Windows8 brings Cloud Computing to all

Interestingly, Microsoft have listed three distinct categories of how people use cloud computing for personal use.

1. File Clouds
2. Device Clouds
3. Application Clouds

File Clouds provide cloud based traditional file storage that give users access from anywhere and examples include Microsoft’s own SkyDrive as well as services such as DropBox.
Device Clouds allow content to be purchased and shared across multiple devices in a transparent way. These devices maybe TV’s, mobile devices and work without the users having to be concerned where the content is stored. The most obvious example of this is Apple’s iCloud.
Application Clouds Hosted in the cloud, these applications allow anywhere access as well as improved document sharing and collaboration. No client software installation and a pay per use model means that these applications are attractive to individuals. Examples include Google Apps, Office365 as well as services such as Spotify.Let us see how microsoft incorpates this features in windows8.

1. A fully fledged operating system with cloud computing

Numerous efforts in the arena of cloud computing are focused on browser based cloud computing. Windows 8 is different. It seeks to provide all the features you need in an operating system while enabling cloud computing. Windows 8 will get installed on your PC, tablet or your phone and offer cloud computing on all these devices along with all that an OS brings.

2. Access to applications over the web

Installation, configuration and troubleshooting of applications will not be the responsibility of the user. In addition, you will not have to invest in buying apps that you do not need over the long term. Access applications when you need them without having to go through the hassle of installation, configuration or maintenance.

3. Freedom from need for synchronization of data on devices

This is akin to the various applications you use over the web wherein you store data that you can access anytime from any of the devices through which internet access is possible, whether it is your laptop, desktop PC, a tablet or a mobile phone.

4. Retention of device storage space

This is a definite advantage over Google’s Chromebook which allows only cloud based storage. The way Chromebook goes about providing cloud computing is not likely to go down well with everyone and may still see people getting apprehensive. Windows 8 strikes a balance with facility for storage on the device as well as in the cloud. This will certainly find favor with people.

5. Ease of scaling of resources

The high cost of maintenance, resource expansion and computing infrastructure will become a thing of the past with Windows 8. Sharing of resources and use of resources as a service will enable a reduction in operational costs. If you are a small business owner, you will benefit immensely from cloud computing services through Windows 8. Windows Azure platform is likely to come in the picture here. Your storage needs and application requirements as your business grows need not be a reason to worry. Scale up the resources seamlessly with cloud computing. Use the applications without investing heavily in buying them and worrying about the maintenance issues. Windows 8 will make this possible through cluster support.

The advantages of cloud computing presented it as a favorable alternative in the world of computing. As and when it makes its presence felt in the general desktop computing domain, the cost of using computing resources will go down significantly. In addition, syncing of data on different devices will become a thing of past. All eyes are now on the launch of Windows 8.