The Pros and Cons of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing has grown in popularity over the past several years. The term "cloud computing" typically refers to computing that is done through an Internet browser. Whether this is writing, outlining, creating presentations, or spreadsheeting, cloud computing has several notable advantages and disadvantages. Should you be interested in cloud computing? In this article I am going to describe the pros and cons of cloud computing so that you can decide whether it is something that you wish to explore.

Cloud Computing Pro #1 - Availability
One of the major advantages of cloud computing is that you can access your work from almost any computer with an internet connection. You do not have to worry about losing or forgetting a flash drive. This is also an advantage if you do not own a computer or are frequently at computer labs, as many college students or seniors are.

Cloud Computing Pro #2 - Collaboration
Many cloud computing applications are designed with collaboration in mind, meaning that sharing updates and drafts with others is facilitated. For many, this is an attractive feature and can facilitate group projects or proofreading.

Cloud Computing Pro #3 - The Ability to Integrate Other Items
Another thing that many cloud computing applications offer is the ability to be integrated with other technological items, such as cell phones or the iPod Touch. This can be advantageous if you have a great idea for a piece of writing or a school assignment but aren't near a computer. You can text yourself an outline and then flesh out your project when you get to a computer. Another piece of technology that goes well with cloud computing is the netbook. Many netbooks lack sizable hard drives, so cloud computing can be a way of saving space on the computer.

Cloud Computing Con #1 - Internet Connection Necessary
Many cloud computing applications require you to have an Internet connection in order to work on your projects. Some offer a program that allows you to sync your online and offline versions of documents, which gets around this problem. However, this may not be an option for everyone, and if you forget to sync your project, you may be out of luck if you're out of WiFi range.

Cloud Computing Con #2 - Lost Projects
I have had terrible luck with losing paragraphs of writing on online applications in the past. This has set me back on several writing projects, if it has not killed them entirely. To me, this is one of the biggest drawbacks of cloud computing. However, this does not occur with every cloud computing application, and you may have better luck than that which I have had.

Cloud Computing Con #3 - Market Saturation
Many cloud computing applications have sprung up over the last few years. Unfortunately, this means that not every application will be successful. Looking back, Google Notebook was one cloud computing application that did not survive. Before you start to invest time in using any cloud computing application, make sure that you do your research and that it is popular. Otherwise, your writing may be lost if the site shuts down.

All in all, cloud computing can be a useful tool for people that are constantly on the go. However, it is also a good idea to supplement cloud computing with a flash drive or external hard drive so that documents aren't lost. If you have any other opinions on cloud computing, feel free to share your thoughts in the form of a comment. Thank you for reading!