Cloud Computing (Cambridge International IGCSE ICT)
Exam board Cambridge International · IGCSEUpdated 2024-06-14
Spec point —
4.1.3
Cloud Computing
What is cloud storage?
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Cloud storage is a term to describe long-term (secondary) storage of data that resides in a remote location, accessible only via a wide area network (Internet)
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Data is stored on remote servers, typically using magnetic storage (HDD), but increasingly using solid state (SSD)
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The three types of cloud storage are:
- Public cloud - The customer and the cloud storage provider are different companies
- Private cloud - The customer and the cloud storage provider are a single organisation
- Hybrid cloud - Combines both public and private cloud options and allows for sensitive data to remain private whilst providing public cloud services for less sensitive information
Advantages and disadvantages of cloud storage
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Data can be accessed from anywhere | A stable internet connection is required to use cloud storage |
| Data can be accessed by anyone with the relevant permissions, making it quick to share files and collaborate with others | Storing data in the cloud may be vulnerable to security breaches |
| Data can be accessed on any device with an internet connection | The user is dependent on the storage provider for the availability and reliability of its services |
| Allows customers to increase or decrease their storage capacity as needed | Should the company dissolve or cease to exist, all cloud data may be lost |
| Providers often use multiple servers to store and backup data, reducing the risk of data loss due to hardware failure | As the amount of storage or bandwidth required increases, the service may become expensive over time |
| Providers offer advanced security features, such as data encryption **and multi-factor authentication multi-factor authentication, to protect user data from unauthorised access | |
| There is** no need to hire specialist staff as IT services being provided by the cloud storage provider |
Worked Example Explain the difference between cloud storage and local storage
[2]
Answer
Final answer: Cloud storage involves storing data on remote servers accessed via the internet [1]
Final answer: While local storage refers to storing data on physical devices like hard drives or flash drives [1]
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