Monthly Archives: August 2012

Did you hear about how storms and extreme heat (in the eastern US) hampered Amazons Cloud Computing operations?

Did you hear about how storms and extreme heat (in the eastern US) hampered Amazon’s Cloud Computing operations? Amazon Cloud Computing operations

Despite recent outages, the cloud remains the best choice for businesses, here’s why

If you’re located in the US, you were most likely affected by the recent record-breaking heat wave and string of storms (unless you’re a lucky Californian). The phenomenon actually left millions without power; citizens and businesses alike suffered at the hands of this freak occurrence. Despite their well-preparedness, Amazon and their cloud computing operations were also affected by the high temperatures; their web services being knocked out temporarily. The Amazon outage put some major sites offline like Netflix, Pinterest and Instagram, bringing a firestorm of complaints down on these individual businesses and their subscribers, no doubt. Amazon Cloud Computing operations

But the real question is, aren’t we being a bit too harsh with Amazon and their cloud computing services? After all, Amazon’s Virginia data center was itself knocked offline due to a regional power failure. Shouldn’t the affected users and businesses be coming down on nature or the failure of the power companies to prepare for such an event? If you step back and look at the situation from a wider vantage point, all of the tech articles circulating the net proposing that Amazon and cloud computing are somehow weak or faulty seems utterly laughable. Keep in mind folks, this recent heat wave was completely unprecedented; thousands of temperature-related records fell. Instead of jumping on the Amazon hate-wagon, ask yourself this – is there any form of computing / networking solution which can hold up in such stringent situations?

Storage services for the aforementioned websites were lost on Friday and restored on Saturday; although everyone was collectively freaking out, this was by all accounts, a minor event. If you need further proof that Amazon’s cloud services are up to snuff, just take a gander at their track record; in the past 6 years they have consistently delivered continuous service without any major hang-ups or failures. Sure, there was the technical event in 2011 which brought Foursquare and Reddit offline, but these types of events are extremely rare.

A learning experience
The truth is that a little downtime resulting from technical glitches and weather-related anomalies should be expected. Cloud computing is still being perfected, with the dawn of every passing day comes new challenges and learning opportunities. If anything, these types of events are teaching us how to better prepare for the unexpected. All in all, it’s much better to face minor outages which provide us with true insight than to encounter “butt-busting” scenarios in the midst of years of perfect operation. Perhaps a good comparison would be the way the immune system works in the human body; the more practice it gets, the stronger it becomes. Conversely, those who live a life completely free of all contaminants often find themselves to be much more susceptible to diseases.

The tradeoff
The main reason that Amazon’s cloud computing services present a danger to sites and businesses is due to its centralized nature. This is to say that because you have a large amount of resources resigned to one location, the statistical probability of it causing outages for multiple businesses increases slightly. On the other hand, the alternative (traditional IT / Waterfall) only appears to be more stable because it is spread out over a larger area (non-centralized). In other words, while having a centralized computing solution presents (a remote possibility of) potential service failure issues, it cannot be argued that cloud computing is anything but superior in terms of what it actually delivers to customers. Virtually the only thing that traditional IT has going for it is it’s decentralized nature; but once again, it is nowhere near as powerful, efficient or useful as its cloud computing counterpart.

A more decentralized form of cloud computing?  
One potential solution for these types of disruption issues is to strategically place data centers across regions, nations, and continents. Perhaps as we encounter more and more breakdowns resulting from weather anomalies, malicious attacks and human error, a more decentralized, or shared approach to cloud computing will emerge? As more people and businesses adopt cloud computing, providers will undoubtedly begin building more data centers to handle increasing workloads. Once this occurs, data copying / sharing customer storage accounts across multiple centers is the next logical step to assure uninterrupted service.

Let’s not jump to conclusions here…
Once again, we shouldn’t immediately blame Amazon’s cloud computing infrastructure for service and power-related failures, especially when facing freak events such as the recent heat wave. I’m sure there were also a number of IT firms and cloud computing providers who were also experiencing major issues as well; singling out Amazon in the midst of this mess just seems silly.

Is your organization and IT department prepared for cloud computing adoption / transition?  
It’s been said thousands of times by hundreds of tech gurus and bloggers – cloud computing is going to replace traditional IT. If your organization is reliant on in-house IT services and/or web-delivered services / products, you are going to have to face up to the fact that cloud computing will affect you and your competition. But this isn’t a bad thing; through cloud computing you’ll have more options and possibilities at increasingly lower costs of operation.  What’s the best way to prepare for the inevitable cloud computing adoption wave, you ask? Affordable and technically thorough cloud computing e-learning is the way to go. Get your entire IT department trained and certified in one of many cloud computing disciplines today! Group rate discounts are available!

Despite service outages and security issues, a majority of people remain optimistic about Cloud Computing

Despite service outages and security issues, a majority of people remain optimistic about Cloud Computing

 

Virtually everyone is using some form of cloud computing these days, be it in a professional capacity or merely for entertainment. It has infiltrated our video delivery services, email, favorite websites…. if you can name it, cloud computing is probably already there or soon to be. Yet despite the apparent cloud takeover, everything seems fine. In other words, society hasn’t collapsed, websites haven’t experienced rolling failures, and security issues aren’t as prevalent or disparaging as some would have you believe. Truth be told, people and businesses are more connected and empowered than ever before thanks to cloud technologies.

The question is, despite clear evidence to the contrary, why is it that fear of cloud computing is given such authority? Arguably, fear has spread because there are those among us who like to prey upon others, spreading discord simply because they can. The fact of the matter is that a great number of people have already accepted that cloud computing will become a central form of technology in the future. Likewise, some people don’t like change and will fight it tooth and nail, even if it will clearly benefit them in the long run. Of course you also have those who might seek to capitalize, or cash in on the fear of others; telling them about the myriad ways in which their data might be compromised just to sell them on their solution.

In spite of cloud fear-mongering, most people are ready for some positive change. More and more people are waking up to the possibilities inherent in cloud computing. For example, on one end of the spectrum you have technologies which allow individuals and businesses to essentially accomplish more at a faster rate while spending less. Add this to the fact that (according to certain major scientific groups) we are facing environmental, energy and resource-based challenges, and you could say that cloud computing is almost a necessity.

In a way, cloud computing is rewriting the book when it comes to what comprises networking, IT and general computing. Hardware is becoming virtualized through cloud computing and individual infrastructures and user computers are fast becoming remotely accessible network-based services. These concepts go hand-in-hand with the idea that our entire society is becoming increasingly connected.

If you’ve ever attended or listened to some of the talks or lectures being given by some of Silicon Valley’s top gurus, then you’ll know what is meant by the term “connected”. Many of these people created the technologies which are driving everything you use every day, along with that which drives the businesses, corporations, governments and universities which have made your current lifestyle and viewpoint possible. Many of these individuals see a future in which all devices are interconnected and are able to access pools of shared data. Cloud computing is a giant step toward realizing the potential inherent in a more truly connected world.

For businesses, the first step toward increasing their capabilities is to put forth a solid plan which will allow them to smoothly transition into cloud computing. Strangely enough, one of the areas which many organizations often fail to consider is that of cloud education. Specifically, businesses need to ensure that their IT and technically-minded employees are on a path toward attaining some form of cloud computing training or certification. Armed with personnel who understand how cloud computing works, businesses can take advantage of everything it has to offer while at the same time increasing their ability to thwart or manage risk.

However, there are some among us who are not going to get onboard the cloud no matter what benefits are offered or how affordable it is. These individuals are going to focus in on security issues and events like the recent heat wave-induced outages regardless of all the truly great things cloud computing is capable of. Of course, cloud computing is not perfect, but neither is traditional IT / networking.

Are we to believe that the traditional model for IT is superior in terms of security when compared with that of cloud computing? From a statistical point of view it could be argued that traditional IT is not nearly as safe as cloud computing, and given the cloud’s age, current IT models certainly have a darker history when it comes to security-related issues.

Emerging (cloud security) concepts however, will put an end to the great cloud security debate which is raging (read about the recent merger between Joyent and GuardTime for more information about that). In the end, it is extremely likely that time will redeem cloud computing and render all of the current negative chatter insolvent.

Data auditing, the European Commission and the state of Cloud Computing in EU Countries

Data auditing, the European Commission & the state of Cloud Computing in E.U. Countries Cloud Computing in EU Countries

 

While it’s pretty clear that the countries of the E.U. are not able to agree on much of anything, there is one area in which they seem to be on the same page and that’s cloud computing. Recently the European Commission approved a measure to begin devoting time, energy and funds toward establishing a lightly regulated cloud computing market that is capable of servicing the 27 nations in the E.U.

Once again, one of the major roadblocks slowing down adoption is security (not to mention, cost). It seems that many individuals in the E.U. feel somewhat apprehensive about storing information in US-based data centers. This is likely due to the fact that, under such legislation as the Patriot Act (and others) their data could be accessed by the US government. Of course this is all speculation on their part, and it could be argued that those who fear any type of oversight might be engaging in less-than-wholesome business practices, however this is pure speculation.

So, how does data auditing play into all of this, you ask? Well, for those that don’t know, data auditing is concerned with monitoring data for quality as it travels to and from its destination(s) in accordance with the business practices of an organization. Likewise, data auditing is a continuous process, meaning that it is something which should be performed regularly. Recently it was revealed that, under a certain agreement with E.U. countries, remote cloud service providers might be responsible for providing data auditing services for their European customers. Other suggestions like “self-policing” (where countries would be responsible for policing and monitoring their own data remotely) have also been put forth as well.

At the end of the day the issue of data auditing between cloud provider and user is an issue of control; who has it and what that entails. The European Commission is concerned that becoming reliant on remote or foreign cloud computing services will lead to a loss of control on their part. Additionally, there is the issue of transparency; in other words, the E.U. commission also feels that a lack of information about the infrastructure and services they are using might place them at risk for unknown variables and attacks. These are extremely valid concerns, but with the proper security measures they can be easily overcome. The commission has already put together a number of recommendations which they feel will ensure proper cloud use and operation:

  • Providers must meet certain standards and obligations to be eligible for E.U. business (E.U. data privacy regime)
  • Location lists detailing where data will be processed in any event
  • Data is only accessible by authorized parties (no exceptions)
  • Contracts can be immediately terminated if any unapproved changes are made
  • Cloud providers are held accountable for cross-border data transfers
  • Data auditing rights are withheld by the E.U. countries / customers
  • All sub-contractors (subsequent service providers) must be identified and also be able to adhere to privacy standards

Aside from these qualms, a great number of businesses as well as the European Commission itself are very eager and enthusiastic about cloud computing adoption. They see this as an opportunity to both boost their technological image / capabilities while at the same time strengthening the European Union itself. However, it could be argued that the Europeans are simply seeing the successes being garnered by US businesses as a result of cloud adoption and want a piece of the action. It’s no secret that business-centric cloud computing adoption is on the rise; some experts have even recently stated that we are nearing the crucial 50% adoption mark. This of course brings us to a very important point; how well prepared is your business for cloud adoption? Regardless of how well thought out your plans are, cloud computing training and/or certification programs should be on your list of things to check out in the very near future (if you haven’t done so already).

Why would the Countries and Commission of the E.U. be interested in pushing for cloud adoption at this time? The sovereign debt crisis the Europe is not only hurting government and individuals, it is also seriously affecting businesses. Since cloud computing can increase efficiency and capabilities while cutting costs, it’s only logical that more and more E.U. businesses are eager to jump on board as quickly as possible. Through cloud computing many of these organizations might be able to increase production and capabilities, and in effect help create the much needed growth required to combat rampant debt accumulation. It’s simply too early to tell what effect a more widespread cloud adoption by E.U. businesses will have on the E.U. economy as a whole, but who in their right mind would argue that it’s not a step in the right direction?

Cloud Computing and Chrome browser

Cloud Computing courtesy of the Chrome browser

The Pano Logic Cloud System is basically a desktop computer you access via the Chrome browser

 

There’s good news on the horizon for businesses that prefer to perform their daily duties via online services (or already do). Pano Logic, a company focused on providing virtualization services, has rolled out a new system for use with Google’s Chrome browser which may very well revolutionize cloud computing for a great number of businesses. Cloud Computing and Chrome browser

The Pano system for Cloud is essentially a type of service which companies can use to cheaply establish a network of virtual desktop computers. What is meant by “virtual desktop computers”, you might be wondering? Basically, Pano’s cloud service allows an organization to set up and access hundreds of remotely accessible, fully-functional computers at extremely attractive prices. These virtualized computers are accessed via the internet and comprise all the hardware, OS, and software needed in order to constitute a fully functioning individual machine. Accessible via the Chrome browser, the Pano system for Cloud is more-or-less a platform for running apps and services, many of which are deployed via Google or Microsoft.

What’s the big benefit of Pano’s cloud system?  
Businesses that typically have several hundred individual terminals, users or machines running to facilitate their operation will (under the Pano system for Cloud) be able to trim their costs down to nearly unimaginable lows. According to their site, you only need to download their virtual client software and pay the pay the server license fee ($999) in order to get started. What’s more, once you pay the fee, you will be able to add an infinite number of endpoints; so, for example, if your company requires around 300 or more machines, each machine will end up costing less than $4. What’s more, you can actually download the software and try it out for free for 60 days. Of course there will also be other paid apps or services which you will want to add in the future, but the basics and beyond are covered in the initial $999 cost.

With a system like Pano’s, businesses can significantly cut their IT and tech budgets without having to sacrifice functionality. Just think about it, no more costs associated with software licenses, OS upgrades, annual hardware upgrades, or maintenance of extensive on-site resources. Simply put, Pano’s cloud system is going to be a blessing for quite a number of businesses and institutions. Does this mean that you can eliminate your entire IT department now?  Hardly; even businesses who are very gung-ho about cloud computing should (and are probably going to need to) keep knowledgeable and dedicated IT personnel on-site. The question is, how well prepared are these individuals for dealing with cloud computing technology?

If your IT team is somewhat unfamiliar with the ins and outs of the cloud, the easiest way to change that is through e-learning certification and training.  Such programs prepare professionals for the types of challenges and scenarios they will likely encounter when servicing or maintaining cloud computing infrastructure. Likewise, understanding how cloud models and architecture work will allow these same individuals to devise more creative solutions and uses for cloud technologies.

Who might want to avoid the Pano system for Cloud?
The Pano system for Cloud is not a completely open form of virtualization; it’s more like a secure platform for running highly developed apps and services. True VDI’s (or Virtual Desktop Infrastructures) are able to deploy an organization’s custom or legacy software – which is often critical to their entire business operation. Pano’s system isn’t designed for incorporating these types of items, so those institutions which rely on specialized software should probably employ the Pano system in a limited capacity or look elsewhere entirely. Also, those companies which require portable computing will discover that the Pano system for Cloud is not the absolute best choice.

As previously stated, the businesses that will get the most mileage out of the Pano cloud system are going to be those who are already utilizing a similar type of IT / computing / networking infrastructure. If, for instance, a business is utilizing a number of Google apps in a “legacy-like” capacity, then the Pano system will work wonderfully. Basically, the usefulness of the Pano system for Cloud all comes down to whether or not an organization requires customized or individualized software to run their internal / external operations.

Big opportunity for balancing the budgets of certain businesses
Organizations which are in a position to benefit from what the Pano Cloud system has to offer will undoubtedly find great value in its ability to slash ownership costs and annual tech budgets. Given that many businesses routinely invest very large sums into their IT departments (as well as hardware and software), solutions like what is being offered by Pano should be most welcome (this is especially true given the ongoing global economic strife).  Simply put, if you are in a position to capitalize on what Pano’s cloud system can offer, you shouldn’t hesitate to check it out; after all, there is a free 60-day trial.

There’s good news on the horizon for businesses that prefer to perform their daily duties via online services (or already do).