Mobile Cloud Computing

What is Mobile Cloud Computing?

Mobile Cloud Computing (MCC) combines mobile computing, cloud computing, and wireless networks to offer robust computational resources to mobile users, network operators, and cloud providers. It facilitates the execution of rich mobile applications on various mobile devices. In MCC, data storage and processing occur outside the mobile devices, leveraging IT architecture for numerous benefits, such as:

• Prolonged battery life.
• Enhanced data storage and processing capabilities.
• Seamless data synchronization through a centralized “store once, access anywhere” approach.
• Better reliability and scalability.
• Simplified integration.

Factors Driving Mobile Cloud Computing Adoption

1. Customer Trends and Expectations:
Customers demand seamless access to applications or websites from any location, anytime. MCC fulfills this need by enabling users to increase productivity, even during transit.

2. Improved Connectivity:
Technologies like 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi, and small-cell networks provide enhanced connectivity, facilitating cloud computing on mobile devices.

3. Technological Enablers:
The adoption of MCC is supported by advancements such as HTML5, CSS3, mobile hypervisors, cloudlets, and Web 5.0 standards.

Key Characteristics of MCC Applications

1. Cloud Infrastructure:
Utilizes specific architectures for data storage and access.

2. Local Data Caching:
Allows temporary data storage locally to improve performance.

3. User Accommodation:
Flexible development to cater to diverse user requirements.

4. Accessibility:
Mobile cloud applications are accessible via desktops and mobile devices alike, opening access to a broad range of services.

How MCC Works

Mobile cloud applications are hosted on remote data centers managed by third-party providers. These data centers handle:

• Data storage.
• Compute cycles.
• Uptime, integration, and security.

Applications can function effectively online but require periodic updates. They do not occupy permanent storage on devices, offering a desktop-like experience coupled with the portability of web applications.

Types of MCC Applications

1. Mobile Cloud Applications:
In this model, processing and storage occur in the cloud, while mobile devices serve as the presentation platform. For effective functioning, smartphones should have:

• Recognizable operating systems.
• Features like video calling and conferencing.
• Support for installable applications.
• Messaging capabilities.
• Reliable and persistent internet connectivity.

2. Mobile Web Services:
Mobile devices using web services often consume more network traffic, introducing challenges like mismatched resolutions or device-specific limitations. Features enabling mobile web services include:

• Web service systems integration.
• Support for external in-built services.
• REST protocol compatibility.
• XML-RPC protocol support.
• User role authentication capabilities.

Benefits of MCC

• Cost efficiency for businesses.
• Enhanced portability ensures ease and efficiency.
• Users unlock more features on their devices.
• Developers gain access to broader markets.
• Increased participation by network providers.

Challenges of MCC

1. Low Bandwidth:
Mobile devices rely on radio waves, which are limited compared to wired networks, leading to slower access speeds.

2. Security and Privacy:
Mobile devices are more vulnerable to threats, given the inherent challenges of wireless networks in detecting and managing risks.

3. Service Availability:
Network issues such as outages, overcrowding, or weak signals hinder accessibility and performance.

4. Cross-Platform Compatibility:
MCC must adapt to various operating systems like iOS, Android, and Windows. Techniques like IRNA (Intelligent Radio Network Access) help manage performance across platforms.

5. Energy Consumption:
Mobile devices, being less powerful, face battery drainage issues. MCC increases battery usage, making long-lasting battery solutions crucial. For smaller code alterations, offloading can consume more energy than local processing.