Cloud computing is an essential core element of Industry 4.0 and is already indispensable for many modern companies. What exactly is cloud computing, what areas of application exist and what advantages companies can benefit from is explained below.
What is cloud computing?
The commercial beginnings of cloud computing date back to the 1990s - but the principle only became indispensable for modern companies that want to position themselves in line with Industry 4.0 a few years ago. Cloud computing refers to the provision of IT resources via the internet. Thanks to cloud computing, companies can access resources such as storage and servers without having to install the corresponding hardware themselves. This enables demand-oriented and cost-efficient use of IT structures.
What advantages does cloud computing offer the industry?
Cloud computing is a modern solution for many IT-based challenges. Instead of having to buy servers, software and the like and install them on your own computers or operate them yourself, they are simply used over the internet as and when required. This has some decisive advantages:
Advantage 1: Scalability
Thanks to cloud computing, companies have the opportunity to use IT resources as and when they need them. This means they do not have to invest in expensive hardware and software in advance, which may not even be needed. Instead, they can add and remove all the elements they need as and when required.
Advantage 2: Flexibility
When market conditions change, quick action is required. Cloud computing offers maximum flexibility here because IT applications can be tested and made usable quickly and risk-free.
Advantage 3: Cost efficiency
With cloud computing, companies only have to pay for the IT components that they actually use. In addition, IT solutions no longer have to be purchased in full and implemented at great expense. This saves high one-off amounts and regular fixed costs.
Advantage 4: Security
Security and updating tasks are no longer or only partially the responsibility of the company. This reduces the risk of failure and also saves time and money.
Advantage 5: Global availability
Cloud computing guarantees access to the systems from any end device. The only requirement is a stable connection to the Internet. This facilitates collaboration at all levels.
For which areas of application is cloud computing used in industry?
For industrial companies, cloud computing offers numerous areas of application that help to reduce costs, optimize production processes and make better use of potential. We present some of them below.
Processing and analyzing data
Big data is one of the core elements of Industry 4.0. The huge volumes of data must be collected, stored and processed in real time. In-house storage capacities are generally not sufficient for this or can only be provided at enormous financial expense. Outsourcing data storage to the cloud and using cloud-based analysis tools enables resource-friendly processing.
Artificial intelligence
Machine learning and data analysis driven by artificial intelligence are essential for monitoring and optimizing processes. Cloud computing provides access to suitable tools and applications.
Simulations
Cloud-based simulations are recommended to exploit innovative potential. These offer risk-free test environments prior to the introduction of changes to the physical system. This reduces the risk and facilitates the error-free implementation of innovations.
What are the challenges of cloud computing for the industry?
In order to take advantage of the many benefits of cloud computing in industry, companies need to overcome a number of hurdles. In addition to security and compliance aspects as well as the demands on their own workforce, the integration of cloud solutions into existing IT systems is particularly important. Individual solutions are available here, often with a deliberate step-by-step approach.