Cloud computing, mobile computing and future trends
Cloud computing rents computing power and storage over the internet; mobile computing puts it in our pockets; AI and IoT shape what comes next.
Cloud service models
| Model | What you rent | Example |
|---|---|---|
| SaaS (software as a service) | Ready-made software used through a browser or app, paid per user | Microsoft 365, Gmail, Zoom |
| PaaS (platform as a service) | A platform to build and run your own applications | Google App Engine |
| IaaS (infrastructure as a service) | Servers, storage and networks | Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure virtual machines |
How cloud storage works
Cloud computing: benefits and risks
Cloud deployment models
| Model | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Public cloud | Shared by many customers of a provider |
| Private cloud | Used by one organisation only |
| Hybrid cloud | A mix: sensitive data private, other work public |
Mobile computing
- Devices: smartphones, tablets, laptops, wearables.
- Wireless links: Wi-Fi, 4G and 5G, Bluetooth; GPS for location.
- Business uses: mobile banking, ride-hailing, field sales staff taking orders, mobile payments.
- Issues: small screens, battery life, lost devices, unsafe public Wi-Fi.
Future trends
| Trend | Meaning | Business use |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial intelligence (AI) | Systems that learn from data, predict and generate content | Chatbots, fraud detection, demand forecasting |
| Internet of Things (IoT) | Everyday objects with sensors connected to the internet | Smart meters, tracking temperature in a store or factory |
| Big data and analytics | Analysing very large data sets | Customer buying patterns |
| Blockchain | A shared, tamper-resistant digital ledger | Supply-chain tracking, digital currencies |
| 5G networks | Very fast mobile networks with little delay | Live video, connected machines |
| Augmented and virtual reality | Digital images over the real world, or a fully digital world | Training, product demonstrations |
Many Sri Lankan firms use cloud email and office software (SaaS), and customers use mobile apps such as PickMe for rides and food and pay with eZ Cash or LankaQR: everyday examples of cloud and mobile computing.
Short answer: “What is SaaS? Give an example.” Software as a service: ready-made software used over the internet for a subscription, e.g. Microsoft 365 or Gmail.
Structured question: “Explain the benefits and risks of cloud computing for a business.” Benefits: pay as you use, scalability, access anywhere, automatic updates and backups. Risks: needs internet, security and privacy, provider dependence, ongoing fees.
Essay: “Discuss recent developments in computer technology and future trends, with business examples.” Explain cloud computing and storage (models, benefits, risks), mobile computing, then AI, IoT, big data, blockchain and 5G, with examples.
Cloud = S-P-I: Software (use it), Platform (build on it), Infrastructure (rent the hardware).