What are the key features of Cloud Computing?
The key features of cloud computing include on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service. These features enable users to access a shared pool of configurable computing resources, such as networks, servers, storage, applications, and services, which can be provisioned quickly and easily over the internet.
Long answer
Cloud computing is a paradigm that allows users to access a wide range of computing services and resources over the internet. Its key features are:
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On-demand self-service: Users can provision computing resources as needed without requiring human interaction with service providers. This enables quick deployment and scalability by eliminating the need for manual intervention.
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Broad network access: Cloud services are accessed over the internet through various devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets. This accessibility allows users to connect from anywhere at any time, promoting mobility and flexibility.
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Resource pooling: Computing resources in the cloud are pooled together to serve multiple users simultaneously. Physical and virtual resources, such as storage, processing power, memory, and bandwidth, are dynamically allocated based on demand. This efficient sharing maximizes resource utilization.
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Rapid elasticity: Cloud systems provide the ability to scale up or down resources according to current requirements. It enables automatic allocation or deallocation of resources on-demand to handle workload fluctuations promptly. This elasticity allows organizations to optimize costs while ensuring optimal performance levels.
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Measured service: Cloud usage is typically metered and billed based on specific parameters like data storage, processing power utilized, bandwidth consumption, or active user accounts for specific periods. This pay-per-use model offers transparency and cost control by accurately tracking resource utilization.
These key features make cloud computing an attractive option for individuals and organizations seeking scalable infrastructure solutions without massive capital investments or management complexities associated with traditional IT environments.