Everything goes in cycles. Computing used to mean terminals tethered to a mainframe. “Personal” computers became popular, at least in part, because they gave people personal control of their computing. The whole “cloud” computing thing is just the revenge of the mainframes IMO.

There are advantages to be sure. Microsoft would probably rather run Office in their data centers and rent time than sell individual copies. Individuals for the most part don’t have to worry about installations,  backup etc. Even from an environmental standpoint it’s probably a big win. Personally I don’t care for it. A big part of it is that, like Netherworks, I too prefer to control my own resources. A lot of people find the utility computing model is just the ticket though. If you’re on the go, being able to access everything from anywhere on a lightweight device is ideal.

The very concept of “personal computing” was bound to change though as the concept of what “personal” means is changing. Old notions of privacy and individuality are giving way to the socially connected, instant meme producing, always plugged into the hive mind 21st Century shuffle. If you want a picture of the future, imagine a like button stomping on a human face for ever. Please close my bunker door as you leave ÷)

"Democracy is a pathetic belief in the collective wisdom of individual ignorance." - H. L. Mencken