Cloud computing is in the news recently as a possible benefit to aging computer infrastructure. Cloud computing essentially means that all aspects of a computer, such as databases, networks, servers, information, applications, services, data and storage is contained within a nebulous, Internet server provided by a computer company. In other words, everything within a computer conventionally will be found within a cloud of data when the computer connects to the internet. For example, a business or an individual's financial records could be found in a file on a computer or in a computer database. Instead, that database and records are stored within a cloud and can be accessed through a person or business computer, phone, or tablet.

Although it might sound scary that all information found on a personal computer or in a server could hypothetically be in a cloud, there are several benefits to such a system. One is that this system is cheaper and more efficient to implement. To meet the requirements of businesses and consumers, computer and internet infrastructure would have to be increased to allow many more businesses, especially around the world, to compete and grow. However, cloud computing can cut the costs immensely by having one server store data and programs within one space for multiple people and businesses.

Another benefit is mobility. Because the internet is required to access any piece of information a business or person has in the cloud, a mobile device can give an individual complete access to their work, servers, and programs. An entire office space might not be needed because workers could work for their company off a tablet in smaller offices. Electricity and server costs are minimal if all information is stored on cloud computing instead of computers. A mobile phone or a tablet can allow businesses to move and work on the go, allowing for increased mobility and reducing work space.

Further, information and data put into the cloud is heavily monitored by the provider of the server. Say a computer company provides cloud computing to businesses and individuals. That computer company will have the staff that carefully monitor security threats, back-up all data, reduce any data redundancies that slows down the system, and work with a business or individual directly with their unique problems or concerns.

If security concerns are still important for a client, many computer companies can help install private cloud computing server. Private cloud computing would only be accessible by the individual or business. The cloud would not incorporate data from the entire server since only one unique server is created for that company or individual. The benefits of a cloud are still in place for that business or individual with this private server, such as reduced work space and less technological capital required at work.

Another benefit is that immense amounts of data that can be placed within a cloud. Because the cloud business software is based within the internet, no physical amount of data space is required. What is meant by this is that a server requires aspects like memory to hold every piece of data a company might have. However, with cloud computing, a company or individual may place as much data as they want into the cloud. There are no limitations to what amount of information, programs, applications, or services can be placed within the cloud by a person.

Although there are still concerns with cloud computing, the benefits it has with consumers and businesses are immense. With cut costs, saved space and new innovative ways to perform work, cloud computing may help many people compete in the 21st century economy.