What is Cloud Computing? Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

In simpler terms, the "cloud" doesn't refer to something floating in the sky. Instead, when you use cloud services, you're accessing remote servers, powerful mainframe computers housed in large data centers, through the internet. The cloud computing model gives you, the customer, greater flexibility and scalability compared to traditional on-premises infrastructure.

What is cloud computing?

Cloud computing is the delivery of computing resources—like servers, storage, databases, networking, software, and analytics—over the internet. Instead of buying and maintaining physical hardware, businesses and individuals can access these resources on-demand and pay only for what they use. It enables faster deployment, scalability, and cost efficiency.

Types of Cloud Computing

1. Infrastructure as a Service ( IaaS ) 

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is a type of cloud computing that gives people access to IT tools like virtual computers, storage, and networks through the internet. You don’t need to buy or manage physical hardware. Instead, you pay only for what you use.

2. Platform as a Service ( PaaS )

Platform as a Service (PaaS) is a cloud computing model where a third-party provider offers the software and hardware tools needed to develop, test, and run applications. This allows users to focus on building their applications without worrying about managing servers or infrastructure.

3. Software as a Service (SaaS)

Software as a Service (SaaS) is a way of using software over the internet instead of installing it on your computer. The software is hosted by a company, and you can use it just by logging in through a web browser. You don’t need to worry about updates, maintenance, or storage the provider takes care of all that.

4. Function as a Service (FaaS)

Function as a service (FaaS) is a cloud-computing service that allows customers to run code in response to events, without managing the complex infrastructure. You just write the code, upload it and the cloud provider runs it only when it's needed. You pay only for the time your code runs.

Types of Cloud Deployment Models

1.Public Cloud :  Services are provided over the public internet and are available to anyone. Examples include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. Public clouds offer scalability and flexibility but may raise security concerns for sensitive data.

2.Private Cloud : This is a dedicated cloud environment for a single organization, either hosted on-premises or by a third-party provider. Private clouds offer enhanced security and control over data but may involve higher costs and limited scalability.

3.Hybrid Cloud : Combines both public and private clouds, allowing data and applications to be shared between them. This approach offers flexibility and scalability while maintaining control over sensitive data.

Leading Cloud Service Providers :

• Google Cloud
• Amazon Web Services (AWS)
• Microsoft Azure
• IBM Cloud
• Alibaba Cloud
• Dell Cloud
• Oracle Cloud

Who Uses Cloud Services?

There are several well-known organizations across the world that have already migrated to the cloud environment. Some of the examples include:

• Google Docs, Microsoft 365 : Users can access Google Docs and Microsoft 365 via the internet. Users can be more productive because they can access work presentations and spreadsheets stored in the cloud anytime from anywhere on any device.
• Email, Calendar, Skype, WhatsApp : Emails, calendars, Skype and Whatsapp take advantage of the cloud's ability to provide access to data remotely so users can examine their data on any device, whenever and wherever they want.
• Zoom, Microsoft Teams : Zoom is a cloud-based software platform for video and audio conferencing that records meetings and saves them to the cloud, letting users access them anywhere and at any time. Another common communication and collaboration platform is Microsoft Teams.
• AWS Lambda : Lambda lets developers run code for applications or back-end services without provisioning or managing servers. The pay-as-you-go model accommodates real-time changes in data usage and data storage. Other examples of major cloud providers that also support serverless computing capabilities include Google Cloud Run Functions and Microsoft Azure Functions.
• Salesforce: Salesforce is a cloud-centric customer relationship management platform that helps businesses oversee their sales, marketing and customer service operations.
• Dropbox : This is a cloud storage service that lets users store files online and access them from any device. Dropbox also supports file sharing and collaboration.

Characteristics of cloud computing :

• On-demand self-service: Users can provision computing resources as needed without requiring human interaction with service providers.
• Broad network access: Services are accessible over the network through standard mechanisms, enabling usage on various platforms such as mobile phones, tablets, and laptops.
• Resource pooling: Cloud providers serve multiple customers using a multi-tenant model, pooling resources to serve various users dynamically.
• Rapid elasticity: Resources can be elastically provisioned and released to scale rapidly based on demand.
• Measured service: Cloud systems automatically control and optimize resource usage by leveraging a metering capability, providing transparency for both the provider and consumer.

• Data Storage and Backup: Storing large amounts of data securely and backing it up automatically.
• Web Hosting: Hosting websites and applications with scalable resources based on traffic.
• Development and Testing: Providing environments for software development and testing without the need for physical infrastructure.
• Big Data Analytics: Analyzing large datasets using cloud-based tools to gain insights and support decision-making.
• Machine Learning: Leveraging cloud resources to train and deploy machine learning models efficiently.

• Cost Savings: Reduces capital expenditure on hardware and infrastructure, allowing pay-as-you-go pricing models.
• Scalability: Easily scale resources up or down based on demand without significant investment.
• Accessibility: Access services and data from anywhere with an internet connection, promoting remote work and collaboration.
• Disaster Recovery: Simplifies backup and recovery processes, ensuring business continuity.
• Automatic Updates: Cloud providers manage updates and security patches, allowing organizations to focus on their core business.

Disadvantages of using cloud computing :

• Downtime : As businesses increasingly rely on third-party cloud vendors, providers can face overload or technical failures that cause outages. Even a simple internet disruption can prevent access to apps and servers. This downtime often halts operations until services are restored.
• Security: Even top providers with advanced security cannot guarantee complete protection against breaches. Sensitive data stored externally always carries risks, especially in public clouds. Hackers, careless users, and system loopholes can expose organizations to threats.
• Limited control : Cloud services remove much of the traditional IT maintenance but also reduce backend control. Companies only access provider tools to manage apps, services, and data. The underlying infrastructure remains restricted, limiting flexibility and customization.
• Vendor Lock-in : Switching cloud providers is often difficult due to compatibility, cost, and integration challenges. Businesses may struggle to migrate apps and data smoothly across platforms. This creates dependency on a single vendor, reducing long-term flexibility.
  

Thu Sep 11, 2025