1) What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is the delivery of computing resources like servers, storage, databases, and software over the internet. It allows people and organizations to access powerful tools on demand without owning physical infrastructure, making it flexible, scalable, and cost-efficient.
2) Is Cloud Computing a New Technology Per Se?
It is not entirely new since it builds on older ideas like virtualization and distributed systems. What makes it distinct is the way these technologies are packaged: resources can be set up on demand, scaled easily, paid for based on usage, and accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
3) The Three Major Cloud Service Models
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provides raw resources such as virtual machines and storage.
Platform as a Service (PaaS) offers a ready-made environment for developing applications.
Software as a Service (SaaS) delivers complete applications online, such as Gmail or Salesforce.
4) Real-World Domains Where Cloud is Enabling
Healthcare uses the cloud for storing patient records and running AI analysis. Finance depends on it for fraud detection and trading systems. Education uses it for online learning platforms, and entertainment relies on it for streaming and gaming.
5) Economic and Business Model of Cloud Computing
The cloud works like a utility service where users pay only for what they use. This reduces upfront costs, shifts spending from capital to operational expenses, and helps both startups and large enterprises scale efficiently.