Cloud computing is the new buzz word, but how many people actually know what it is?  About 97% of Americans are using the cloud, according to Citrix, although half of Americans aren’t even aware that they are already using it.  A more interesting figure is that 22% of Americans admit to lying about their knowledge of cloud computing!

So what exactly is the cloud?  According to CBS News, the cloud refers to storing data on servers that are accessed via the internet.  In short, if you have a Facebook page or have visited YouTube, you have accessed the cloud.  The cloud can take a number of different structural forms for businesses, but the basic principle is that you have access to all of your stored data any where that you can access the internet.

For the Millennial Generation, using the cloud is second nature.  Social media is almost entirely cloud-based.  For this reason, the survey in the Citrix article paints the wrong picture.  Citrix wants you to think that half of America doesn’t know what’s going on and is out of touch with new web developments.  In reality, the buzz word ‘cloud’ is used to explain a concept that is truly second nature for younger generations.  For Americans under 30, having data available anywhere you can access the Internet is not a new concept.  This might be why there is so much confusion over “the cloud”.  Being a buzz word, perhaps many of those surveyed expect the cloud to be something new and different other than the way they have always used their computers.