PART 1
PART 2
Diagram Discussion
My causal loop diagram aims to illustrate the application of Homomorphic Encryption (HE) in Cloud computing technology. “In cloud computing, fully homomorphic encryption is commonly touted as the holy grail of cloud security” (Gentry, 2009). The existence of periodic modifications with HE allows us to be aware of the limitations that still occur with every new modification. “With the wide application of cloud computing, the security of cloud platform has become one of the core issues of cloud computing, which restricts the development of cloud computing. Homomorphic encryption can directly process cipher text data, effectively ensuring the security of cloud user data” (Min Zhao, E. 2019). Therefore, my causal loop diagram (CLD) indicates variables that represent factors associated with CC and FHE.
The variables in my system are required to comprehend the functions of HE and its benefits and drawbacks. The balancing loop between users and data breaches is an important feedback loop. The very essence of HE is to be able to protect its users’ data through encryption methods, and data breaches undermine this goal. This feedback loop serves as the primary regulator of the system, cancelling the effect of the reinforcing loop and bringing it to equilibrium. The affordability of CC affects users, making more people interested in using it.
Another essential dynamic to consider is the unilateral directional flow between users’ data and the decreased encryption rate. Encrypted data bulked over time from the availability of more users’ data leads to computational overhead, which is the combination of excess or indirect computations; in this dynamic, each variable influences the other and hence indicates unilateral influence. One of HE’s significant limitations is computational overhead; this affects the encryption rate’s effectiveness and makes data more susceptible to attack. This unilateral flow allows us to see the negative consequence of implementing HE into this system.
Other relevant feedback loops would be R1, R2 and R3. They emphasize the exponential growth/increase from one to the other, which establishes a negative HE property leading to data breaches. They can also be positive reinforcing loops that help to indicate virtuous acts because CC and HE create storage capacity for users and offers data protection, respectively. They also indicate signs of proportionality, where if one were to go down, so would the other.
Users will be the primary stakeholders in my system because many other variables, such as data breaches and trust in the system, influence them. Users in my system are susceptible to the significant benefits and drawbacks my system provides. Remoulding cloud servers in cloud computers to increase the number of databases available will be a way of intervening to create desired change. As a result, user data is not stored in a single location, resulting in computational overhead. This improves the ethical outcomes for users because it is a way to manage the existing limitations, thus eliminating or managing data breaches and allowing users to trust this encryption method. My CLD spans the last five years because FHE was incorporated with CC. Because previous versions of HE could not perform specific tasks, the period is critical.
My diagram shows substantial delays between database capacity and a decreased encryption rate. These delays harm my system because they can quickly go unnoticed, making it hard for skilled labour to assess the issues and propose solutions. They also take time to impact the system negatively. An intervention intended to improve the system may be incorporating the optimum population theory, which is instead of allowing the maximum number of users to make use of a database that all require their data to be secured with HE, we allocate specific numbers of users that can be on a database at a particular time. The result of this is regulating data flow and minimizing overhead.
An archetype behaviour that is observed in this system is the tragedy of the commons. HE identifies as a commons because it is used by many and satisfies the criteria of being a commons because it has finitude, where there is a maximum level of consumption(usage) of this technology before its availability is maximized. It is also the source because users have their data secured. In my causal loop diagram, we observe that increasing the number of users over time can lead to computational overhead, which decreases HE’s effectiveness in time. This is where the tragedy exists. Therefore, it is necessary to implement strategies to maintain this commons by privatizing or regulating it.
Leverage points in the system are the existence of feedback loops, where the reinforcing loops cause an exponential increase in the use of the system and lead to a negative property. It is regulated by the balancing loop, where the number of users decreases due to more data breaches. All of which are vital components of my system.
PART 3
Application of Virtue Ethics.
Homomorphic encryption
Homomorphic encryption (HE) has proven to be an effective encryption method because of its mode of encryption that distinguishes it from standard encryption methods. However, despite this significant benefit, HE has also been observed to possess some drawbacks, which diminishes its effectiveness with its users. Recognizing that eudaimonia comes from a Greek word, which means happiness, Aristotle explains that happiness is more satisfying than satisfaction and that one must possess virtues (Van Zyl, 2019).
The main advantage of HE, which is to provide maximum data protection for its users, has a positive impact because we observe that through this means, individuals, organizations, and so on have the safety of their confidential data guaranteed due to the thorough processes that are involved in bringing this encryption method to fruition. After close observation over the years, we recognize the success of HE over other encryption methods. On the other hand, the main disadvantage of HE, which is the existence of limitations despite its modifications over time, concerns its users. This reduces users’ trust in this encryption method, calling its effectiveness into question. After observing its evolution over time, users may need more convincing that HE is the safest and most effective way to encrypt confidential data.
Perseverance
Perseverance is persistence in doing something despite difficulties or delays in achievement. It is a virtue helpful to engineers and computer scientists when making decisions based on HE, because it requires one to be resilient in their actions and working in the engineering field, one must be perseverant in their course of actions to produce the best result. Considering the rigorous activities engineers and computer scientists engage in, it is necessary to have this virtue when dealing with projects with a wide human and environmental impact. It is common to encounter challenges when working on a project like the implementation of HE; therefore, it is necessary to be aware that this task calls upon one’s optimism, effectiveness, and resilience.
Pertinacity/intransigence is an excess of perseverance, which is pursuing a goal/objective even when it is no longer worthwhile or becomes self-destructive. A lack of perseverance could be caused by laziness, which is a disinclination to act or exert oneself despite having the ability to act or exert oneself. Perseverance is the middle ground between these two extremes because we practice it while being aware of the ongoing effort required, the need for rest and rejuvenation, and when it is necessary to propose trying alternative methods to achieve the same goal.
Connecting the Two and Explaining How it Leads to Eudaimonia (The Universal Good or Human Flourishing)
Homomorphic encryption (HE) requires perseverance because it is necessary to develop the system’s capabilities and trust in users. HE has been worked upon for many years with limitations with every modification, yet people still consider it the safest way to secure private data. Engineers and computer scientists must incorporate this virtue prudently in their years of research and technology modifications as we observe the impact HE has on its users. The perseverance to create a system that functions optimally reflects the Aristotelian view of ethics by implications of practical wisdom and efficacy (Van Zyl, 2019). This virtuous decision dramatically impacts the eudaemonia of the users because it is necessary to consider what influences our technology has on human beings.
References
Ko, R., Choo, K. (2015). The cloud security ecosystems. Singress. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-801595-7.09989-4
Little, S. (2021, May 18). The vices of perseverance. https://www.irunfar.com/the-vices-of-perseverance.
Min Zhao, E., Yang, G. (2019). Homomorphic encryption technology for cloud computing. Procedia computer science Vol. 154 p. 73-83. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.procs.2019.06.012
Yahoo! (n.d.). Perseverance+definition. Yahoo! Retrieved November 13, 2021, from https://search.yahoo.com/search;_ylt=A0geJaQ.JohhgUgA4BhXNyoA;_ylc=X1MDMjc2NjY3OQRfcgMyBGZyA21jYWZlZQRmcjIDc2EtZ3Atc2VhcmNoBGdwcmlkA1ZNWlptYmhNVE95TmZJMHRNbWg0MUEEbl9yc2x0AzAEbl9zdWdnAzEwBG9yaWdpbgNzZWFyY2gueWFob28uY29tBHBvcwMyBHBxc3RyA3BlcnNldmUEcHFzdHJsAzcEcXN0cmwDMjMEcXVlcnkDcGVyc2V2ZXJhbmNlJTIwZGVmaW5pdGlvbgR0X3N0bXADMTYzNjMxMjk0OAR1c2VfY2FzZQM-?p=perseverancedefinition&fr2=sa-gp-search&fr=mcafee&type=E211US1451G0.
Zyl, V. (2019). Virtue ethics a contemporary introduction. Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group.
Challenges And Benefits Of Euthanasia Sample Essay
Introduction
Euthanasia, sometimes called assisted suicide, is a controversial practice in contemporary society. On the one hand, supporters argue that individuals should have control over their bodies, including the choice to end their own lives and the right to pass away in dignity (Lamb, 2021). Euthanasia is considered unethical and breaches the sanctity of life, according to opponents.
Life Autonomy
Euthanasia supporters believe that individuals should have the liberty to make decisions regarding their healthcare, which may encompass choosing to terminate their own lives. The position asserted is that euthanasia can be a humane and compassionate approach to mitigating agonizing pain in those afflicted with a fatal malady (Minocha & Mishra, 2019). Individualism is the backbone of autonomy, a guiding principle that believes people can decide what medical care they receive. Healthcare ethics rely on this principle but it is also a fundamental personal right. One of the most controversial applications of this belief is euthanasia, where proponents argue that patients should have the right to choose when they should pass on, especially when they are struggling with a fatal illness. According to Lamb (2021), this idea of personal liberty is at the very core of the argument for euthanasia.
Under certain conditions, supporters of euthanasia argue that it could be a compassionate method to end the unbearable pain of a terminally ill patient. These advocates point out that the patient’s quality of life is greatly reduced, and their agony is often intolerable. In such scenarios, euthanasia could relieve suffering and allow patients to pass with dignity and calmness. Lamb (2021) suggests that euthanasia should be contemplated when a life-threatening sickness causes the patient to suffer and their quality of life significantly diminishes. The pain and distress could be so intense that traditional medical treatments or palliative care may not offer complete relief. In such cases, euthanasia offers an empathetic solution that can help alleviate the patient’s agony. For instance, even with the finest pain relief, a cancer patient in the last stages of the disease may still feel severe agony (Minocha & Mishra, 2019). Euthanasia proponents argue that allowing patients to terminate their lives in such circumstances may be a compassionate method to ease their pain and suffering.
Some terminally ill patients, according to proponents of euthanasia, feel suffering that goes beyond physical pain and involves emotional and psychological discomfort. These patients could lose their sense of dignity, independence, and control over their own life. For instance, a patient with a degenerative neurological condition may gradually lose their independence, cognitive ability, and mobility (Lamb, 2021). This might cause them to endure severe psychological anguish. Euthanasia proponents contend that giving patients a choice to terminate their lives in such situations may allow them to exert some control over their circumstances and do so in a way that respects their autonomy and dignity.
Euthanasia advocates also contend that it may be a more affordable alternative for terminally ill patients who are getting expensive medical procedures but have little chance of recovery. The cost of protracted medical treatments may often be large, even when the patient’s life expectancy or quality of life may not increase much (Minocha & Mishra, 2019). Euthanasia proponents contend that giving patients the option of euthanasia may save them and their families the financial burden of extensive medical treatment and provide them with a quiet, respectable end to their suffering.
The hazards and moral ramifications of willfully taking a person’s life, even in circumstances of terminal disease and severe pain, are legitimate issues raised by opponents of euthanasia, nevertheless. Others contend that making euthanasia legal might lead to misuse and compulsion, particularly for people who are already at risk, such as those who are old, have mental illnesses, or are from underserved neighborhoods (Lamb, 2021). They contend that it is not always feasible to forecast a patient’s prognosis accurately and that, with the right medical attention and support, some people may recover or see improvements in their condition (Zajdel, 2020). In addition, euthanasia critics contend that the practice goes against the idea of the sanctity of human life and that is willfully terminating a life, even with the patient’s agreement, is against the moral and ethical standards of the medical community.
Preservation of Life
Euthanasia opponents contend that, even with the patient’s consent, intentionally ending a person’s life is immoral because life is a gift that should be preserved. They contend that euthanasia should be prohibited because it could create a dangerous situation in which people are forced to choose to end their lives due to social or financial pressures.
Preservation of Life
Euthanasia opponents contend that life is intrinsically important and should be protected at all costs. They contend that regardless of the circumstances, every human life has inherent value and dignity, and purposefully eliminating a life is immoral (Lamb, 2021). They believe that since human life is unique and precious, legalizing euthanasia would violate the value of human life.
The worth of human life is emphasized by many religious or philosophical ideas held by euthanasia opponents. Certain religious traditions value human life as sacrosanct and hold that only a higher force can decide when someone’s life is ending (Minocha & Mishra, 2019). Euthanasia is considered as playing God and interfering with the normal flow of life and death. Euthanasia opponents contend that making it legal might have a negative impact on how society views the worth of human life. They contend that legalizing euthanasia would make people less aware of the value of human life and might make society less sensitive to the sanctity of life (Graafland et al., 2023). This may convey that euthanasia is a valid way to terminate someone’s suffering, which could have serious repercussions for vulnerable groups, including the elderly, people with disabilities, and those who suffer from long-term diseases.
Concerns about Societal and Economic Pressures
Euthanasia opponents often voice concerns about societal and economic variables that may influence people’s choices to select the procedure. They argue that those who are weak, such as the elderly, those with disabilities, or members of marginalized groups, may feel pressured to choose euthanasia because of societal or economic factors, such as a lack of access to high-quality healthcare, financial burdens, or demands placed on caregivers (Graafland et al., 2023). Opponents assert that euthanasia might be recommended as a less costly option than comprehensive palliative care or other aid forms when a society’s healthcare resources are limited (Zajdel, 2020). Due to financial or resource limitations, this might result in a situation where individuals feel compelled to choose euthanasia rather than get the appropriate medical care to end their suffering.
Another point brought up by opponents of euthanasia is the potential for coercion or undue influence on the decision-making process. They claim that vulnerable persons, such as the elderly, the physically disabled, or the mentally ill, may feel pressured or coerced by family members, caregivers, or society to choose euthanasia, even if that is not what they desire (Graafland et al., 2023). This raises ethical concerns about autonomy and consent since extraneous influences should not influence euthanasia.
The Slippery Slope Argument
The slippery slope argument, which contends that permitting euthanasia might set a risky precedent where eligibility requirements for euthanasia gradually blur, is often brought up by opponents of the practice. They contend that once euthanasia is legalized, it could result in a slippery slope where the eligibility requirements are widened beyond those who are terminally ill and experiencing unbearable pain to include other conditions like chronic illness, mental illness, or even non-medical factors like financial hardship (Persson et al., 2020). Consequently, the worth of human life can be progressively eroded when euthanasia becomes a commonplace remedy for various problems or situations.
Euthanasia opponents worry that people’s faith in medical professionals may decline if it becomes legal. They contend that if euthanasia were permitted, the core tenets of medical ethics—do no harm and always act in the patient’s best interest—would be jeopardized (Graafland et al., 2023). Patients may worry that their lives might be prematurely terminated without their full knowledge or permission and may question the motivations of the healthcare professionals treating them (Persson et al., 2020). This might harm the patient-provider connection, undermining the trust necessary for efficient healthcare delivery.
Moral Position on Euthanasia: Emphasizing Compassion, Autonomy, and Safeguards
Euthanasia should, in my opinion, be permitted and controlled in certain situations. Everyone should have the option to choose how they want to be treated, including whether to end their lives (Grassi et al., 2022). In order to stop systematic abuse and ensure that people are not forced into choosing this course of action, I also think that strict regulations need to be put in place.
Compassion and Relief of Suffering
The humane goal of easing the excruciating anguish of terminally sick individuals is one of the strongest arguments for euthanasia. Giving those in unbearable pain and suffering with no chance of recovery the choice to pass away peacefully and with dignity is ethically acceptable (Grassi et al., 2022). Because there are no effective medical treatments to relieve someone’s suffering, it is our moral responsibility as fellow beings to do so and soothe the hurting. In certain instances, euthanasia may be seen as a kind act that permits someone to pass away with dignity and minimal suffering.
Autonomy and Personal Choice
In the moral debate over euthanasia, respecting autonomy, or the idea that every person has the freedom to choose whether or not to live, is essential. Everyone deserves the freedom to choose how they wish to terminate their lives, particularly if they suffer from a fatal illness (Lamb, 2021). As long as it is made willingly, with informed permission, and without any outside influences or force, it is a personal and individual choice that should be honored.
Safeguards and Ethical Considerations
While autonomy and compassion are important moral values, it is also crucial to have strong protections in place to guarantee that euthanasia is done in a morally righteous and responsible manner. Exact instructions on the technique and protocols for delivering euthanasia are examples of precautions (Grassi et al., 2022). A comprehensive assessment of the patient’s condition and prognosis by several healthcare experts is one of the additional safeguards. In order to avoid the abuse and exploitation of euthanasia and to guarantee that vulnerable people are safeguarded (Persson et al., 2020). It is also essential to have legal and regulatory frameworks in place.
Consideration of Potential Risks
It is crucial to recognize and handle any dangers and issues related to euthanasia, as with any complicated moral problem. They include the potential for a “slippery slope” when the qualifying requirements are widened beyond what was intended, the chance that social or economic pressures may affect a person’s choice to terminate their life, and the possible decline in patient-provider trust (Mehlum et al., 2020). Any euthanasia policy or law must be properly planned and implemented to meet these hazards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are strong reasons for both sides in the complicated and nuanced discussion of euthanasia. The autonomy concept, the alleviation of suffering, and the possible cost-effectiveness of the procedure are all stressed by euthanasia proponents. They contend that people should be free to decide what happens in their own lives, including whether to terminate their own lives if they are enduring excruciating pain or a fatal disease. They also emphasize the importance of protecting patients’ autonomy and dignity in their dying moments.
Opponents of euthanasia, however, focus on the need to preserve life, the dangers of abuse and compulsion, and the violation of the sacredness of human life. They contend that purposefully taking a life, even with the person’s consent, undermines the worth of human life and is ethically immoral. Moreover, they raise worries about the possible cultural pressures and economic incentives that can lead people to choose euthanasia, as well as the potential desensitization of society to the worth of life. Euthanasia is a subject that has to have its ethical, moral, and practical ramifications carefully considered. To properly comprehend the drawbacks and advantages of euthanasia, it is crucial to have meaningful, polite conversations about it. It is also necessary to work toward solutions that put people’s liberty and well-being first while respecting the worth and sanctity of human life.
References
Graafland, W., Pleizier, T. T. J., Boer, T. A., & Groenewoud, A. S. (2023). Challenges in pastoral care practice in euthanasia: A concept mapping study among Dutch protestant pastors. Death Studies, 1-11.
Grassi, L., Gaind, K. S., Nash, T., & Caruso, R. (2022). Euthanasia and medical assistance in dying as challenges for physicians’ well-being. Depression, Burnout and Suicide in Physicians: Insights from Oncology and Other Medical Professions, 113-125.
Lamb, C. M. (2021). Paediatric euthanasia in Canada: New challenges for end of life care. Paediatrics & Child Health, 26(2), 79-81.
Mehlum, L., Schmahl, C., Berens, A., Doering, S., Hutsebaut, J., Kaera, A., … & di Giacomo, E. (2020). Euthanasia and assisted suicide in patients with personality disorders: a review of current practice and challenges. Borderline personality disorder and emotion dysregulation, 7(1), 1-7.
Minocha, V. R., & Mishra, A. (2019). Euthanasia: Ethical Challenges of Shift from “Right to Die” to “Objective Decision”. Annals of the National Academy of Medical Sciences (India), 55(02), 110-115.
Persson, K., Selter, F., Neitzke, G., & Kunzmann, P. (2020). Philosophy of a “good death” in small animals and consequences for euthanasia in animal law and veterinary practice. Animals, 10(1), 124.
Zajdel, K. A. (2020). Difficulties experienced by the family in the challenges of euthanasia–hopes and illusions. Medycyna Ogólna i Nauki o Zdrowiu, 26(1), 48.
Cloud Computing As The Future Essay Example For College
Definition and Overview of Cloud Computing
The present technologies present cloud computing to improve organizational performance. The technology involves the transmission of software, storage, and processing capability via the Internet (Rashid et al., 2019). It enables consumers on-demand access to resources without requiring local servers or physical infrastructure. Cloud computing’s importance and relevance in the contemporary technological landscape have grown dramatically due to its several benefits, including scalability, adaptability, cost-effectiveness, and worldwide accessibility (Shukha et al., 2021). It has altered how businesses and individuals store, manage, and analyze data, becoming a driving force behind digital transformation.
The Purpose of this Literature Review
Cloud computing (CC) has emerged as a dominant technological force with tremendous future potential. This research looks at the history of cloud computing, focusing on significant events, influential figures, and innovations. According to Sun et al. (2020), the impact of CC on various industries is critically examined, emphasizing its use and development. Given that it is still reshaping the technological landscape, its effects and prospects are being thoroughly investigated. The ability of cloud computing to provide scalable and cost-effective solutions has transformed IT, finance, healthcare, and other industries (Gill et al., 2019). The study also shows how cloud computing has the potential to accelerate innovation besides transforming industries in the future, making it an important area for future research.
The Changing Characteristics of Cloud Computing
CC has advanced significantly since its inception, influenced by several significant turning points and innovations. Bestowing to Khan et al. (2020), this concept of utility computation emerged in the early 2000s, when computer resources were made available as a service, similar to other utilities such as electricity and water. As a result, cloud computing, as it exists today, was able to evolve. Amazon Web Services (AWS), one of the early leaders, introduced its Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) in 2006 and provided scalable computing properties via the Internet (Sun, 2020). Following this, other major companies entered the market and provided a wide range of cloud-based services, including IBM Cloud, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.
The Adoption of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is used in finance, healthcare, education, e-commerce, and other industries. Businesses have fostered digital transformation and obtained competitive advantages by leveraging the benefits of CC, such as cost reductions, innovation, and agility (Tabrizchi et al., 2020). According to Grand View Research, the worldwide cloud computing market will be worth $1,251.09 billion by 2028, thus showing how it is growing at an exponential rate
Current State of Cloud Computing
Non-stop breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, machine learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), and edge computing are examples of innovation of domains. Concurring with Shafiq et al. (2022), businesses use CC to improve cost-effectiveness, scalability, and adaptability, allowing them to respond better to changing business demands. Data security, privacy, then regulatory compliance continues to be key challenges in this realm. Increased complexity of maintaining multi-cloud setups, and the growing need for sustainable and environmentally friendly cloud solutions, are emerging trends influencing the current status of CC.
Technologies and Platforms in Cloud Computing
Software as a Service, Platform as a Service, and Infrastructure as a Service are examples (of SaaS). IaaS makes virtualized computer resources, such as storage and virtual devices, available online. Referring to Gill et al. (2019), developers may create, deploy, and manage applications on a PaaS platform without worrying about infrastructure administration. By distributing programs via the Internet, SaaS eliminates the need for local software installation.
Challenges and Limitations of Cloud Computing
Concerns about the security and confidentiality of data kept in the cloud have been raised as companies must safeguard information against unauthorized access, breaches, and disclosures (Ijaz et al., 2021). This involves establishing appropriate authentication and authorization mechanisms, protecting figures in transit and at rest, and encrypting sensitive facts. Companies must evaluate the location of their cloud data storage and processing because different countries’ data protection legislation may differ. This may influence data sovereignty or control and custody, and organizations that use cloud services may be forced to comply with certain data protection requirements. Switching cloud service providers or migrating applications and data from one cloud to another might be difficult due to vendor lock-in (Sun et al., 2020). Businesses are forced to reconstruct or alter their systems when moving bids and information to a new cloud provider, resulting in technical and operational issues.
Besides, companies that use cloud services must follow industry-specific regulations, such as HIPAA for the healthcare industry or GDPR for personal data protection in the European Union. Relevant facts governance, audit controls, and statistics preservation policies may be required to guarantee compliance with these rules. According to Rashid et al. (2019), the ability to use and acquire access to cloud-based services is a critical component of cloud computing. The availability and performance of cloud services may be improved if an organization’s internet connection is better if there are disruptions. Cloud service interruptions or delays can result in productivity losses, business disruptions, and data loss. CC allows for flexible resource allocation and scalability but can result in unexpected costs if not effectively handled. Businesses must plan, monitor, and optimize cloud resource utilization to avoid overprovisioning or unexpected usage penalties. This will also assure cost-effectiveness.
Moreover, moving huge amounts of data to and from the cloud can be time-consuming and expensive, especially if data transfer or bandwidth limits apply (Tabrizchi et al., 2020). Organizations must evaluate the price and time consequences of transferring data to or from the cloud or between cloud services. SLAs, which specify the performance, availability, and support guarantees for cloud services, include the following: Businesses should thoroughly assess and comprehend the service level agreements (SLAs) supplied by cloud providers. Organizations must have contingency plans for service outages or failures because SLAs may have restrictions and exclusions (Gill et al., 2022). Organizations should examine the level of assistance required for their cloud-based important business apps and data because the quality of support and responsiveness from cloud providers can vary.
Benefits and Advantages of Cloud Computing
CC provides several benefits and advantages. Cost reductions and economic gains are significant advantages of cloud computing since organizations may avoid initial expenditures in physical infrastructure and pay for the resources they actively use. Referring to Shafiq et al. (20220 because of the flexibility and versatility of cloud computing, firms may easily modify their computing resources to their needs, allowing them to be more agile and responsive to changing business requirements. Increased accessibility and collaboration are further benefits of cloud computing, which allows teams to work successfully across different locations and devices, enhancing productivity and communication. Furthermore, cloud computing enhances efficiency by allowing firms to focus on their core business operations by reducing the need to manage their IT infrastructure (Khan et al., 2022). It fosters creativity by giving organizations access to cutting-edge tools and technology that accelerate creation besides launching new apps and services.
Applications and Use Cases of Cloud Computing
Many sectors have discovered many cloud computing applications and use cases. Bestowing to Sun (2020), cloud computing is used in the commercial and enterprise sectors for various applications, including data backup and storage, software development and testing, customer relationship management (CRM), human resource management, and collaboration tools. CC enables businesses to grow while lowering IT costs and boosting agility and creativity. Sun (2020) understands that CC is used in healthcare, education, and government sectors for electronic health records (EHRs), telemedicine, online learning platforms, e-government services, and disaster recovery. The institutions’ agencies can securely store, manage, and retrieve data with cloud computing, allowing remote collaboration.
Also, CC is used in artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and scientific research for large-scale data processing, machine learning, and simulations (Tabrizchi et al., 2020). The technology gives academics and data scientists the computational capacity and resources for complicated data analysis and modeling, accelerating AI developments and scientific progress. The Internet of Things (IoT), peripheral, and mobile computing all benefit from cloud computing. Cloud-based version platforms allow the collecting, processing, and analyzing of enormous amounts of data generated by devices (Sun, 2020). Edge computing uses cloud computing capabilities closer to the data source for real-time processing and low-latency applications. Mobile computing relies on cloud services for data storage, synchronization, and processing across several devices.
Future Trends and Directions of Cloud Computing
CC is expected to increase and impact a wide range of businesses. Serverless computing, containerization, and hybrid cloud architectures are anticipated to shape the impending CC. Businesses may focus on creating code rather than managing the underlying infrastructure with serverless computing, while containerization facilitates the deployment and maintenance of programs across numerous environments (Khan et al., 2020). Hybrid cloud designs blend private and public clouds, allowing enterprises to be more flexible and customize their cloud approach.
Furthermore, According to Gill et al. (2019), CC is projected to accelerate progress in peripheral computing, 5G, AI, and quantum computing. Edge computing will likely gain popularity as businesses strive to examine data closer to the source for low-latency and real-time applications. The deployment of 5G networks is expected to dramatically improve cloud computing capabilities by enabling quicker and more reliable communication (Shukra et al., 2021). AI and machine learning are expected to use CC resources for complicated model training and inference. Quantum computing potentially transforms cloud calculating by enabling the creation of new applications and the resolution of tough problems (Rashid et al., 2019). CC has a great possibility in the future, but interoperability, data security, privacy, and conformance are challenges. Companies must solve these concerns to ensure CC’s long-term success and viability as it evolves and matures.
Critical Analysis of Cloud Computing
CC has changed how businesses and individuals store, access, and use data. However, it also raises important obstacles that must be carefully examined. When cloud providers access sensitive data, ethical concerns such as data protection, custody, and consent must be addressed. Data breaches, hacking, and unauthorized access to cloud-based resources are all security issues (Gill et al., 2019). Compliance with rules and regulations governing data privacy, intellectual property, and cross-border information transfers are among the authorized and regulatory obstacles. Cloud infrastructure data centers’ energy consumption and carbon footprint impact the environment (Sun et al., 2020). To guarantee that the benefits of cloud computing are maximized while possible concerns are minimized, several critical problems must be thoroughly examined.
Ethical Considerations in Cloud Computing
Businesses and consumers must address the ethical implications of keeping and processing data on cloud servers, including issues about sensitive and personal data acquisition, use, and potential misuse. The fairness and openness of the algorithms and AI models used by cloud-based services and the possibility of bias, discrimination, and unethical technology use may pose ethical concerns.
Security Concerns in Cloud Computing
To prevent illegal access, organizations must employ access control and authentication methods. Data breaches, insider attacks, and other security issues offer hazards of data loss, monetary loss, and reputational harm. According to Rashid et al. (2019), cloud service providers must use strong security measures, conform to industry standards, and follow the law to secure user data. Even with advancements in security measures, continual attention is essential to face changing security risks in the rapidly increasing world of cloud computing.
Legal and Regulatory Issues in Cloud Computing
CC entails following contracts, jurisdiction, intellectual property, and data protection norms and regulations. Organizations must first decide whether the country’s laws apply to cloud-stored data to comply with local laws and manage the legal complications connected with data sovereignty (Shukra et al., 2021). To get legal protection and reduce risks, it is vital to fully understand and discuss contractual issues with cloud service providers, such as service level agreements (SLAs), data ownership, and liability. The environmental and long-term impacts of cloud computing are a major topic of worry. The functioning of cloud information centers, which store and process massive amounts of digital data, necessitates a substantial amount of energy.
High energy consumption negatively impacts the ecosystem, including deforestation, air and water pollution, and habitat destruction. Organizations are now addressing the environmental impact of their cloud usage due to the rapid expansion of CC (Shafiq et al., 2022). Implementing sustainable practices is critical for reducing the environmental impact of cloud computing. These practices include using renewable energy sources to power data centers, resource optimization to reduce energy waste, and carbon footprint reduction through effective server utilization and data center design (Ijaz et al., 2021). To mitigate the negative environmental implications of this fast-emerging technology, businesses should prioritize sustainability in their cloud computing initiatives.
Conclusion
Summary
The significance of CC as the future of technology has been addressed in this literature study. It has investigated the evolution of cloud computing, covering crucial moments, key individuals, and inventions. Many industries, including finance, healthcare, education, and e-commerce, have adopted and extended CC, emphasizing its future possibilities. The assessment discussed the present state of CC, including the key market participants, technologies, and platforms, counting IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS. Advantages and benefits have been highlighted, cost savings, scalability, flexibility, improved collaboration, accessibility, efficiency, also innovation. Furthermore, its applications and use cases across various disciplines such as business, enterprise, healthcare, education, government, scientific research, data analytics, and artificial intelligence have been assessed.
Implications and recommendations for future research and practice in cloud computing
The literature review offers implications and recommendations for future cloud computing studies and applications. Future research could begin by focusing on the constraints and limitations of cloud computing, such as data sovereignty, vendor lock-in, and regulatory compliance. Resolving these difficulties can improve company adoption and exploitation of cloud computing technology. Further studies might also look into the potential of developing cloud computing trends and technologies, including multi-cloud computing, serverless computing, peripheral computing, and containers. Understanding the consequences and benefits of these technologies can aid in forecasting the future of cloud computing. Lastly, further research on the economic and environmental impacts of CC can be performed. Despite its financial rewards and cost savings, cloud computing consumes significant energy. Knowing how cloud computing affects the environment can assist businesses in making educated technology decisions.
Besides, additional research could look into the ethical and societal aspects of cloud computing, such as data privacy, security, algorithmic prejudice, and the digital divide. Understanding and addressing these ethical and social challenges can enable the appropriate and inclusive adoption of cloud computing technology. Organizations should consider using CC technology to reap the benefits of cost savings, scalability, adaptability, and innovation. In addition, to deal with the constraints and limitations of cloud computing, they must employ appropriate approaches such as robust security measures, data governance policies, and vendor management practices. Organizations can study the potential of emerging technologies and cloud computing trends to stay ahead of the competition and progress in digital transformation.
References
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