What is cloud computing?
Cloud computing is the delivery of on-demand computing resources and services over the internet. It is like renting computer power and storage online. It's special because you can get as much or as little as you need whenever you want. This helps businesses save money and work faster because they don't need to own and manage all the technology themselves.
Is cloud computing a new technology per se? In other words, what are the unique technology features of cloud computing, if any?
Cloud computing isn't totally new, but it's a smart combo of existing tech. The special stuff is: you can get computer things on the internet whenever you want, without talking to people. These computer things can be shared by many, so they're not wasted; you can make them bigger or smaller as you need. You only pay for what you use; it's like using pretend computers inside real ones; things can happen automatically; lots of people can use it safely at the same time. So, while the parts aren't new, how they're put together is pretty cool.
What are the three major cloud service models?
1. Software as a Service (SaaS): You use software applications hosted on the cloud, like email or office tools, without worrying about the underlying tech.
2. Platform as a Service (PaaS): Developers get tools to build and manage applications without caring about the hardware and software setup; it's like a ready workspace.
3. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): You rent virtualized computing resources, such as servers and storage, to build your own IT environment, like a customizable cloud computer.

3 real-world domains where the application of cloud computing was (or can be) very enabling and effective.
1. Businesses: Allowing easy and cost-effective software and resource access.
2. Healthcare: Enabling secure data storage, remote collaboration, and telemedicine.
3. Education: Providing online learning platforms and collaborative tools for students and teachers.