Definition of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing refers to the on-demand delivery of computing services—such as servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence—over the internet, known as 'the cloud.' This model allows users to access and manage resources remotely without owning physical infrastructure, enabling flexible and efficient IT operations.
Key Components and Models
Cloud computing operates through three primary service models: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provides virtualized computing resources; Platform as a Service (PaaS) offers development platforms; and Software as a Service (SaaS) delivers applications over the internet. Deployment models include public, private, and hybrid clouds, each balancing accessibility, security, and control.
Practical Example
A common example is using Google Drive for file storage and collaboration. Instead of storing documents on a local hard drive, users upload files to the cloud, where they can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, shared with others, and automatically backed up, demonstrating seamless data management without physical hardware.
Importance and Applications
Cloud computing is used for its scalability, allowing resources to expand or contract based on demand; cost efficiency by reducing upfront hardware investments; and global accessibility, enabling remote work and collaboration. It supports applications in business analytics, web hosting, and AI development, while providing disaster recovery through data redundancy.