Cloud Computing: Challenges and New Developments

Cloud Computing is both, a combination of software and hardware based computing resources delivered as a networked service. In a cloud computing environment, individuals and businesses work with applications and data stored and/or maintained on shared machines in a web-based environment rather than physically located in the home of a user or a corporate environment. Use of cloud services creates a growing interdependence among both public and private sector entities and the individuals served by these entities. The present paper reviews on characteristics, applications, challenges and new development in cloud computing. It seeks to contribute to a better understanding of the emerging threat landscape created by cloud computing, with a view to identifying avenues for risk reduction.