4. Networks and the Effects of Using Them – Cloud Storage vs. Other Methods
Objective
Know and understand the advantages and disadvantages of using cloud storage compared with other storage methods, and be able to evaluate which solution best meets a given set of requirements using the ICT systems life‑cycle, network concepts and e‑safety considerations (Cambridge IGCSE ICT 0417).
1. Types & Components of Computer Systems (Syllabus 1)
- Hardware: CPU, RAM, motherboard, power supply, storage media (HDD, SSD, magnetic tape, optical disc, cloud servers).
- Software: Operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux – GUI/CLI), application software (office suites, cloud‑client apps), firmware.
- Network Interface Card (NIC): Provides wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth) connectivity to the local router or switch.
2. Input & Output Devices in Cloud‑Storage Workflows (Syllabus 2)
| Device | Typical Use with Cloud Storage |
|---|
| Keyboard / Mouse / Touchscreen | Enter file names, edit documents, drag‑and‑drop files into cloud folders. |
| Scanner | Scan paper documents and upload PDFs directly to a cloud folder. |
| Digital Camera / Smartphone Camera | Capture images and sync them automatically to cloud albums. |
| Printer / Cloud‑Print Service | Print documents stored in the cloud without downloading first. |
| Speakers / Headphones | Listen to audio files streamed from cloud storage (e.g., podcasts, music). |
| Microphone | Record voice notes and upload them to cloud‑based collaboration tools. |
3. Storage Devices & Media (Syllabus 3)
- Magnetic Media – Hard Disk Drives (HDD) and magnetic tape.
- Capacity: up to tens of terabytes (HDD), up to petabytes (tape).
- Durability: susceptible to mechanical shock; tape is good for long‑term archival.
- Optical Media – CD, DVD, Blu‑ray.
- Capacity: 700 MB (CD), 4.7 GB (DVD), 25‑100 GB (Blu‑ray).
- Durability: resistant to magnetic fields but can be scratched.
- Solid‑State Media – SSD, USB flash drives, Thunderbolt/eSATA external drives.
- Capacity: from a few GB to several TB.
- Speed: SSD ≈ 500 MB/s (read/write), much faster than HDD.
- No moving parts – more resistant to shock.
- Network‑Attached Storage (NAS) – Dedicated file server on a LAN, often with RAID for redundancy.
- Cloud Storage – Remote servers owned by a third‑party provider; accessed via the Internet.
4. What Is Cloud Storage?
- Online service where data is stored on remote servers managed by a provider (e.g., Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, Dropbox).
- Accessed over the Internet using any client device (PC, tablet, smartphone) via Ethernet, Wi‑Fi, or mobile data.
- Typical pricing: pay‑as‑you‑go – cost per gigabyte C = P ⁄ G where P is the monthly price and G the GB supplied.
- Providers usually supply built‑in redundancy, encryption, versioning and sharing tools.
5. Network Devices & Access Methods Used for Cloud Storage (Syllabus 4)
| Component | Role in Cloud Storage |
|---|
| NIC (wired or wireless) | Connects the client to the local router or switch. |
| Router / Modem | Provides Internet connectivity; often includes NAT and firewall functions. |
| Wi‑Fi Access Point (or Bluetooth) | Wireless link between device and router – essential for mobile learning. |
| Switch (LAN) | Distributes traffic within a school/office network before it reaches the router. |
| Firewall / Proxy | Controls which cloud services can be reached and enforces HTTPS encryption. |
Key network terminology (required by the syllabus):
- LAN – Local Area Network, typically within a single building.
- WLAN – Wireless LAN, uses Wi‑Fi to connect devices.
- WAN – Wide Area Network, connects multiple LANs (e.g., the Internet).
- Intranet – Private network accessible only to an organisation’s members.
- Extranet – Controlled access to an organisation’s intranet for external partners.
- Internet – Global public WAN.
6. Common Alternative (Local / Physical) Storage Methods
- Internal HDD/SSD in a computer.
- External USB, Thunderbolt or eSATA drives.
- Network‑Attached Storage (NAS) devices on a LAN.
- Optical media – CD, DVD, Blu‑ray.
- Magnetic tape (archival).
7. Comparison of Cloud Storage with Local / Physical Storage
| Aspect |
Cloud Storage |
Local / Physical Storage |
| Accessibility |
Any device with Internet (Wi‑Fi, Ethernet, mobile data); supports simultaneous collaboration. |
Only on the device or LAN where the media is physically attached. |
| Cost Structure |
Subscription (pay‑as‑you‑go). Example: C = P ⁄ G. |
One‑off hardware purchase; additional costs for power, upgrades, and backups. |
| Scalability |
Virtually unlimited; extra space added instantly. |
Limited by physical capacity; expansion requires new hardware. |
| Speed of Access |
Limited by Internet bandwidth and latency; large files may download slowly. |
Local I/O speeds (SSD ≈ 500 MB/s, HDD ≈ 150 MB/s) – usually faster. |
| Reliability & Redundancy |
Data replicated across multiple data‑centres; providers often guarantee ≥ 99.9 % uptime. |
Single point of failure unless the user creates manual backups or RAID. |
| Data Security & Privacy |
Provider‑managed encryption (at‑rest & in‑transit); data stored off‑site and subject to provider policies and jurisdiction. |
Owner controls physical security and encryption; risk of loss, theft or damage. |
| Control & Ownership |
Terms of service dictate rights; provider may remove data under certain conditions. |
Full ownership of hardware and data; no third‑party restrictions. |
| Environmental Impact |
Shared data‑centres achieve high energy efficiency per GB stored. |
Individual devices consume power; multiple redundant copies increase e‑waste. |
| Network Dependency |
Requires stable Internet; outages block access. |
Works offline; only local network failures affect NAS. |
8. Advantages of Cloud Storage (AO1 – Knowledge)
- Ubiquitous access – ideal for remote learning, home‑school collaboration and mobile work.
- Automatic backup, version control and disaster recovery built into the service.
- Scalable on demand – no need to predict future capacity.
- Reduced on‑site hardware maintenance and physical‑security requirements.
- Integrated sharing tools (links, permission levels, expiry dates).
- Potential cost‑efficiency for organisations that only need occasional extra space.
9. Disadvantages of Cloud Storage (AO1 – Knowledge)
- Dependence on a reliable Internet connection; bandwidth caps can limit large transfers.
- Ongoing subscription fees may exceed a one‑off hardware purchase over several years.
- Privacy concerns – data may be stored in a jurisdiction with different laws.
- Limited control over server hardware, location and upgrade schedule.
- Large media files (e.g., video editing) can be time‑consuming to upload/download.
10. Health & Well‑Being Effects (Syllabus 5)
Extended use of cloud‑based collaboration tools can lead to:
- Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) – caused by prolonged typing or mouse use.
- Eye strain and headaches – from staring at screens for long periods; the 20‑20‑20 rule (every 20 min look at something 20 ft away for 20 seconds) helps.
- Postural problems – encourage ergonomic seating and regular breaks.
11. Safety & Security (Syllabus 8)
11.1 e‑Safety Risks and Mitigation
| Risk | Potential Impact | Mitigation |
|---|
| Unauthorised access (weak passwords) |
Data loss, privacy breach |
Strong, unique passwords + 2‑factor authentication (2FA) |
| Malware / Ransomware on the client device |
Encryption of files before they sync to the cloud |
Up‑to‑date anti‑virus, regular OS patches, scan before upload |
| Phishing links to fake cloud login pages |
Credential theft |
Check URL (https://...), never click unsolicited links; use bookmarks |
| Data‑protection legislation breach (GDPR, Data Protection Act) |
Legal penalties, loss of trust |
Choose providers that comply with relevant legislation; store personal data only where allowed |
| Provider service outage |
Temporary loss of access to critical files |
Maintain a local backup of essential documents (3‑2‑1 rule) |
11.2 Physical Safety (Syllabus 8.1)
- Secure cabling – avoid tripping hazards and protect cables from damage.
- Do not place devices on unstable surfaces; keep liquids away from keyboards and laptops.
- Use surge protectors to guard against electrical spikes.
11.3 Key Security Features to Look For
- Encryption at rest (AES‑256) and in transit (TLS/SSL).
- Granular permission settings (view, edit, comment).
- Activity logs and audit trails.
- Compliance certifications (ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR).
- Enforced 2FA for all users.
12. Applying the ICT Systems Life‑Cycle (Syllabus 7)
- Analysis – Identify user requirements:
- Volume of data (GB/TB)
- Frequency of access & collaboration needs
- Internet bandwidth and reliability
- Security & legal constraints (e.g., student records)
- Budget (up‑front vs. recurring)
- Design – Draft a solution:
- Hybrid model (cloud for collaborative work, local NAS for large media)
- Folder structure, permission levels, backup schedule.
- Testing – Pilot with a small group:
- Measure upload/download speeds, sync reliability, permission accuracy.
- Simulate Internet loss to verify local fallback.
- Implementation – Roll‑out:
- Stage data migration to avoid bandwidth spikes.
- Train users on secure login, sharing, and safe‑use policies.
- Documentation – Record:
- Provider details, service agreement, data‑retention policy.
- Backup procedures and recovery time objectives (RTO).
- Evaluation – Review against criteria:
- Cost comparison (actual spend vs. projected).
- User satisfaction surveys.
- Incidents logged (security breaches, outages).
- Environmental impact report (energy use of local hardware vs. cloud provider).
13. Communication & Collaboration (Syllabus 6.4‑6.9)
- Email – Cloud services often integrate with webmail (e.g., Gmail) for sharing links and notifications.
- Netiquette – Use clear subject lines, respectful language, and consider file size limits when attaching files.
- Real‑World ICT Application Examples
- School Management Systems – Student records, timetables and parent communication stored in the cloud; accessible by staff, pupils and parents.
- e‑Learning Platforms – Course materials, assignments and feedback saved on Google Classroom or Microsoft Teams.
- Banking & Financial Services – Secure cloud vaults hold transaction logs and customer documents across branches.
- Online Booking & Ticketing – Event organisers store ticket PDFs and attendee lists in the cloud for instant distribution.
- Graphic Design & Video Production Studios – Hybrid approach: cloud for version control and client review; local SSD/NAS for high‑speed editing.
14. Audience Considerations (Syllabus 9)
When selecting a storage solution, think about who will use it and how:
- Teachers – Need easy sharing, permission control, and the ability to embed resources in lesson plans.
- Students – Require simple login, mobile access, and clear guidance on safe file handling.
- Parents & Guardians – May only need read‑only access to reports or homework links.
- IT Administrators – Require detailed audit logs, backup policies and the ability to enforce security settings.
15. Decision Checklists
15.1 When to Choose Cloud Storage
- Frequent access from multiple locations or devices (e.g., home‑learning).
- Collaboration is a core activity (real‑time editing, shared folders).
- Organisation wants to minimise on‑site hardware maintenance and physical security.
- Disaster‑recovery and data redundancy are high priorities.
- Internet connection is reliable and bandwidth is sufficient for typical file sizes.
15.2 When to Prefer Local / Physical Storage
- Working with very large media files (video production, CAD) that require high transfer speeds.
- Internet connectivity is unreliable, costly, or subject to data caps.
- Strict data‑sovereignty, confidentiality or legal requirements (e.g., pupil health records stored on‑site).
- Fixed, one‑off budget is preferred over recurring subscription fees.
- Need for total control over hardware specifications and physical location.
16. Social, Ethical & Environmental Impact (Syllabus 5)
- Social/Ethical
- Digital divide – learners in areas with poor broadband may be excluded from cloud‑based resources.
- Data sovereignty – storing data overseas raises questions about who can access it.
- Collaboration promotes teamwork but may reduce personal data‑management skills.
- Environmental
- Large data centres consume significant electricity, yet economies of scale often mean lower emissions per GB compared with many individual PCs and external drives.
- Using cloud storage can reduce e‑waste by extending the useful life of personal devices.
17. Summary
Cloud storage delivers flexibility, scalability, built‑in redundancy and collaborative features that suit modern, network‑centric learning and business environments. However, it depends on Internet connectivity, incurs ongoing costs and raises privacy/legislation issues that must be managed through strong e‑safety practices. Local or physical storage offers faster access, full control and independence from the Internet, but requires proactive backup, maintenance and security measures. By applying the ICT systems life‑cycle, conducting a risk assessment, and weighing social, ethical and environmental factors, students can make an informed decision about the most appropriate storage solution for any given scenario.