Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is a term that is being used to describe software services provided through the Internet. The model relies on storing data and software on the server and providing services to use this data via the web browser. Some of the common cloud computing providers are Google, Microsoft and Amazon. Since all the data is stored in the cloud, which is not in control of the end user there are some very real security and privacy issues with cloud computing.

The cloud computing providers claim that the chances of data breaches will decrease with cloud computing. Since the system will be secured and monitored by experts, it will most probably be secured more efficiently than that set up by one's local administrator. Also, the servers will be better designed to handle load issues and Denial of Service attacks that could cripple an enterprise.

There is a flip side to all this too. There is no real reason to believe that these vendors will be more capable of securing one's own data. There have been breaches in the security of almost all major players, resulting in loss of confidential data. Also, since there is so much more data to be revealed by compromising the security of a large player, they naturally become more attractive targets for attackers. There is also the small fact that one's confidential data is being stored on systems outside one's control. Also, an attack such as a Denial of Service that cripples access to the cloud computing provider means that the entire enterprise no longer has access to its own data. Contrasting this to the existing scenario, where a Denial of Service attack may prevent an enterprise from using the services offered but does not impact the availability of data, it is clear why one needs to tread carefully before moving to this architecture.