Write short notes on the following: Cloud computing and its benefits

One of the most talked about concept in information system is the cloud computing. Cloud computing is defined as utilization of computing services, i.e. software as well as hardware as a service over a network. Cloud computing simply means the use of computing resources (hardware and software) as a service through networks, typically the Internet. Typically, this network is the internet. Some of the benefit of cloud computing is as follows: Cloud computing reduces IT infrastructure cost of the company. Putting businesses on cloud gives easy access to company's data and saves time and money in project start-ups. Cloud computing promotes the concept of virtualization, which enables server and storage device to be utilized across organization. Cloud computing makes maintenance of software and hardware easier as installation is not required on each end user's computer. Security: One of the major concerns of every business, regardless of size and industry, is the security of its data. Data breaches and other cybercrimes can devastate a company's revenue, customer loyalty and brand positioning. Cloud offers many advanced security features that guarantee that data is securely stored and handled. Scalability: Different companies have different IT needs – a large enterprise of 1000+ employees won't have the same IT requirements as a start-up. Using cloud is a great solution because it enables enterprise to efficiently and quickly scale up/down their IT departments, according to business demands. Cloud based solutions are ideal for businesses with growing or fluctuating bandwidth demands. If your business demands increase, you can easily increase your cloud capacity without having to invest in physical infrastructure. Mobility: Cloud computing allows mobile access to corporate data via smartphones and devices, which is a great way to ensure that no one is ever left out of the loop. Staff with busy schedules, or who live a long way away from the corporate office, can use this feature to keep instantly up-to-date with clients and coworkers. Disaster Recovery: Cloud services makes it easier for the customers to recover their lost data in case of Server/Memory failure or in case of emergency scenarios- from natural disasters to power outages. Some issues concerning cloud computing are privacy, compliance, security, legal, abuse, IT governance, etc.