Key Terms

Cloud Computing – A computing capability that provides an abstraction between the computing resource and its underlying technical architecture (e.g., servers, storage, networks), enabling convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction.” This definition states that clouds have five essential characteristics: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. Narrowly speaking, cloud computing is client-server computing that abstract the details of the server away;one requests a service (resource), not a specific server (machine). Cloud computing enables Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). Cloud computing means that infrastructure, applications, and business processes can be delivered to you as a service, over the Internet (or your own network).

Cloud Application – a software application that is never installed on a local machine — it’s always accessed over the Internet. The “top” layer of the Cloud Pyramid where “applications” are run and interacted with via a web-browser. Cloud Applications are tightly controlled, leaving little room for modification. Examples include: Gmail

Cloud OS – also known as platform-as-a-service (PaaS). Think Google Chrome.

Cloud Operating System – A computer operating system that is specially designed to run in a provider’s datacenter and be delivered to the user over the Internet or another network. Windows Azure is an example of a cloud operating system or “cloud layer” that runs on Windows Server 2008. The term is also sometimes used to refer to cloud-based client operating systems such as Google’s Chrome OS.

Future Scope of Cloud OS

With arrival of web based Operating System, the conventional way of computing has gone for a sea change. As per some expert opinions, it is going to be the face of future Cloud OS. And hence, the future of Cloud OS seems very promising. Let us have a look on what is makes the future of Cloud OS so bright.

As per some surveys conducted by leading organizations, 70% of Americans will be getting benefited from cloud and it various applications in next decades for official and personal use. And this is not an overestimate or exaggeration, as we are already using cloud and its applications in one form or another. Some of the examples of Cloud OS are Chrome OS and EyeOS.

1. Presence of Internet will boost its future: The Cloud OS will become all the more important with the omnipresence of high-speed, broadband Internet. Slowly but steadily we are getting closer. Even airlines are offering satellite based Wi-Fi services in flights. In a mass drive to connect every village with Internet wireless Internet services are offered through the help of satellite, although speed is a bit slow. This increasing presence of Internet is opening new vistas in educations and healthcare. With the help of Cloud OS we can use these services at a little cost.
2. No more software updates: Most of the computer professionals lose lots of their time and efforts downloading different versions of software so that they can access the various programs and data with little efforts. Most of the software are on the cloud servers so you don't need to down and install for little use. So, whether you want to access emails or go through spreadsheet, it has become fun with the arrival of Cloud OS. As per some estimates a sizable number of software will be delivered through the Internet.
3. Hardware optional: With the arrival of Cloud OS it is no longer necessary to purchase hard drives with large storage capacity, as it can be stored on cloud. So keep the fear of losing your data away. All your data with complete back up can be stored on the cloud. So with rising popularity the computers will act as an interface to communicate with Cloud OS.
4. Entertainment unlimited: As hardware is no more mandatory, so there is no limit on entertainment options. Uploading latest software and buying games from the market is going to be things of the past. In the future, there will be mobile 3D games to entertain your kids.
5. Medical treatments simplified: The future of Cloud OS is not confined to entertainment and gaming options as it can contribute massively in the fields of medical sciences as well. As most of the contemporary treatment require computer assistance, as data have to be searched for various things like DNA samples and other biochemical procedures and hence Cloud OS is going to play its part in the most of the therapies. In addition, it will make easy the task of data processing.
6. No need to rub shoulders: If going to a grocery store irritates you, as it is crowded don't go there. Just get to the Internet and add things to the cart and order. The product will be delivered at your doorstep. Nowadays the shopping has gone online and Cloud OS has certain role to play in the business. Are you still doubtful about the future of Cloud OS?
7. A new age safety system: With the help of Cloud OS, records of cars including number. Driving license and address detail of the owner can be stored on the cloud in case the car is stolen one and recovered by some security agency in far off locations, they can instantly inform the owner of the car. It also lessens the burden of the various police and security organizations in a given region. Likewise complete details of all the population of a county that including Fingerprint and DNA records can be given. It will help recruiters in doing background checks before giving employment to candidates. It will help reduces theft and misconduct in some cases.

Cloud OS—Chrome OS

1.....Cloud Operating System In The World Market--Chrome OS

Fig: Cloud OS—Chrome OS

Google Chrome OS is a Linux-based operating system designed by Google to work exclusively with web applications. Chrome OS is an open source web desktop following the cloud computing concept. It is mainly written in PHP, XML, and JavaScript. It acts as a platform for web applications written using the Chrome OS Toolkit.

Chrome OS is all about cantering work and entertainment in a single place. Chrome OS is about removing compatibility issues between applications and operating systems and taking your life everywhere. Chrome OS is available in 30 translations. And is used privately and professionally throughout the world rather it is used for public environments, schools, small and large companies alike or a way to share data with your family. 

Cloud OS—ZeroPC

2.....Cloud Operating System In The World Market--ZeroPC

Fig: Cloud OS—ZeroPC

ZeroPC offers you 1GB of free storage and lets you to connect cloud storage services like Box,DropBox, Google Drive, SkyDrive, SugarSync and 4Shared for access to your paperwork. ZeroPC is also available on the Android, iPhone and iPad, giving you access while on the go.

For photo lovers, it is also a great "photo management tool", linking photo & video services like Facebook, Flickr, Instagram, PhotoBucket, Picasa and Recood. Plus, it also has native apps for instant messaging, a text editor as well as productivity tools for managing documents and spreadsheets online.

CloudOS—Jolicloud

3.....Cloud Operating System In The World Market--Jolicloud

Fig: CloudOS—Jolicloud

Jolicloud offers you Joli OS, which you can download and install in your system (even if it’s 10 years old) or use it in the browser. Joli OS provides you with the full cloud experience – keep and use your favorite apps anytime, anywhere. Jolicloud has over 15,000 web apps you can access using the system.

You can integrate your DropBox and Google Drive accounts with Jolicloud and there is also a ‘Jolicloud Me’ version where you can manage all of your online life at a single place Jolicloud Me currently supports Facebook, Flickr, Instagram, Picasa, Tumblr and Twitter.

Cloud OS—Glide OS

4.....Cloud Operating System In The World Market--Glide OS

Fig: Cloud OS—Glide OS

Glide OS is a good choice if you’re collaborating for a group project. Glide team offers 30GB of free storage and you can add a total of 6 users in your account. The OS is not very pretty but is quite useful; it has additional features like email and profiles as well as basic tools like Calendar, Notes, Text editor, Presentation maker, etc required for your paperwork.

Glide also provides syncing software for Windows, Mac OS and Linux so that you can easily sync your files between Glide HD (they call it the Glide Hard Disk) and your local storage. They also have browser extensions and a mobile version.

Cloud OS—SilveOS

5.....Cloud Operating System In The World Market--SilveOS

 

Fig: Cloud OS—SilveOS 

SilveOS is a cloud operating system built on Silverlight. You can run it in any browser with Silverlight installed. It has many built-in apps which let you write, listen to music, make notes, and even play Solitaire. You can also install Silverlight apps from the web in SilveOS.

It, however, doesn’t provide any storage so it’s not the best Cloud OS for long term work. But it’s a handy tool if you often work on computers that is not yours like the office computer or at cyber cafes.

Cloud OS—ISaces Cloud Computer

6.....Cloud Operating System In The World Market--ISaces Cloud Computer

Fig: Cloud OS—ISaces Cloud Computer

 

iSpaces has only the basic features for you to manage your work like Browser, File manager, Notes, Office suite (Zoho office), etc. It also has 3 Workspaces accessible from the task bar. t lets you keep your working environments organized with quick access from one Workspace to the other.

You can work on your files from Box and DropBox using the file manager. iSpaces has a simple environment for you to access your files on Box and DropBox in the same view, and you can move your files from one space to another just by drag and drop. The changes will be reflected in your respective cloud storage accounts.

Cloud OS—Cloudo

7.....Cloud Operating System In The World Market--Cloudo

Fig: Cloud OS—Cloudo

Although in beta stage, Cloudo is an interesting operating system built to run in your browser. It is packed with apps like Mail, Calendar, Audio Player, RSS reader, Contact manager, Word processor, Notepad, Command Line Interpreter, Finder (to search files) etc. It provides a good interface like an operating system where you can run commands, install apps, play music etc.

It handle multi-tasking quite efficiently and let you do your tasks efficiently. It also offers an Application Manager which you can use to install more apps in your Cloudo.

Cloud OS—XOS

8.....Cloud Operating System In The World Market--XOS

Fig: Cloud OS—XOS

xOS doesn’t provide a lot of customization options but they do provide a good collection of apps for personal use. It offers Web browser, File manager, Text editor, Notes, Calendar, Paint, Email client, and Canvas Rider (a bicycle game) among others.

Cloud OS—ZimDesk

9.....Cloud Operating System In The World Market--ZimDesk

Fig: Cloud OS—ZimDesk

ZimDesk is a cloud operating system full of apps and features. It has got Custom wallpapers, Office Suite, Contact Manager, RSS reader, Calendar, Mail client, FTP client, File uploader and manager etc.

Cloud OS—The Places A

10.....Cloud Operating System In The World Market--The Places A

Fig: Cloud OS--The Places A

It’s an another cloud operating system which offers basic apps like Radio, Calendar, File manager, Bookmark manager, Notes, Email client, etc. You can add web apps to it as links which will be opened in new tabs. It also supports instant messaging between its users.

Cloud OS is unique in the sense that you can have all your documents, designs, music, personal files, photos and videos kept online and accessible via a virtual working environment. Great for busy people who are always on the go, travelling to different places, working on different computers or mobile devices. Working on a Cloud OS, all you need is an Internet connection and you’re all set.

It has got Custom wallpapers, Office Suite, Contact Manager, RSS reader, Calendar, Mail client, FTP client, File uploader and manager etc.

Cloud Operating System In The World Market

Cloud Computing means Internet-based computing where your data and the software are present on the Web, and the application is used as a service rather than a standalone software. You can run a virtual application or operating system within a browser which preserves your user session and your data. It’s like traveling with your own computer but without carrying its hardware.

Some of Cloud OS developed are as follows:

1. Chrome OS
2. ZeroPC
3. Jolicloud
4. Glide OS
5. Silve OS
6. ISpace Cloud Computer
7. Cloudo
8. XOS
9. ZimDesk
10. The Places A

User Interface with Web Server

Design goals for Google Chrome OS's user interface included using minimal screen space by combining applications and standard Web pages into a single tab strip, rather than separating the two. Designers considered a reduced window management scheme that would operate only in full-screen mode

 Figure showing User Interface with Web Server

Secondary tasks would be handled with "panels": floating windows that dock to the bottom of the screen for tasks like chat and music players. Split screens were also under consideration for viewing two pieces of content side-by-side. Google Chrome OS would follow the Chrome browser's practice of leveraging HTML5's offline modes, background processing, and notifications. Designers proposed using search and pinned tabs as a way to quickly locate and access applications. 

Hardware Support for Chrome OS

Google Chrome OS is initially intended for secondary devices like netbooks, not as a user's primary PC, and will run on hardware incorporating an x86 or ARM-based processor. While Chrome OS will support hard disk drives, Google has requested that its hardware partners use solid-state drives "for performance and reliability reasons" as well as the lower capacity requirements inherent in an operating system that accesses applications and most user data on remote servers. In November 2009 Matthew Papakipos, engineering director for the Google Chrome OS claimed that the Chrome OS consumes one-sixtieth as much drive space as Windows 7.

Architecture Overview

In preliminary design documents for the Chromium OS open source project, Google described a three-tier architecture: firmware, browser and window manager, and system-level software and user land services.

 Figure showing 3-Tier Architecture of Cloud OS

Firmware

The firmware contributes to fast boot time by not probing for hardware, such as floppy disk drives, that are no longer common on computers, especially netbooks. The firmware also contributes to security by verifying each step in the boot process and incorporating system recovery.  

System-Level Software 

System-level software includes the Linux kernel that has been patched to improve boot performance. User land software has been trimmed to essentials, with management by Upstart, which can launch services in parallel, re-spawn crashed jobs, and defer services in the interest of faster booting.

The Window Manager

The window manager handles user interaction with multiple client windows much like other X window managers.

Need v/s Want

Can a Chromebook be used offline? Most think not, but they’d be wrong. There is an entire suite of offline apps Chrome OS makes use of. We can create a Google Drive document offline and there are quite a few games available.

Let’s also be honest about our internet connection and how they relate to our computers. Setting aside the OS argument, when was the last time you considered a computer useful without an internet connection? If we’re being truthful, most of us will admit we don’t think computers in general have much use when offline. What would we use them for without a connection? Create a document, maybe a presentation, play a few games. All that can be done within Cloud OS.

Gaming is also migrating to the web ever so slightly, so in a few years’ time this won’t be a concern for most. . As the Chromebook Pixel becomes a tool more developers pick up, we can expect more tools to be coming to Chrome OS. Some immediate needs or wants aren’t met right now, and that’s to be expected with a fairly new OS like Chrome.

Figure showing Layers of the current OS and cloud server OS

 

Cloud OS is better with a web connection, but it’s not mandatory. For most people, offline productivity won’t change. If a web connection is something you can’t live without, there is always a 3G or LTE version (Pixel only) of the Chromebook available. It may require a different method of accomplishing things, like using Drive rather than MS Office, but that could end up being beneficial.

What Cloud OS Isn’t

Nothing is perfect, eyeOS is basically a web application and Chrome OS is still a work in progress for Google, but still pretty good for what it is. Some glaring omissions are present, but may have a silver lining to them.

The Os You’re Used To  

When we start our desktop or laptop it first boots and after completing all the tasks, OS gives us final UI and we are allowed to work or use. When you get a Chromebook, there is one glaring omission that screams at you: there is no optical drive. That’s right, there is no way to load software from a CD or DVD. For some, this is a deal breaker, but that’s just the nature of Chrome OS. With such a lightweight layer on top of the browser, there is no bulk for software to make a home. Applications take the place of software, making the Chrome Web Store your go-to source for all your needs. Some of us need software that can’t be duplicated or mimicked, so Chrome OS won’t make sense in those instances. Others may find a suitable alternative on the Web Store, perhaps one they like more than their current offering.

Time Consuming

With a 10 second boot, there is no grand entrance. Chrome OS is up and running in quick order, ready to work or play. All updates are fed to the device over the air, and the device updates every 6 weeks or so. You are rarely even aware of the updates, a stark difference to a traditional PC which can take up to an hour updating itself. Being lightweight has its benefits.