Cloud9 is a controlled development environment that allows users to run, debug or deploy applications from anywhere they can access the internet. The application uses standard HTML, JavaScript and CSS so any computer and modern web browser can work with it. Professional editing features are built in, including syntax support for many of the most popular programming languages. Multiple people can work on the same project at the same time with full read and write access. Code analytics give the user real time updates when errors are found. Cloud9 integrates with GitHub to allow users to easily update their repositories without navigating away from the application. Groups and teams can manage their coding projects within Cloud9 by sorting which projects are being worked on by each individual. Chat is also built in so users can discuss issues and progress while they work.

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Cloud9 was founded by Ruben Daniels and Rik Arends. The application offers some exciting features for programmers however some users found that the error identification tool did not work as intended. Areas were singled out as errors when the code had no issues running on other platforms. The run button caused a similar malfunction, stating that there was an error but providing no further documentation or options to help resolve the issue. Despite a few bad experiences, Cloud9 has received primarily positive reviews and responses.

Cloud9 is appealing for a number of reasons. Users can access their work from anywhere as long as they have internet access. This gives coders just one more way to make the best use of their time, even when they are not in the office. The team and group features are also very attractive for businesses and organizations. Users can work together on projects and assign specific projects to individuals within their team.

Cloud9 has a very friendly personality that shows through as the user works. Even though the site uses some appealing colors and stylishly modern graphics, it never leaves the realm of professional. The user interface is well organized and allows the user to jump right into their work. The dark background peeks through from behind the user interface, maintaining the pleasant contrast found throughout the site. Cloud9 offers users a smooth, obstacle-free experience that can help them work more efficiently.

A new use can register for a Cloud9 account by filling out the short form presented in the upper, left hand corner of the homepage. The form asks for a username and email address. Users can also click one of the two square icons below the form to sign in with a BitBucket or GitHub account. Those who fill out the form are advised that an activation email will be sent to their inbox. This must be accessed to complete registration and begin using Cloud9.

Cloud9 provides users with two membership options. The first is a free account that includes access to public projects and FTP features. Team collaboration tools will be added to the free account in the near future. Free accounts are used to create Open Source projects. The Premium account costs $15 per month and includes private projects. New users are given access to a free membership and can upgrade at any time.

Cloud9 is a helpful tool for programmers that need more flexibility in their work environment. The application is entirely web based so the user can access their work from anywhere with internet access. Although the feature list is rather sparse now, it looks promising with the future addition of team collaboration tools. Cloud9 is ideal for individuals and groups with coding projects to complete.

• Users can register and sign in with a GitHub or BitBucket account
• All work can be accessed from any computer with an internet connection
• Real time code analysis advises the user on possible errors as they work
• Cloud9 integrates easily with GitHub
• Built in chat feature allows users to converse while they work

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