When in need of data storage, convenient file sharing capabilities, or expedient IT consultations, individuals and businesses often get nervous when considering the prospect of using cloud systems.

Have you had trouble accessing websites like Wikipedia, Reddit, or Boing-Boing? Have you noticed that brazen, black rectangle centered on Google’s homepage? There’s no need to reboot your computer or fiddle around with your wireless modem because there’s absolutely nothing wrong with your CPU or internet connection. The problem is in Washington D.C. where lawmakers are trying to step on the toes of the United States Constitution.

 Many people, companies, and technology experts think cloud computing is a trend or simply a "thing of the future."

Are you extremly sad to learn that you missed the cloud computing lunch and learn hosted by NSK Inc. in October? If so, you're in luck because on December 7th, 2011 at 11:30AM NSK Inc., in conjunction with Axcient and the Boston Business Journal, will be presenting another free lunch and learn that will teach the basics of cloud computing solutions. 

Google+ started out with a bang, boasting 25 million users before the social network was even open to the public. Now, after establishing itself as a true player in the social networking realm, and with 45 to 50 million users to boot, Google+ is opening up its doors to businesses. Called Google+ Pages, the profiles are similar to the Facebook Page platform, except that Google+ Pages will be integrated into Google search results. Additionally, page owners can manage their followers using “circles,” which allows them to target content such as updates, photos, and videos to certain demographic groups. So how do you create a Google+ brand profile?

1. Sign into your personal or work-related Google account and go to http://www.google.com/+/business/.
2. Here, Google lets you select which category your business fits into. Your options are:

• Local Business or Place (examples: hotels, restaurants, places, stores, service, etc.)
• Product or Brand (example: apparel, cars, electronics, financial services, etc.)
• Company, Institution or Organization (example: companies, institutions, organizations, non-profits, etc.)
• Arts, Entertainment or Sports (example: films, TV, music, books, sports, shows, etc.)
• Other—if your business does not fit into any other category