What is a cloud?

Cloud computing is ubiquitous as we consciously or unconsciously use the "cloud" every day, whether to store personal and business data such as documents, photos and videos, to stream movies, music and games or for applications and software.

The cloud is used to store data not locally on your own device, but centrally on remote servers in large data centers operated by cloud providers such as STACKIT.

STACKIT, the Schwarz Group's cloud and colocation provider, primarily offers its services to companies in Germany. Whether infrastructure services (IaaS) such as virtual machines, networks and storage solutions or platform services (PaaS) such as Cloud Foundry: STACKIT is the right choice for companies that value flexibility, data security and independent European cloud solutions! With STACKIT, you can store, access and process your data from anywhere. On the one hand, the cloud saves storage space on your own devices and, on the other hand, gives you more scalability and security.

Professionals manage and maintain the IT resources for you - and if you need more space or performance, you can simply add it without having to invest in new hardware.

• Cloud: Flexible storage and workspace on the internet that can be accessed from different devices such as computers, smartphones or tablets, regardless of location. It is an IT model, a global server network on which data such as documents, photos, videos, music, games and programs/software are digitally stored and made available.
• Cloud computing: The use of IT resources such as storage space, computing power or software via the internet instead of locally on your own devices.
• Cloud provider: Companies such as STACKIT that provide cloud services.
• Cloud storage: Storage space in the cloud that can be used for applications and data such as documents, music, photos, videos or software.
• Data center: A special building or a room technically equipped with many servers. This is where cloud providers operate their IT infrastructure.
• Server: Powerful computers that provide services and data in a cloud so that users can access these resources flexibly and on demand.
• Cloud infrastructure: All the software and hardware - e.g. servers, networks, storage - required to manage cloud services.
• Software as a Service (SaaS): SaaS involves ready-to-use software applications such as Office programs or email services that are used directly from the cloud.
• Platform as a Service (PaaS)A platform in the cloud on which developers can build and operate their own applications, such as a website, without having to worry about the technology.
• Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)Cloud service where virtual storage, networks and servers can be flexibly rented.
• Edge computing: Type of data processing close to where it is generated, for example at the edge of a network or in machines or devices on site. The advantage is that bandwidth is saved and the network is relieved. In addition, data can be evaluated in real time and does not have to be sent to a remote data center. This is particularly important for applications that require fast responses.
• Colocation-facilities: Specialized data centers with power supply, cooling and fast internet connection where companies can house their own IT equipment and servers so that they do not have to operate the hardware in their own company building.

The term cloud comes from "cloud computing" and refers to a virtual platform that makes IT resources such as storage, network and computing power available flexibly and from any location on the web. In technical terms, these are servers that cloud providers such as STACKIT make available in data centers and that can be accessed from various devices (PC, smartphone, tablet) via the Internet.

Storing information and files in a cloud not only offers clear advantages in the private sphere, but also for companies in particular. Companies and developers benefit from the ability to create and test applications such as a website without having to manage and maintain the infrastructure. By using a cloud, the storage requirements on your own local devices can be reduced. At the same time, the cost of hardware such as in-house servers and IT staff can be reduced.

Everything as a Service: XaaS includes all of the cloud service models mentioned above. This cloud technology approach is therefore a collective term that combines all areas of cloud computing.

Cloud products are an ideal solution for the entire team, as they can significantly optimize collaboration. Other team members have secure, flexible and location-independent access to shared data and documents. They can work together in real time from any location and edit files together. The central storage and synchronization of data also ensures that all team members are always up to date and version conflicts are avoided.

Data protection and security also play a key role in the cloud. This is particularly important for companies, which must ensure that only authorized users have access to the stored files. The strict data protection requirements of the GDPR must also be observed when handling personal data. Public cloud services that store information and data outside the EU are therefore completely out of the question. However, appropriate security measures must also be in place for European clouds. STACKIT uses mechanisms such as encryption to guarantee that sensitive company data is securely protected, thus reducing risks. STACKIT meets all GDPR requirements, is ISO/IEC 27001 certified and operates all services entirely within the German legal system.

Further tips for optimal use of all cloud functions:

• Create clean folder structures.
• For added security, you should set up automated backups.
• For important documents or presentations, you should save new file versions instead of simply overwriting old versions.
• Take additional security measures such as two-factor authentication, encrypt cloud files and consciously set access rights.
• Keep an eye on cloud storage limits for optimal performance.

Cloud storage solutions have firmly established themselves as indispensable resources in the digital world, and not just in Germany. The individual products provide a secure, cost-efficient and scalable method of storing data via the web. The modern IT technologies allow users flexible access to their data - regardless of time zones and geographical distances - and promote productive collaboration in real time.

STACKIT combines everything that modern cloud services have to offer - supplemented by what international providers do not offer to a sufficient extent: digital self-determination, trust, transparency and maximum security. STACKIT is more than just a provider of storage and servers. Rather, it is a platform for companies that want to make their digital data, applications and software solutions available flexibly and securely over the long term.

What cloud solutions are available?

STACKIT offers various cloud solutions that are specially tailored to the requirements of companies and meet the highest European data protection and security standards. From cloud services such as IaaS and PaaS, colocation services, database services and much more, STACKIT offers a wide range that can be used by each customer individually and according to their needs.

Is a cloud infrastructure secure?

Providers attach great importance to the security of a company's files. STACKIT also meets the highest European and international security standards. In addition to access security, protection against data loss and reliability are also a top priority. STACKIT is an excellent choice, especially for companies with high data protection and compliance requirements.

How are cloud and cloud management connected?

Cloud refers to the provision of IT resources via the internet. Cloud management is the structured administration of these resources and services.