RSAWEB is the popular Internet Services Provider that specialises in Internet access, hosting and enterprise-class data centre solutions. Co-founder and Director at RSAWEB as well as Cloud evangelist, Mark Slingsby, gave us his definition of Cloud computing and how it differs from Dropbox. We also find out what the security risks are of having data stored overseas.

Hi Mark. How would you define Cloud computing in one sentence?

Cloud enables the purchasing of flexible computing services usually via a self service model.

In your opinion, is Cloud computing secure? Are there any safety concerns?

Yes, Cloud versus older systems requires the same considerations for security. If anything the move to Cloud has heightened the need for effective security controls. Customers do need to be concerned about where their data is stored. If your data is stored in the US, the US government has a legal right to seize and search your data.

What is the difference between Cloud servers and enterprise cloud?

We offer different infrastructure as a service cloud facilities and they cater to different market segments. Our Cloud Servers are available to anyone that wants simple, effective on demand cloud servers. Our Enterprise Cloud, naturally suits an enterprise better as it allows the transitioning of legacy applications to the cloud with minimal hassle.

How does Cloud computing differ from other data storage systems like DropBox?

Dropbox is a service that runs on top of Cloud infrastructure. It’s called Software as a Service. RSAWEB provides both Infrastructure as a Service, such as Cloud Servers and Enterprise Cloud; as well as Software as a Service applications like Hosted Exchange, Hosted Zimbra, Cloud Backup and so on.

Does Could computing differ when working on a mobile, laptop, desktop or tablet? If so, how?

One word. Mobility. If you are consuming the service, the Cloud really enables a user to be completely mobile allowing simple use and storage of data like email, files on the Cloud and giving access to it from anywhere.

Thank you for your bit-sized explanations, Mark. You can follow Mark on Twitter here, and RSAWEB here. Check out their offerings on Cloud computing here.

Read more posts by Wendy Tayler

Wendy is the Editor in Chief at Heavy Chef. After 3 years cooking up a storm at UNISA studying English and Communications, Wendy decided to mesh her passion for writing with her love of digital. She firmly believes the world is moving into the online sphere and can be found writing, tracking down great names for interviews, or singing her heart out at the World Wide Creative studio.

Follow Wendy on Twitter

Related posts:

1. Microsoft’s biggest fear: Cheap computing!
2. A recipe for digital security: cooking up a website security certificate
3. Why You Should Hire Smart – Founder Of Distilled, Will Critchlow, Explains
4. Heavy Chef Session March 2010: Focusing on Security
5. Heavy Chef March in Cape Town: Focusing on Security