The Intersection of Cloud Computing and Smart Cities: An Exploratory Review of Applications and Challenges in Deployment

Abstract

This research addressed the intersection of cloud computing and smart cities. Cloud computing and smart cities are two areas that are seeing fast expansion and have the potential to transform the manner in which we work and live. Cloud computing facilitates the supply of on-demand computing resources, including storage, networking, and software, via the internet; and smart cities use technology to improve the quality of life for inhabitants and the efficiency of municipal services. According to the findings of the research, cloud computing has the potential to be used in diverse applications within smart cities. Some examples of these applications include smart transportation, smart lighting, smart buildings, smart waste management, smart healthcare, smart parking, and smart citizen services. This study also drew attention to a number of obstacles that need to be overcome before cloud computing may be properly implemented. Concerns around data security and privacy, network and connection, interoperability, dependency on internet access, cost and scalability, and the need for successful cooperation between municipal authorities, technology suppliers, and residents are examples of these problems. The findings of the research indicate that the potential for cloud computing to significantly improve the capabilities of smart cities should not be underestimated, despite the fact that there are considerable obstacles to be addressed. It will be vital for municipal authorities, technology providers, and residents to collaborate to overcome the problems and establish successful methods for adopting cloud computing in smart cities if this promise is going to be realized.