Cloud Computing

What is cloud computing?

Cloud Computing refers to the provision of computing resources over the Internet. It consists a network of remote servers which users can access in order to store, manage and process data. The users do not need to physically access or own the server, yet they have remote access to it. Examples: Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services

Is cloud computing a new technology per se? In other words, what are the unique technology features of cloud computing, if any?

Prior to Cloud Computing, the client server architecture was used where clients would have to connect to the server to request the server for some data. Cloud Computing builds on existing technologies like distributed systems, grid computing and remote access via the Internet. In the 2000s, various cloud computing services started to emerge (e.g. Google, Amazon) However, it is unique as users can access resources on demand and share them with multiple users. It makes uses of data centre, networks, and visualization.

What are the three major cloud service models?

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): this provides resources like servers, storge and networking. The usres manage the OS, applications and data, while the cloud provider handles the physical infrastructure.

Platform as a Service (PaaS): platform for developers to build, deploy, and manage applications. provided with tools, frameworks, and runtime environments. Users do not need to worry about the physical infrastructure informed.

Software as a Service (SaaS): software applications over the internet. Users access these applications via a web browser without managing any infrastructure

Name at least 3 real-world domains where the application of cloud computing was (or can be) very enabling and effective.

Online Data Storage + Back Up and Recovery e.g. Google Drive

Big Data Analysis

Antivirus

What is the economic/business model of cloud computing?

Real World Applications of Cloud Computing

Whats is Cloud Computing?

Cloud Computing?