Cloud Technologies

Cloud Computing is a computing model that enables the storage of data, documents, software, and applications on a virtual repository hosted on the internet and provides online access to this content. This model features a relatively simple management structure that allows users to share server resources. Cloud technology, which is based on the sharing of software and information from central sources, encompasses all services that facilitate the distribution of shared information across computing devices. It also operates on a principle that allows instant network-based access without any time or location constraints, following predefined procedures.

History

The emergence of cloud technology has been shaped by rapid advancements in information and communication technologies. Technological progress, innovations in software and hardware, and the development of web services have contributed to the widespread adoption of this model over time. The flexible nature of cloud computing has enabled rapid adaptation to demand, thereby expanding its application areas.

Although different definitions of cloud computing exist in the literature, it is noted that systems used prior to this technology continue to exist as viable alternatives today. This indicates that while cloud computing shares a similar operational logic with earlier systems, it differs significantly in its applications and approach.

During its development, the architecture of cloud computing evolved through the integration of components such as server infrastructure, power sources, data centers, and platform management. The accelerating pace of technological change has positioned cloud computing as a technology expected to further enhance its impact in the near future.

Core Concepts

The core concepts of cloud technology consist of elements that define the structure and operation of processing, storing, and sharing data and applications in online environments. Within this scope, the system encompasses all services that enable the distribution of shared information across computing devices. The storage of data on virtual servers forms the fundamental mechanism that allows users to access this data over a network.

In cloud computing, the shared use of server resources, internet-based access to infrastructure, and network-based management are key components. Moreover, this structure is based on the principle of delivering hardware resources as services. In systems that facilitate online information sharing, software, data, and applications are delivered through a centralized structure and can be accessed independently of user devices.

Architectural Structure

The architectural structure of cloud technology consists of infrastructure components and the platform and application layers that operate on top of them. The infrastructure layer includes processes related to the management of servers, power sources, electronic and mechanical units, and data centers. In this layer, electrical data transmission, maintenance, support, and operational activities are carried out.

The platform layer, situated above the infrastructure, includes cloud operating systems and management tools running on the hardware. This layer enables the integration of user applications into the cloud environment.

The top layer of the architecture is the service layer, which provides user interfaces similar to desktop environments and allows access to applications. In this layer, the cloud system performs functions such as managing tools, enabling application usage, and supporting customer-side processes.

Storage Services

In cloud technology, storage services refer to online structures that enable data to be stored on virtual servers and accessed via the internet. In these services, all applications, programs, and documents are stored in a centralized storage area, allowing users to access this data from any device.

The storage structure is built on a system that ensures continuous online accessibility of data. This structure reduces physical hardware requirements and encompasses functions related to data sharing, storage, and backup when needed. Additionally, storage services provide a framework that allows the enhancement of data transfer speed and storage capacity based on the performance of cloud systems.

Service Models

In cloud technology, service models form a layered structure that defines the types of services accessible to users. These models encompass different usage patterns based on the provision of hardware resources as services.

In the structures included within these service models, users can access applications, platform components, or infrastructure resources via the internet. These models are distinguished by their level of management and scope of use. In each model, software, platform, or infrastructure components are provided by centralized systems, and access occurs through a network-based structure.

Cloud-Based Systems

Cloud-based systems consist of structures in which data and applications are executed through virtual servers hosted on the internet. In these systems, software, data, and applications are delivered through a centralized structure and accessed over a network independently of user devices.

These systems operate on a framework that enables the shared use of server resources and manages operations via the internet. The delivery of applications and hardware resources within the cloud environment creates a structure that allows users to remotely access their own infrastructure.

Service Providers

In cloud technology, service providers are enterprises that deliver cloud computing infrastructure, platforms, and related applications to users. These organizations make software, storage space, and processing capacity available over the network for use in the cloud environment.

Service providers establish the structure that enables user access to these systems by assuming responsibility for managing the provided resources. In this context, enterprises perform functions such as operating infrastructure components, running platforms, and making cloud-based applications available for use.

Application Areas

The application areas of cloud technology are shaped by its ability to store, process, and share data in online environments. Advancements in web services, software components, and hardware infrastructure have enabled cloud-based applications to be adopted across various sectors.

This technology offers a preferred structure for individuals and organizations in data storage, backup, and sharing processes. Its online access feature enables users to reach data without physical hardware, creating functionality across diverse usage environments. Cloud systems are widely used in areas such as managing business processes, running applications, and storing data.

Cloud-Based Digital Entrepreneurship

Cloud-based digital entrepreneurship is a form of entrepreneurship that emerged alongside the digital transformation process, where business models are built upon cloud systems. This structure has evolved with the advancement of web technologies and has created an ecosystem expanded by integrating digital components such as data analytics, mobile applications, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence into business processes.

Cloud systems have become one of the fundamental elements of flexible and data-driven operations in digital entrepreneurship models. In this context, cloud technology provides the necessary infrastructure for online service delivery, data-driven decision-making processes, and adaptable business structures across multiple platforms. For enterprises operating in the digital environment, cloud systems serve as a fundamental component for scaling business operations, sustaining data management, and running online applications.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The advantages of cloud technology lie in online systems that allow data to be stored in an accessible format over the internet, enable instant updates, and permit the expansion of storage capacity. The shared use of server resources allows users to access services without bearing hardware costs. This structure makes data storage, backup, and sharing operations possible at low costs.

The disadvantages of cloud technology arise from the need to ensure security due to data being hosted in online environments. In this context, encryption methods must be applied to protect data from unauthorized access. The dependence of data security on the technical and managerial measures provided by service providers can create system dependency. Additionally, since cloud-based structures rely on internet connectivity, disruptions in connectivity can affect service continuity.

Security and Data Protection

In cloud technology, security and data protection encompass the methods and techniques applied during the storage and processing of personal data in online environments. Within this framework, encryption-based methods are used to protect data from unauthorized access. Encryption is a fundamental practice that ensures secure protection of data while it is stored or transmitted in the cloud environment.

The implementation of data security in cloud computing infrastructure depends on the technical and managerial measures provided by service providers. In this context, system management, access control, and the preservation of data integrity are key components of the security process. Protecting data in online storage structures is one of the essential requirements for the sustainable and reliable use of cloud-based systems.