Cloud computing is the next big thing in Internet-based computing, which provides the means for delivering ICT resources as a service. Internet-of-Things (IoT) can benefit from the scalability, performance and pay-as-you-go nature of cloud computing infrastructures.

Cloud computing basics

Cloud computing is the next evolutionary step in Internet-based computing, which provides the means for delivering ICT resources as a service. The ICT resources that can be delivered through cloud computing model include computing power, computing infrastructure (e.g., servers and/or storage resources), applications, business processes and more. Cloud computing infrastructures and services have the following characteristics, which typically differentiate them from similar (distributed computing), technologies:

1. Cloud computing services can scale upwards during high periods of demand and downward during periods of lighter demand.

2. In cloud computing, both provisioning and de-provisioning of resources can take place automatically.

3. Cloud services are accessible via APIs, which enable applications and data sources to communicate with each other.

4. Cloud services are associated with a utility-based pay-as-you-go model.

5. Cloud computing provides an integrated approach for managing physical environments and IT systems.

6. Cloud computing infrastructures offer security functionalities towards safeguarding critical data and fulfilling customers’ compliance requirements.

Cloud computing and IoT, a match made in tech-world

The advent of cloud computing has acted as a catalyst for the development and deployment of scalable IoT business models and applications. Therefore, IoT and cloud are nowadays two very closely affiliated future internet technologies, which go hand-in-hand in non-trivial IoT deployments. IoT has practically taken many industries around the world including precision agriculture, healthcare, energy, transportation, building management and the likes. The connectivity options by internet cloud services are increasing by huge amounts for electronic engineers and application developers. Work is being done on products and systems of the IoT which will help in greater development with ease.

Greater connectivity provided by cloud services help the devices to provide valuable information by reaching out and acting upon the world. The devices connected are not limited to certain devices which organizations own, but can span from personal devices every individual uses to the big ones through internet cloud services.

IoT challenges

The IoT is gaining acceptance, but some companies remain hesitant to implement it. The best way to confront them is to first understand what these challenges are.

1. Security

Security is one of the forefront challenges. The question is how do you keep things safe? Any platform that is connected — from vending machines to alarm systems — pose the risk of being insecure and open to hackers. With IoT, security measures differ from traditional IT systems.

2. Procurement

We have to think about how local and state government can work with the private sector and create win-win situations. Currently, there are many models for subsidizing public-private partnerships. What’s important is to understand what works specifically for your agency.

3. Regulation

Regulation is difficult to address when there isn’t a concrete example. Instead, we have to understand what works and what doesn’t work. The question is how we can move on without creating an impact on the general society. Innovation and regulation need to go hand-in-hand. People working in both areas have to work together.

4. Workforce

While finding people is difficult, the second part of the challenge is changing the mentality of the current workforce — especially those in the upper levels. It can be hard to show them the opportunities of IoT projects. In terms of workforce issues, enthusiasm and excitement needs to be a priority, too. Everyone needs to be involved and skills need to intermingle.

5. Broadband & Infrastructure

In the context of IoT, infrastructure can be a broad term. It can mean roads and bridges, but it also deals with other critical systems. For people dipping their toes in IoT, it’s less about explaining IoT and more about understanding these challenges that agencies face. Today, ideas and things that run on IoT have become more tangible. From artificial intelligence to data analytics, all future technologies are a part of IoT.

Cloud Computing from ADYPU’s School of Information Technology

Cloud computing is revolutionizing the way the datasets are stored and analyzed. Our focused courses have been designed to combat the shortage of highly skilled graduates in the IT industry, which means excellent employment prospects.

As the computing sector is constantly evolving, so too are our courses to ensure you’re well-prepared for the world of work when you graduate. We regularly consult with industry experts to make sure that what we’re teaching you is relevant and meets best practice standards.

Get the skills you need to make the most of cloud technology with ADYPU.