Some users may only just have adjusted to the concept of cloud computing, but there’s already a replacement on the horizon; fog computing.

While it’s only just beginning to create a buzz, the term has been around for a little while, and it refers to a structure that may provide users with a smoother, faster and more efficient computing experience than the Cloud. But what exactly does it mean, and what’s the difference?

Cloud computing refers to a structure whereby all your data is stored and processed on remote servers – those servers are, in effect, the cloud. It allows you to access your data wherever you are, from any machine or device with an internet connection. However, this carries with it a large requirement for bandwidth; as more and more devices become internet-capable and more and more users get online, there will inevitably be more and more data being transmitted to cloud servers, slowing everything down.

Fog computing will in effect bring your data back down to the ground; instead of sending all your data to a central server for processing and storage, the fog uses the processing power of your device to handle some of the work. It should provide the same benefits for remote access as the cloud, but without the high demand for bandwidth and without the necessity of keeping every device constantly online.

Many businesses already use a hybrid structure with a balance between localised computing and cloud services – some might say that they are in effect already using fog computing, and that this is simply a new word for an existing concept.

The fact is that whilst cloud computing has gained a lot of popularity in recent years, it still presents a number of issues to businesses; not only the requirement for bandwidth but also the need for proper security, and concerns over the reliability of the cloud servers themselves.

Here at Tristar IT, we offer expert IT support in London and can help you to find the right solutions for your business. Our engineers and support team keep up with all the latest technology developments, so that we can provide you with the best possible service. For more information or to ask about our free audit and health check, call us on 01707 378453 or contact us online.