Outlook: cloudy
Hanover’s CeBIT exhibition has the latest on cloud computing
WORDS | ASIF HASHMI
DITCH THE SHADES BEFORE HEADING OFF TO HANOVER and the world’s biggest business computer show, CeBIT 2010 (2-6 March): there’s a big cloud hanging over proceedings. But don’t worry, it’s not the credit crunch – more like the next big tech innovation.
Cloud computing has been heralded as the next big thing for a while but this year it comes of age. By creating secure access to data and programs from everywhere, the cloud provides the infrastructure needed for what the CeBIT boffins call ‘Connected Worlds’.
What this means in practical terms is that instead of storing everything on your desktop computer, all your precious data goes to huge industrial-strength servers run by companies like Google and Amazon. OK, there are security issues, but with 24/7 access to your files, you don’t have to worry if your netbook crashes: it’s in the cloud. Result? Less fluff, and a boost to your productivity.
Elsewhere, CeBIT’s vast shiny halls of serious fun will host 400,000 or so visitors, over 4,000 state-of-the-tech gadgets, 30 elite geek speakers and interactive displays showing off the latest in streaming music, 3D, telemedicine and home networking. Anyone involved in IT or technology needs to be there. 2-6 March 2010, Hannover Messe Exhibition Grounds, Hanover. Full ticket booked in advance €71; day ticket €33. www.cebit.de
TRAVEL SPY
Voyager’s visual guides
Hats of Kazakhstan
a) Ak kalpak hat
b) Takiya skullcap
c) Tymak fur hat
Photography: © Alamy / Lonely Planet
See these and other traditional garments at The Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 44 Samal-1, Almaty
