Cloud

The "Cloud" is essentially a type of virtual storage space and data center on the internet. Instead of storing data and programs on your own computer or in your office, they are stored on large servers accessible via the internet. You then simply access this data and these programs via your web browser or an app, as if they were stored locally. It's like a huge external hard drive and a powerful computer that aren't located with you, but "on the internet".

Features

• Access from anywhere: You can access your data and programs no matter where you are or what device (computer, tablet, smartphone) you use, as long as you have internet.
• No self-maintenance: You don't have to worry about server maintenance, software updates, or data security. The provider does that for you.
• Flexibly adaptable: Capacity (storage space, processing power) can be easily adjusted to your needs. If you need more, you get more; if you need less, you pay less.
• Cost savings: Since you don't have to buy expensive servers or hire your own IT staff for maintenance, costs can be saved. You often only pay for what you actually use.
• Security: Large cloud providers like Microsoft invest heavily in the security of their data centers and data.

Example

Imagine you use online banking or store your photos with an online storage service. If you do that, you're already using the cloud! Your bank data or your photos are not on your PC, but on the secure servers of the bank or service provider somewhere in the world. You simply access them with your smartphone or computer.

For companies, this means that software like CRM systems no longer needs to run on its own server in the office. Instead, they are operated in the cloud. This allows employees to access all important company data and programs from home, the office, or on the go to do their work. This makes companies more flexible and efficient, as they don't have to worry about the underlying technology.