Computer networks and topologies - Cambridge OCRThe cloud

The cloud is a generic term for remotely accessed storage. This storage is accessed through the internet. Users do not actually know where their data is stored - the geographical location is unimportant. Users only need to know that their data is stored on a server connected to the internet.

Using cloud storage brings several advantages:

• the ability to access files from any location or any device, so long as an internet connection exists
• similarly, access can be granted to another user so they can remotely access your data
• reduced need to make backups - cloud storage services back up the data for you

There are disadvantages to using the cloud:

• there is no guarantee that someone else is not accessing your data
• there is no guarantee that your data is being backed-up
• access to data is only possible with an internet connection - no connection means no access to data

In recent years, the cloud has also become a term for internet-based software facilities. These facilities usually offer limited versions of popular software such as word processors, spreadsheets and presentation software.

Cloud software facilities are ideal for low-powered devices, or for users who spend a lot of time travelling.

Web servers and clients

Whenever a person types in a website address and clicks a link, the client sends a request to the web server. The server finds the correct page and sends it back to the client, displayed in their browser. This is how online content such as web pages, videos and images are shown on screens.