Quick answer

Cloud computing delivers resources such as servers, storage, databases, and software over a network on demand. Customers use provider-managed infrastructure instead of owning every physical system themselves.

Original example

Store a file without running a server

A small team can place project files in a cloud storage service and let the provider operate the physical disks, network, and availability systems. The team still decides access permissions and how the files are used.

Cloud service models

Infrastructure services provide virtualized computing resources; platform services provide managed environments for building applications; software services deliver complete applications to users.

Cloud does not mean data exists nowhere. It runs on physical systems in provider-operated or privately operated facilities, with responsibilities divided between provider and customer.

Common misunderstandings

  • Cloud computing still depends on physical computers and networks.
  • Moving to cloud services does not remove the customer's security, privacy, backup, or access-control responsibilities.

Related answers

Sources

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