The cloud is a global network of computer servers that can be used and access remotely to store and manage data, run applications or deliver content or a service such as streaming videos, webmail, or social media. The cloud simply means to access and store files and data over the internet as opposed to from a local or personal computer. The TL Tech smart home system is designed to protect your data and does not use cloud computing, instead a small low cost hub is installed locally that manages and controls the data from your devices.