Definition and essential characteristics of cloud computing Flashcards
What are the two main advantages of cloud computing over traditional local server hosting?
Flexibility and Scalability. Cloud computing allows businesses to easily adjust their resources based on current needs without significant upfront investments, and to scale up or down as demands change.
Define ‘On-Demand Self-Service’ in cloud computing.
It means that customers can automatically provision computing resources like server time and network storage as needed without requiring human interaction with the service provider.
Give a real-world example of ‘Rapid Elasticity’.
An e-commerce website automatically adding more server capacity during a holiday sale to handle increased traffic, and then reducing capacity after the sale ends.
What does ‘Resource Pooling’ refer to in cloud computing?
It refers to the cloud provider’s ability to serve multiple customers using a shared pool of resources, which are dynamically allocated and reallocated according to demand.
Explain ‘Measured Service’ in cloud computing with an example.
It implies that cloud services are metered, meaning customers pay only for the resources they use, similar to how utility bills work (like paying for the electricity you consume).
Describe ‘Broad Network Access’ in the context of cloud computing.
It means that cloud services are available over the network and can be accessed through various devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, enhancing accessibility and convenience.
How does cloud computing contribute to the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of deploying applications?
By reducing the need for upfront capital investment in hardware and software and providing tools and services that streamline development, testing, and deployment processes.
What is infrastructure?
Software infrastructure is the foundational framework that supports the creation, deployment, and management of software applications. It includes essential tools, servers, databases, and middleware that enable software to function reliably and efficiently
Flexibility and Scalability
Cloud computing offers significant flexibility and scalability compared to local servers. This means businesses can adjust their resources (like bandwidth and storage) quickly based on their current needs without significant upfront investments or long-term commitments. This adaptability is essential in a fast-paced, digitally-driven business environment.
Ease of Access and Customization:
Cloud services allow users to access and customize applications from anywhere with an internet connection. This level of accessibility supports remote work and global operations, making it a cornerstone for businesses aiming for agility and responsiveness.
Efficient Application Deployment:
Deploying applications in the cloud can be more efficient and cost-effective than traditional methods. Maintenance and operational costs are generally lower, and cloud platforms often provide robust tools and services to streamline development and deployment processes.
NIST’s Definition of Cloud Computing:
The definition by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) highlights the on-demand, scalable, and shared nature of cloud computing resources, emphasizing the ease of management and the minimal need for direct interaction with service providers.
