Potential and Impacts of Cloud Computing Services and Social Network Websites (STOA Cloud Computing - Study)

Abstract

January 2014 – IP/A/STOA/FWC/2008-096/Lot4/C1/SC8 Cloud Computing and Social Network Sites (SNS) are among the most controversially discussed developments in recent years. The opportunities of using powerful computing resources on demand via the web are considered as a possible driver for the growth of the European economy. However, there are also critics arguing that economic, social and technical risks prevail or even dismiss the potentials of Cloud Computing and SNS. This project sheds light on these aspects and analysed more specifically, the latest technological and economic developments, driving factors and barriers in Europe, the main actors and their respective interests, the impacts on citizens, business and public administrations and, a broad range of technical, economic, cultural, legal, regulatory issues and their impacts. It showed that at the moment, there is a chance to achieve multiple Cloud Computing and SNS related goals simultaneously. There are no contradictions between assuring European citizens, secure, privacy aware, legally certain and fair use of Cloud Computing and SNS and in increasing the competitiveness of European ICT industries. Moreover it is possible to exploit the potential of Cloud Computing and SNS to the benefit of both the European economy and society at large. Based on this a set of options for European policy makers grouped into four themes with in total 16 options was derived. Make security a commodity 1. Support the development of open and secure software and hardware and encryption methods. 2. Encourage the use of checklists and security certifications. 3. Assess the economic viability of large hardware security modules. 4. Initiate a dialogue on the structure and governance of the Future Internet. Establish privacy as a location advantage 5. Proceed with the modernization of data protection. 6. Establish the principles of security and privacy by design. 7. Support the creation of a European Data Protection Board. 8. Ensure the extraterritorial application of European data protection law. Build a trustworthy environment for digital business and living 9. Stipulate the setting of minimum requirements for contracts. 10. Support the standardization of Acceptable Use Policies and Service Level Agreements. 11. Eliminate jurisdictional uncertainty. 12. Support the development of Cloud specific certifications. Create an inspiring ecosystem for ICT industries 13. Encourage the creation of European market players. 14. Support standardization and interoperability. 15. Empower people across all strata of society. 16. Reconsider current broadband strategies