Cloud Computing An Empowering Technology: Architecture, Applications and Challenges

Cloud computing is an emerging technology that supports wide range of applications. The low cost of cloud computing and its scalability advantages make it the driving force for small businesses, especially in the developing world. Cloud computing deploys numerous applications which include business, data storage, backup, education, entertainment, and management-based applications. It has a huge potential to reach millions of users. There are several types of service delivery, but the main are Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS). This paper explores the different concepts involved in cloud computing, importance of clouds and highlights various opportunities. Paper also presents key points that why this technology needs to be successful. Finally, it addresses various issues, challenges in cloud computing that it should deal with.