you to commit. Among the services on the Internet that can be used for initially for free that is powered by Cloud technology are:

Dropbox

Gmail

Flickr

Microsoft 365

EVERWORKS Cloud Infrastructure Hosting as a service.

Interested to do more with the cloud? Build with little worry as EVERWORKS provides Infrastructure Hosting for the cloud as a service. We take away all problems related to setting up an environment for a cloud. All that is required of you is to build your application or program and plug-it into a ready made EVERWORKS Cloud environment for you to enjoy the advantages of the cloud.

Find out more on what you can do with the EVERWORKS Cloud Infrastructure by contacting our team at cvs@everworks.com 

Has the Cloud improved your productivity and added value to your every day life? What are some of your experiences with the Cloud?

Cloud designed by Adam Whitcroft from the Noun Project

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4 Tips for Managing Risk in the Cloud

Cloud Computing. Everybody seems to be moving across to this promise where the cloud service allows you to have more computing power at your finger tips on demand, and a host of other benefits. The big question is should you? Considering that moving to the cloud does boast costs savings potential and increased efficiency, there is a fear that there will be a loss of control, and potentially conflicting information that the cloud could prove to be not as secure, and much more expensive that it would initially claim to be.

Governance, Risk and Compliance Strategy

Having a governance, risk and compliance strategy is a vital way to help ensure the transition to the cloud goes as smoothly as possible. Here are some factors to consider:

1. SLA's and the "Right to Audit" clause
2. Vendor Risk Management, and Cloud Security Standards
3. Data Details
4. Identity Management
5. Protect Yourself and Your Organization

Further reading: Forbes - Managing Cloud Risks

Security has been a major (constantly growing) issue in the cyber world as more and more people continue to use the Internet as a mainstream channel to conduct business and to perform daily tasks. Moving to the cloud is a positive direction, but it is gravely important for you to be able to properly manage and identify these risks.

1. Know the Basics, and going back to Basics

Beyond computers, you should sort out configuration management, asset management, separation of duties, have strong passwords, and much more. Many organizations get distracted by the big picture they fail to manage basic things. Take advantage of any tools provided by your Cloud Service Provider to assist you in "sludge" tasks that are vital to your business's overall security.

2. Have Solid Response Plans

A security threat can occur at any time, it isn't a question of whether or not it will occur anymore, but a question of when it will present itself. Even with security being at high levels, most breaches occur because of internal compromised employees. Build a strong solid response plan to face security incidents with confidence.

3. Maintain Constant Contact with your Cloud Service Provider

Anything can happen. No matter how much you plan things can take a twist. It will be a blessing to have your Cloud Service Provider always constantly having your back when things take an unexpected turn.

4. Know the Security of your Cloud Service Provider

The security measures that an infrastructure provider handles, should be delivered with documentations to show what has been achieved. 

Malaysia + Managing Risks in the Cloud

The cloud is the same throughout the world, and the risks are apparent even for Malaysia. Where security breaches in the digital realm have been more frequent in the recent years as Malaysians take to the Internet to perform their daily tasks. The tips for managing risks in the cloud spelled out above is highly relevant to Malaysia, and what better way than to start right to avoid the potential risks and reap the benefits of using the Cloud.

Cloud computing isn't as risky and frightening as most think. It just requires a little bit of proper planning and good practice, as with most new projects. Build on the strengths and compensate for weaknesses and you should be well on your way to reaping the benefits of using the Cloud.

referenced from Softlayer |  photoby SivaServer

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Cloud Database

This is something I wanted to share with readers as they read and find out more about. A lot of topics revolving technology can be over the top and filled with jargon. Stuff normal people just don't get. So I thought through this approach it would be informational for any person who might come across this article.

What is a Cloud Database?

A Cloud Database is simply a database that runs on a Cloud Computing Platform. There are generally two methods that you could go about Cloud Database, one option being able to run independently on a virtual machine image, or you could go for the more straightforward option that is to purchase a database service offered by a cloud service provider.

Advantages

Increased accessibility

The cloud is known for increased ability for any user to access required data and information on the go from anywhere. It allows for users to fix any known issues, or add data as and when it is most crucial or required.

Automated failover

Failover servers are redundant servers built for the event of failure or abnormal termination. 

Fast automated recovery

With automated failover servers readily in place in any case of failure, quick automated recovery is possible.

automated on the go scaling

With in-house hardware servers it isn't possible to immediately demand for an increase of power and scale down when power isn't required.

minimal investment and maintenance of in-house hardware

Ability to rent servers greatly reduce initial high investment for hardware servers.

and possible better performance

With Cloud Service Providers constantly having stiff competition, the ability for these service providers to provide their customers with the best possible service. 

Disadvantages

potential privacy & security issues

As with most cloud services the main issue that worries most users is the ability for service providers to provide an increased ability for privacy and ensure that data security is well in place.

Common deployment methods

virtual machine image

Build a hypothetical computer emulate a computer architecture and functions of a real world computer.

DBaaS

Data-Base-as-a-Service is a service that is managed by a Cloud Operators with already ready application functions that allow application developers freedom from the need of database experts and database administrators (DBA) to manage the database. 

What database is more better suited to Cloud?

NoSQL databases (included within NoSQL: Apache Cassandra, CouchDB, and MongoDB) are inherently better suited to the cloud, as they are more scalable and build to service heavy loads.

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Does this explain enough of Cloud Databases to you? What is your take on Cloud Databases, would you use it or would you not use it?

photoby Melina

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Private vs Public Cloud

There has been a lot of shenanigans about cloud computing and it has been revolving a lot of mainstream media of late. Yea yea I know what you're thinking, this is going to be just one of the other posts about "Cloud Computing" that doesn't seem to make a lot of sense, but it just is here to ride on with the waves of the world!

Guess what?! Sorry to disappoint you, but this isn't just one of those posts. Consider this to be a layman's article about cloud computing. Just for everyone else in the world who isn't very much a tech geek.

So cloud, it was probably as big news as Apple making moves with the mobile application world; which did generate quite a bit of buzz. So what is "Cloud Computing"? According to Wikipedia, it is a "colloquial expression used to describe a variety of different types of computing concepts that involve a large number of computers connected through a real-time communication network (typically the Internet)". Well the definition does its job, but it makes it a little bit too fancy for me. 

Just to explain it in a simple manner, consider this; you want to build something big, but now all you need is just a simple computer with a log-in and a subscription. Like immediate access to unlimited power supply whenever you need it, and only paying for what you use. Now that is a bare basic of cloud computing, but that is only just scratching the surface of it. (this post is supposed to be about private vs public cloud - I will touch on more specifics of cloud computing in a different post) 

Now let's move on, now that we have the basic idea of what cloud computing is the question is private vs public cloud; which should I need?

Public Cloud:

1. Standardized operations such as email, shared by many people
2. Collaboration projects
3. You have SaaS (Software as a Service) from a vendor with a well implemented security policy.

Private Cloud:

1. Your business and your data is controlled by you. (Privacy and Security is mandotary)
2. Your business industry requires high privacy and security.
3. Your business builds and innovates next generation cloud products.

Knowing which Cloud Computing option to choose can be a hassle, and being able to see a macro view helps in easing the decision making process.

Cloud Computing is still relatively new in the Malaysian market, but consider it to become a major player in future businesses. Consider going the cloud way, because it may suit your company's requirement for scalability, or just give you the occasional security net when you need power the most.

Let us know what you think:

1. Do you think cloud computing will solve your day to day business problems?
2. How is cloud computing changing the world of computing today?

image source cubeelite & imore

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European & US companies love Cloud Computing! But why Malaysian prefer on Hybrid Colocation?

Recently, I have came across a interesting study report that conducted by Manchester Business School (MBS) and Rackspace Hosting, and their research topic is about the impact of cloud computing on today's businesses. In summary of the report, on average, moving to the cloud computing saves a company around RM1,275,000 (or £255,000) every year or RM106,250 (or £21,250) every month.

Dr Brian Nicholson of the MBS said "The survey - which involved questioning 1,300 firms across the UK and the US - showed the benefits of cloud computing are being felt by many organisations, as 83% of firms that have adapted to this way of working have saved money by doing so. Meanwhile, 40% of companies in the UK indicated that the use of the cloud had helped their organisation to grow, with 56% using the money they are saving through this strategy to invest in other areas of their business."

Let's talk about this report for a minute, from my point of view, this reports is still conducted in US and UK, and of course it's more applicable for their countries. From the amount of what Cloud Computing can save for the companies have to tally with the amount of IT budget that average a European and US companies spent every year. Image if Cloud Computing can save RM1.2mil  or 50% of the company's IT budget, mean the company's default IT budget is RM2.4mil. 

In Malaysia, although not many of SME (Small & Medium Enterprise) company will allocate a million dollars as their IT budget annually, but the awareness of Cloud Computing has always come into their future plan to improve their current IT infrastructure, or plan to cut down their maintenance cost. Currently, many of SME companies are slowly moving their front-end or less important servers (such as web servers, file servers, email servers, and etc.) to cloud servers, while still maintain most of their critical servers (like database servers) with colocation hosting model. Usually, we will define such hosting model as Hybrid Colocation model. 

SO, why Hybrid Colocation hosting is still more popular in Malaysia? Or why IT managers here are more preferable to Hybrid Colocation hosting? From our interview with some existing clients, we noticed many of the IT person-in charge are still worry to migrate of the existing data or software, but willing to consider in converting its front-end server like web and email server into cloud computing. Many businesses have elements in their traditional environments that they are unable to move to a virtualised or cloud environment. So Hybrid Co-location solutions is always their first move into the cloud computing, that putting both allow  virtual and physical hardware together.

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