What was last year's buzzword is this year's reality: cloud computing.

Cloud computing speaks to accessing application and data from remote locations. Google seems to have emerged as the market leader in cloud computing. Google GMail and Google Apps are among a suite of services to uses that provide convenience and savings.

At a consumer level, there are a host of Software as a Service (SaaS) options available. Office suites - word processing, spreadsheets and presentation applications - are available from Google Apps and OpenOffice.org. Email clients are offered by GMail, Yahoo!, Hotmail and many others. Photo and video editing in the cloud is available from YouTube, Animoto and Forbidden Technologies. Even accounting software like Quicken and Mint have moved to the cloud.

cloud computing

So, here is why cloud computing is convenient. Because applications and data are stored remotely (in the cloud), they are accessible from multiple locations usually using a browser interface. That means, you can start a document at home, edit it at work and then take it to school. You can do this with a jump drive, but cloud computing is better because it can't be lost, it only has one version - the right one and its is compatible everywhere. Better all round.

Cloud computing is cheaper because, many services are free and those you have to pay for are cheaper. Cloud computing services usually attract a per use fee or monthly subscription fee. In general, this is a lot less expensive than buying all the software you may need.

If you have a business, then cloud computing can really save you money. In addition to saving the cost of the purchase of the software (point to note, you don't actually own the software, just a lenience to use it), cloud computing services are easier to manage. No IT department required, no geek on hand needed to help manage the compatibility, installation and other issues associated with 'traditional' software systems.

But here is the catch; 'cause you knew there had to be a catch. Without the Internet, you'll be burning in the sun instead of basking in the shade of a cloud.

The success of cloud computing has come on the back of fast, reliable Internet access. You won't be able to access your GMail or review your Google Apps document at the coffee shop or at your friend's house if you can't get online.

Fortunately, such cases are rare. But do download your data at regular intervals to ensure you have a physical copy of your work in addition to the virtual copy. After all, there are bound to be some sunshiny days.

Tech Glitch: Nicolas writes, "I just bought a new HDTV and there are many different connections. Which should I use for my cable box?"

Tech Fix:Congratulations, Nicolas. If you have an HD cable box, connect your cable with HDMI. If you have a digital cable box, it is best to use RCA cables for the best picture quality. Use coaxial only as a last resort.

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