Cloud Computing

Cloud computer services are computer resources that are accessed remotely, via the Internet, but which were once commonly accessed locally. The cloud can be divided into cloud storage, in which customer files or other data are stored remotely, and cloud computing, involving remote processing. A common characteristic of the latter category is that the provider’s resources are shared dynamically among different customers; this distinguishes cloud computing from simple leasing of physical web servers (see below at Cloud Models). Use of the cloud can mean reduced risk of data loss, reduced upfront investment costs, and simplified software setup; the cloud has, for example, made it easier to launch high-tech companies by reducing startup costs. On the other hand, cloud users must ensure that they understand the ...