As we continue our exploration of cloud computing, we've hit a critical topic: connections. By that we mean the connections that will be required to make cloud computing a reality - whether that be connections between partners to provide a full end-to-end solution, industry standards connecting different vendors' products or the connections between the network and the apps. Understanding how these connections work is essential in reaching a successful cloud computing model. It's also a complex and little-discussed topic.

In this expert roundtable, Qwest cloud experts and Nemertes Research Senior Analyst Ted Ritter answer the following questions:

• What is the role of standards in the development of cloud services?
• Is the Internet the ideal platform for the cloud?

During the downturn, you streamlined operations to make them truly lean. Now, with economic conditions brightening, you don't want to take your eye off the ball. But, during all this belt-tightening, did you let things go that exposed you to risk?

Network security often lands on the back burner when the going gets tough. We hear about security risks every day and understand what could happen...but dismiss the likelihood it will happen to us.

The truth is, the risk is just too high and now is a good time to evaluate your security strategy. But how do you know what's right for you?

Let's break down the options:

Do it yourself: Hire or train staff to secure your business through tools such as firewalls and web filters.

Pros: No worries about handing ov

When it comes to being customer-centric, are you plugged in to customer needs or tuned out? Your network could be to blame.

What tools does your company use to be more 'customer-centric?' No doubt, most enterprises would mention their CRM system, their call center, sales force automation...

True, these tools are important, but just as the world's top chef can't be successful without flour and salt, these sophisticated apps provide limited value without the right foundation - a converged voice and data network.

So often overlooked when it comes to customer experience, your network is the keystone to a truly customer-centric organization. Converged networks integrate disparate systems, allow data to be collected no matter where it originates, enable that data to be analyzed, and provide new levels of flexibility for a swift response to cus