Glossary

What is Cloud Computing?

In simple terms, Cloud computing is an advanced version of grid computing and works on the principle of shared computing resources. In cloud computing, the word cloud stands for the internet. Therefore, it is a kind of computing technology aided by the internet. Cloud computing enables the delivery of various services such as servers, storage, and applications to users through the internet.

Cloud computing refers to a network of computers that perform all the tasks assigned to them. Cloud computing lets the user log into a web-based service that hosts all the programs vital for completing the job. The cloud computing service provider handles everything related to emailing to word processing including complex data analysis programs. Cloud computing service providers charge clients for maintenance and management of their data inputs.

A major benefit of cloud computing is that it helps in achieving scalability and focuses on sharing of resources. It boosts the effectiveness of the shared resources. It is common for cloud resources to be not only shared by a number of users but to be dynamically allocated based on the requirement. A cloud computing environment enables users to retrieve and update their data from a single server without buying licenses for different applications.

Types of Cloud Computing

1.Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)- A software-as-a-service solution is a way to create and access business computing resources in the cloud. It provides networking capabilities, computing resources (virtual or dedicated), and storage space. IaaS leads you to the greatest degree of flexibility and control over your IT infrastructure.

2.Platform as a Service (PaaS)- The PaaS model removes your responsibility for managing underlying infrastructure (such as hardware and operating systems), allowing more time to focus on applications, and helps you be more efficient because the procurement of resources isn't a concern.

3.Software as a Service (SaaS)- With a SaaS offering, you don't have to worry about managing the service - the service provider runs and manages it. SaaS is often used to refer to web-based email (such as the popular Gmail).

The cloud computing system offers the most flexible and quick solutions to the most complex business issues, benefitting all business sizes. It proves especially profitable for middle and small businesses.

Cloud computing has a centralized server administration system to balance and adjust client demand and supply, track traffic, and avoid congestion. On the other hand, cloud computing can also be renamed green computing since it contributes to efficient power and energy conservation.