Class 8 Cloud Computing

 

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1. Cloud Computing

Definition:
Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services (like servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics) over the Internet (“the cloud”) instead of using local computers or personal devices.

Example:

• Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, iCloud.

Advantages:

1. Cost-effective: No need to buy expensive hardware or software.
2. Accessibility: Access data from anywhere with an internet connection.
3. Scalability: Easily increase or decrease resources as needed.
4. Automatic updates: Service providers update software automatically.

Disadvantages:

1. Internet dependency: Cannot access data offline.
2. Security risks: Data is stored on remote servers, so risk of hacking.
3. Limited control: Users have less control over cloud infrastructure.

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2. Categories of Cloud Computing

A. IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service)

Definition: Provides virtualized computing resources over the internet. You can rent servers, storage, and networking.
Example: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure
Use: Hosting websites, storage, virtual servers

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B. PaaS (Platform as a Service)

Definition: Provides a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications without worrying about the infrastructure.
Example: Google App Engine, Microsoft Azure App Services
Use: Developing apps without setting up servers

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C. SaaS (Software as a Service)

Definition: Provides software applications over the internet on a subscription basis. No installation required.
Example: Gmail, Google Drive, Microsoft 365
Use: Access and use software via a web browser

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3. Google Drive – Step by Step

A. Open Google Drive

1. Go to drive.google.com.
2. Sign in using your Google account (Gmail).

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B. Create a Folder in Drive

1. Click “New” button on the left-hand side.
2. Select “Folder”.
3. Give your folder a name and click “Create”.

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C. Copy and Paste in Drive

1. Right-click on a file or folder you want to copy.
2. Select “Make a copy”.
3. Drag the copy to any folder you want.

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D. Upload a File in Drive

1. Click “New” → “File upload”.
2. Select the file from your computer.
3. The file will appear in your Drive.

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E. Delete a File/Folder in Drive

1. Right-click on the file/folder.
2. Select “Remove”.
3. The file goes to Trash. You can permanently delete it from Trash.

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One Best Step to Share

1. Right-click the file or folder → Click “Share” → Enter email → Set permission → Click “Send” ✅

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Other Cloud Storage Services

Cloud Storage	Description	Example / Use
Dropbox	Stores files online, syncs across devices	Upload documents, photos, videos; share with others
OneDrive	Microsoft’s cloud storage integrated with Windows and Office	Store Office files; access anywhere
iCloud	Apple’s cloud storage for iPhone, iPad, Mac	Backup photos, documents, app data
Amazon Drive / AWS S3	Amazon’s storage service	Store large files, host websites, enterprise storage
Box	Cloud storage with collaboration features	Business and team file sharing
Mega	Cloud storage with high free storage (50GB free)	Store large files securely
pCloud	Secure cloud storage with lifetime plans	Store and share files easily
Google Photos	Specialized for photos and videos	Backup and organize images and videos

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Key Points about Cloud Storage Devices

1. Access from anywhere – All files can be accessed from internet-connected devices.
2. Sync across devices – Changes made on one device reflect everywhere.
3. Sharing – Most services allow sharing files/folders with others.
4. Security – Files are stored safely on the cloud provider’s servers.

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