A Beginner’s Guide to Cloud Computing in Nigeria

Have you ever heard of cloud computing and wondered what it is and how it can benefit you? Well, you’re in luck because we’ve got a beginner’s guide that will break it down for you in a way that’s easy to understand. So let’s dive in!

What is Cloud computing?

Cloud computing refers to delivering computing services, including servers, storage, databases, networking, Software, analytics, and intelligence over the Internet to offer faster innovation, flexible resources, and economies of scale.

Imagine accessing your data and applications from anywhere, anytime, with an internet connection. That’s the power of cloud computing! No more lugging around heavy laptops and worrying about losing important files. With cloud computing, you can easily access everything you need from anywhere.

Types Of  Services Offered by Cloud Computing

The following are the types of services provided by cloud computing.

1. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

   This service provides access to virtualized computing resources such as servers, storage, and networking. Nigerian Data Center Limited, NDC, is an example of an organization that provides IaaS services such as virtual private servers, cloud storage, and cloud networking.
   

2. Platform as a Service (PaaS)

   This service allows developers to build, test, and deploy applications without managing the underlying infrastructure. Andela, for example, provides a platform-as-a-service (PaaS) that allows businesses to hire and manage remote software development engineers. 

3. Software as a Service (SaaS)

This service provides access to software applications like CRMs hosted and managed by the cloud provider. Software as a Service (SaaS) -Paystack is another Nigerian-based company that offers an online payment gateway that serves as a software-as-a-service (SaaS) for businesses in Nigeria and other African countries.

4. Storage as a Service (STaaS)

This service provides scalable and flexible storage options such as object and block storage.

5. Backup as a service (BaaS)

This service provides automated Backup and recovery of data to ensure data availability and integrity. e.Stream Networks is an example of a Nigerian company that offers Backup as a Service (BaaS) to ensure that customer data is safe, secure, and always available. 

Benefits of Cloud Computing in Nigeria

1. Space-saving

   Reduces the need for servers, freeing up space for other uses.

2. Cost-effectiveness

Provides access to tools and services that may not be affordable.

3. Scalability

Allows businesses to scale up or down resources as needed.

4. Improved accessibility

Allows employees to access files and applications from anywhere with an internet connection.

5. Access to the latest technology

 Provides access to Software without the need to buy them.

6. Enhanced security 

Data and applications are stored in secure, managed data centres.

Applications of Cloud Computing in Nigeria

1. Business process management

One of the critical Applications of cloud computing in Nigeria is in the area of Business Process Management. Companies in Nigeria, such as Konga, an online retail store, and Jumia, an e-commerce platform, leverage cloud-based solutions to streamline their operations and improve efficiency.

They use various Software, such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, to manage their inventory, financials, and other business-critical processes.

2. E-commerce

Another important Application of cloud computing in Nigeria is in the field of e-commerce. Nigerian businesses such as Payporte and DealDey use cloud-based platforms to build and manage their online stores, process payments and handle logistics. These platforms allow them to scale up and down their resources as needed and pay only for what they use.

3. To automate processes

Applications of cloud computing also include the use of Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions such as customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. Nigerian businesses such as Flutterwave, a financial technology company, and Interswitch, a digital payment company, use these systems to better manage customer data and improve operations.

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4. To store patient information

The healthcare sector is also beginning to leverage the Applications of cloud computing in Nigeria. Medical facilities such as First Consultant Medical Centre, a private hospital in Nigeria, use cloud-based electronic health record (EHR) systems to store patient information, share data with other providers, and improve patient outcomes.

5. Education

Education is also one of Nigeria’s critical cloud computing applications. With the increasing popularity of e-learning, Nigerian schools and universities such as Covenant University, a private christian university and the University of Lagos, a public university, use cloud-based learning management systems to deliver online courses, track student progress, and provide educational resources.

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6. Storage

Lastly, cloud computing applications in Nigeria include using cloud-based storage and backup solutions for businesses and individuals. Nigerian companies such as Terragon Group, a digital marketing firm, and eStream Networks are providing these solutions to help ensure the security and availability of essential data and files, even during a disaster. 

They use various services like Backup as a Service (BaaS) to automatically back up customers’ data and ensure it is safe, secure, and always available.

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How to Get Started with Cloud Computing

1. Choose a cloud computing provider

Many cloud computing providers, including Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. Do your research and choose the one that best fits your needs.

2. Determine your need

Think about what you need from cloud computing and what you want to achieve. This will help you determine the right cloud computing solution for you.

3. Create an account

Once you have chosen a provider, you will need to create an account and start setting up your cloud computing environment.

4. Migrate your data

You will need to migrate it to the cloud to start using it. This cannot be very easy, so read the instructions carefully or get help from a professional.

5. Start using it

Once you have set up your cloud computing environment, you can start using it! You can store your data, access your applications, and collaborate with others.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cloud computing is a powerful technology that can help you save money, work more efficiently, and protect your data. 

Whether you’re a student, a small business owner, or an entrepreneur, this beginner’s guide to cloud computing should give you a good idea of what it is and how it can be helpful.

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Chidinma Enujioke

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