GCSE Computer Science (OCR)

Topic Summaries

COMPUTER SYSTEMS: Networks

The cloud

  • The cloud is a remote service provision meaning it delivers computing services over the internet instead of locally, hosted by worldwide data centres.
  • Common services include data storage, software apps (SaaS), processing power, and hosting (e.g. Google Drive/Docs, Netflix, Dropbox, AWS).
Advantages Disadvantages
  • Access files and apps anywhere with internet
  • Scalable, secure back-ups/storage
  • Always updated software 
  • No need for local IT maintenance
  • Requires reliable internet
  • Less control over security 
  • Potential for hacking
  • Unclear data ownership
  • Ongoing subscription costs

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