The new Windows 8 download is a big change in the way we use personal computers. The installation of Windows 8 is done online. Is it a cloud computing operating system? Does this make you nervous and want to call your computer repairs professional?

The new Windows 8 download has many features that will make us want to use more cloud computing. There are elements of the operating system that make it appear as if it is cloud-based. This is not completely true. Cloud computing is a very broad term, and in actual fact, it is not a very good description at all. Here is a look at cloud computing, the new Installation of Windows 8, and the issues related to cloud computing, online computer support, for the operating system.

Understanding cloud computing. The term used to describe what is going on when we use files and applications not stored on our computer is not a very good one. Cloud computing implies we do not know where those applications and files are. This is not the case. Take the case of Facebook, for example. Facebook is more than a website, it is an online application we access through our browser. Our files are not stored on our computer, and they are stored on the Facebook servers. We know where they are, or at least who has the responsibility to look after them. This is the same with our personal banking and email. Essentially, cloud computing is server-based computing.

Online applications and more power. We will install Windows 8 from the Internet. It is a download with a load of computer support. Applications are already available online, but what makes Windows different is the fact that it will integrate those web-based applications directly into the operating system. Facebook is already making an application for the new operating system. It uses the same language as the applications that run in our browsers, without needing the browser. This means those applications will use more power from the computer instead of what is limited to the browser.

More devices. The new operating system will be the same on any device that can run Windows. This means we can use a Windows Smartphone with the same operating system as the one on our desktop or laptop at home or in the office. It makes sense to use cloud-based computing services. Change one file when you are using your Smartphone, and it will be updated on the server you are using. When you access that file on your laptop it will be the latest version. No need to keep copying files to yourself.

System update. The new operating system will not need updating as it did in the past. This does not mean the operating system will not improve. It will automatically update each time you turn it on. The operating system is still stored on your personal device.

What does all this mean? Summing up, the operating system will encourage and take advantage of ‘cloud’ computing, and yet it is not a cloud-based operating system because it is stored on your computer. At the same time, it will fix itself, and update all the time online, meaning less need for computer repairs. We all know that means it will be easier to use.