Cloud Computing Operating Systems: What Options Are Available

Cloud computing operating systems are a type of lightweight software that provides data storage and access to web applications from a remote server. They are operating systems designed to manage the operation, execution, and data processing of virtual machines, virtual servers, and infrastructures that operate remotely.

Cloud computing operating systems allow users to access a service with pre-installed applications through their chosen web browser. They usually include a variety of applications that enable working directly from anywhere at any time.

Cloud computing technology is on the rise. This discipline specializes in application and system development that make our personal and work lives easier. It is an area with much experimentation ahead and requires specialized professionals.

What Are Cloud Computing Operating Systems?

As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, cloud computing operating systems are software designed to operate in virtualization and cloud computing environments.

The operating system in the cloud manages the operation, execution, and processes of virtual machines, virtual servers, as well as the remote execution of all types of virtual infrastructures.

Cloud computing operating systems are also often called virtual operating systems.

Cloud computing operating systems primarily manage the activity of one or more virtual machines within a virtualized environment. Depending on the environment and the cloud services used, their functionality can vary.

This can be illustrated by examples such as Windows Azure or Google Chrome OS. These types of cloud computing operating systems provide end users with pre-installed applications and services accessed through an internet browser. Moreover, they are among the most popular examples of cloud operating systems.

Examples of Cloud Computing Operating Systems

Launching any cloud computing operating system usually takes just a few seconds. Any user can use this type of software to improve or optimize workflows, to work from lighter access points or equipment that does not support the load required to run the system and the applications the user needs.

Let's now look at some examples of cloud computing operating systems. Some will likely seem familiar, others less so, but all are leaders in using cloud technologies to improve processes and make life easier for their users.

Microsoft Azure

Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing service created by the computer giant for building, testing, and deploying and managing all kinds of applications and other services from a data center.

It is a specialized cloud operating system that manages all resources available to users.

Additionally, it features a backup system to protect data from potential system issues.

Google Chrome OS

Chrome OS is a cloud-based operating system developed by Google and introduced in 2011. Initially, it was aimed at mini-laptops and supported by companies like Samsung and Acer.

It is based on the open-source Chromium OS project and includes a built-in media player and file manager.

Additionally, it supports remote access to native applications and the desktop. It is one of the first cloud computing operating systems.

Amazon AWS

Amazon simply had to be included in the list of cloud computing operating systems. Indeed, AWS is considered one of the pioneers in cloud computing.

Thus, Amazon AWS (Web Services) is a collection of services that use this technology to provide remote access to various types of applications.

Netvibes

Netvibes is one of the key cloud computing operating systems designed to work in any browser.

This system provides a dashboard for everything: news, social networks, favorite websites, applications, and smart devices.

Additionally, its customizability makes it even more powerful, as features are unique and adapt to the environment.

OSv

OSv is an open-source operating system designed for high performance and ease of management in cloud environments.

It offers a simple API to manage any aspect that works from any virtual machine. Linux applications can be run on OSv, even though it is not entirely based on Linux.

Ghost

Ghost is one of the most popular cloud computing options among users. It offers file storage services for both individuals and businesses.

The applications ensure personal security when moving from one device to another and can be distributed directly from websites via communication channels.

Joli OS

The Joli OS cloud operating system is an easy-to-use web desktop environment for multiple users and browsers.

This web-based operating system comes with a set of interesting office applications that make it more versatile. It is a multi-user system and a platform-independent.