Linda's Line - Sep '08

Cloud Computing is Here, and You’re Already Using it!

When we first started hearing about cloud computing 3 or 4 years ago it was referred to as SaaS or Software as a Service. They talked about "renting" Microsoft Office over the internet instead of buying a license to install it on your computer or buying a "subscription" to the product.

Because the symbol or icon for the internet is a cloud in the techie world, somebody started calling it Cloud Computing and so another new unintelligible label reference was born. Techies and Communications people who build or design pc networks and communication networks understand the reference, but most normal people will have no idea where this label came from.

The MLS is an example of this type of computing so in essence, the REALTOR® world has been a leader in this type of computing ever since they made MLS systems available via the internet! Tax record programs are another good example of cloud computing. If you access the program through a web browser to run it then it is "cloud computing!" If you have ever used the online tax product from Turbo Tax, that is also an example of "CC" or Software as a Service.

Some people think that Cloud Computing is a forerunner to Big Brother, where the government will be able to watch or "see" everything we do. In many respects, this is already true as they can "capture" traffic that passes through internet routers and servers already. However, as long as we make sure that our government keeps reasonable privacy laws in place, I don't think the average, law-abiding person should have to worry about Big Brother looking over his shoulder.

Outside of the US, our laws do not apply. Please be careful what you send in emails or text messages to other countries. Unless you know for certain that all messages are passed through private company networks or you pay to have a secure or satellite cellular phone on both ends, your communications are subject to being captured by an anonymous third party. This is also true of your wireless networks in your home as well as domestic cell phones and even wireless phones in your homes. If you do not have encryption turned on for your wireless routers at home, then you are wide-open for digital eaves-dropping. While encryption means you have to do a little more to get your computers onto your home network, it’s the only thing slowing down the thieves who want to rob you blind. Passwords are a good thing to have!