Cloud Computing - JSS 2 Note

Cloud Computing

Subject	Digital Technologies
Class	JSS 2 (Basic 8)
Term	First Term
Week	8
Topic	Cloud Computing
Subtopics	Meaning of Cloud Storage; Examples of Cloud Storage Services; Advantages and Safety
Duration	80 Minutes

1. Introduction

In the past, people mainly stored their files on physical devices such as hard disks, flash drives, memory cards and CDs. Today, files can also be stored on computers connected to the Internet. This method of storing and accessing files through Internet-based services is known as cloud storage.

Cloud computing has become an important part of modern digital technology because it allows people to use computing services without depending entirely on the storage capacity of their personal devices.

Key Idea: Cloud computing allows users to access computing resources and services through the Internet, while cloud storage allows users to save and access their files using Internet-based storage services.

2. Meaning of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is the use of computing resources and services over the Internet instead of relying only on a local computer or device.

These resources may include storage, applications, processing power and other computer services. A user can access the services from a computer, tablet or smartphone when an Internet connection is available.

Examples of Cloud Services

• Cloud storage
• Online document services
• Online backup services
• Web-based applications
• Online collaboration tools

3. Meaning of Cloud Storage

Cloud storage is a service that allows users to save digital files on remote servers that can be accessed through the Internet.

Instead of keeping all files only on the hard disk of a computer, a user can upload files to a cloud storage service. The files can then be accessed from another Internet-connected device when the user signs in to the appropriate account.

For example, a student can save a school assignment in cloud storage at home and later access the same assignment from a school computer.

4. Examples of Cloud Storage Services

There are many cloud storage services available today. Two common examples suitable for students to understand are Google Drive and Dropbox.

Cloud Storage Service	Description
Google Drive	An online storage service that allows users to store, organize, share and access files through the Internet.
Dropbox	A cloud storage service that allows users to store, synchronize and share files across supported devices.

Other Examples

• Microsoft OneDrive
• Apple iCloud
• Box

5. How Cloud Storage Works

Cloud storage works by transferring files from a user's device to remote computer servers operated by a cloud service provider.

The basic process is:

1. The user creates or selects a file.
2. The user signs in to a cloud storage service.
3. The file is uploaded to the cloud service.
4. The file is stored on remote servers.
5. The user can access the file through an Internet-connected device.

Example: A student writes an assignment on a laptop and uploads it to Google Drive. Later, the student can sign in to the same account on another computer and access the assignment.

6. Advantages of Cloud Storage

Cloud storage provides several benefits to individuals, students, schools and organisations.

Advantage	Explanation
Access from different devices	Files can be accessed from different Internet-connected devices.
Backup	Cloud storage can provide an additional copy of important files.
Easy sharing	Files and folders can be shared with other users.
Collaboration	Some cloud services allow several people to work on files or documents together.
Convenience	Users do not always need to carry physical storage devices such as flash drives.
Automatic synchronisation	Some services can keep files synchronised across supported devices.

7. Cloud Storage and Local Storage

Cloud storage and local storage are both used for keeping digital information, but they work differently.

Cloud Storage	Local Storage
Files are stored on remote servers.	Files are stored on a local device or storage medium.
Usually requires Internet access to access the service.	Files can normally be accessed without Internet access.
Can be accessed from different devices.	Access usually depends on the device or storage medium.
Examples include Google Drive and Dropbox.	Examples include hard disks, SSDs and flash drives.

8. Safety When Using Cloud Storage

Although cloud storage is useful, users must take steps to protect their accounts and information.

Important Safety Practices

• Use a strong and unique password.
• Do not share your password with other people.
• Sign out of your account when using a shared computer.
• Use two-step verification or multi-factor authentication where available.
• Be careful when sharing files and folders.
• Do not upload sensitive information to an account you do not control.
• Avoid opening suspicious links or files sent through messages or email.
• Keep your recovery information secure and up to date.

Remember: A cloud account should be treated like a personal digital space. Students should protect their login details and carefully control who can access their files.

9. Safe File Sharing

Cloud storage makes it easy to share files, but sharing should be done carefully. Before sharing a file, the user should check who will receive it and what level of access they have.

Access Level	Meaning
Viewer	The person can view the file but normally cannot change its contents.
Commenter	The person can view the file and may be allowed to add comments.
Editor	The person can make changes to the file.

Students should avoid giving editing permission to people who do not need it. They should also avoid making private files publicly available unnecessarily.

10. Class Activity

Activity:

1. Ask students to name three devices they use for storing files.
2. Ask students whether they have heard of Google Drive, Dropbox or another cloud service.
3. Demonstrate how a file can be uploaded to a cloud storage service.
4. Demonstrate how a stored file can be accessed from another device.
5. Discuss why passwords should not be shared with other people.

11. Summary

• Cloud computing provides computing services through the Internet.
• Cloud storage allows users to save and access files through the Internet.
• Google Drive and Dropbox are examples of cloud storage services.
• Cloud storage makes file access, sharing and backup more convenient.
• Users should protect their accounts with strong passwords and other security measures.
• Files should be shared carefully to prevent unauthorised access.

12. Evaluation

1. What is cloud computing?
2. What is cloud storage?
3. State two examples of cloud storage services.
4. State three advantages of cloud storage.
5. Give two differences between cloud storage and local storage.
6. State four safety practices when using cloud storage.
7. Why should users be careful when sharing files online?

13. Assignment

1. Explain the meaning of cloud storage and give three examples of cloud storage services.

2. State five advantages of using cloud storage.

3. List five safety rules that should be followed when using cloud storage services.

14. Quick Practice Quiz

1. Which of the following is an example of cloud storage?

A. Google Drive B. Keyboard C. Monitor D. Printer

2. What is one major advantage of cloud storage?

A. It prevents all computer viruses B. Files can be accessed from different devices C. It removes the need for passwords D. It works only without the Internet

3. Which of the following is a safe practice when using cloud storage?

A. Sharing your password with friends B. Making every file public C. Using a strong password D. Opening every unknown link