Cloud Computing Research

Cloud computing is a model where computing services such as storage, servers, software, and networks are provided over the internet. Instead of managing physical hardware, users access resources from remote data centers maintained by providers.

Cloud computing is not completely new but developed from earlier technologies like virtualization and distributed systems. What makes it unique are several key features:

• On-demand self-service
• Broad network access
• Resource pooling for multiple users
• Rapid elasticity (scaling up or down quickly)
• Measured service (pay only for what is used)

The three service models in cloud computing are:

• Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Offers fundamental computing resources such as virtual servers, storage, and networks.
• Platform as a Service (PaaS): Provides environments and tools for developing and deploying applications.
• Software as a Service (SaaS): Delivers fully functional applications over the internet, such as email or office tools.

Cloud computing has been effective in many real-world areas, including:

• Healthcare: Managing patient records and enabling telemedicine.
• Education: Supporting online classes, digital libraries, and collaboration tools.
• Entertainment: Enabling video and music streaming platforms.

The economic model of cloud computing is based on pay-as-you-go. Instead of making large upfront investments in hardware, organizations pay only for the resources they consume. This approach shifts expenses from capital costs (CapEx) to operating costs (OpEx), giving businesses flexibility and predictable spending.